Tag Archives: Ambrotypist

C. M. Van Doren

Ambrotypes, , ,

1857-1858       Rooms over the City Bank of Eames, Allen & Co., Ottawa, Illinois.

C. M. Van Doren was recorded in one  advertisement that ran from October 6, 1857 to October 2, 1858 in The Ottawa Free Trader (Ottawa, Illinois).  New Picture Gallery.  The lovers of fine arts, and the public generally, are invited to examine specimens now on exhibition at the new Rooms just opened over the City Bank of Eames, Allen & Co., north of the Court House, under the supervision of James Marston.

The undersigned having purchased the interest of Mr. Marston, in the above business, is now prepared to furnish Ambrotypes in the highest style of the art, warranted in every instance to give satisfaction or no charge made.  The services of Mr. Marston have been secured for a short time, and those acquainted with his skill will need no further assurance for getting truthful pictures.  A share of the public patronage is solicited.  Ottawa, October 3, 1857.  C. M. Van Doren.

C. M. Van Doren is not recorded in other photographic directories. James Marston is recorded in other photographic directories as being active in Ottawa, Illinois .

E. M. Van Aken

Ambrotypes, Daguerreotypes, Photographs, , , ,

1856-1858       Rooms over the Post Office, Lowville, New York.

1859                Rooms in the New Brick Block of J. O’Donnell & Co., Lowville, New York.

E. M. Van Aken is recorded in six advertisements and six announcements in The Lewis County Banner (Lowville, New York.)  The first advertisement ran from September 3 to 17, 1856.  Notice The Subscriber Would Give Notice that he is now engaged in fitting up a Portrait Gallery, In this village, which will be completed this week, expressly for producing the Very Best Results in all the different styles of Ambrotyping, Daguerreotyping and Photographing.  Rooms over the Post Office, Third Floor.  E. M. Van Aken.  Lowville, August 26, 1856.

The first announcement appeared on September 10, 1856.  We would call the attention of our readers to the advertisement of E. M. Van Aken’s Daguerrean Rooms to be found in another column.  Give him a call.

The second advertisement ran from September 10, 1856 to January 28, 1857.  Van Aken’s Picture Gallery, at Lowville.  Rooms Over The Post Office. 

Land of the North! How little ye know,

They power of they Arts, whose glories I sing;

For the’re wafted to all by breezes that blow,\

From perennial lands of soft, gentle spring.

The Goddes of science has stooped in her flight,

To deposit with us a gift fair and bright!

And what do you think her majesty gave?

The “Camera Tube,” that’l picture the brave,

The young, or the old, the lovely and fair;

Oh! Really good gracious! What a blessing it are.

Daguerreotypes bright,

And Photographs right,

That index the face as truly as life;

With Ambrotypes new,

So faithful and true,

To picture husband, son, daughter and wife.

Secure the shadow, er’e the substance fade;

For time will cast or’e all a deeper shade.

And life-like ties will soon be broken,

And farewell words yet to be spoken.

Van Aken’s rooms are just the place,

To get a picture of your face.

They’ll keep all right forever,

And ner’e will dim, no never!

Come and see;

The sight is free,

Call All, E. M. Van Aken, Artist.  Lowville, Sept. 10, 1856.

The third advertisement ran from January 28 to November 11, 1857.  Van Aken’s Picture Gallery.  All kinds of Photographs, Ambrotypes, and Daguerreotypes taken at this establishment with accuracy, and dispatch.

Pictures of every description copied into any of the above styles, and diminished or enlarged to any desired size.  E. M. van Aken, Artists.  Lowville, Jan. 27, 1857.

The second announcement appeared on March 4, 1857.  E. M. Van Aken came into our Office a few days since, and presented to the fraternity an Ambrotype of the craft, at work, for which he will receive their thanks.  It is a fine Picture, but we need not have said this, for he does not let anything go out of his Gallery, excepting it gives ample satisfaction.

The third announcement appeared on May 27, 1857.  Pictures!  100 Lithographs of W. Root Adams, Principal of Lowville Academy, for sale-at Van Aken’s Picture Gallery, at 25 Cts., each.  E. M. Van Aken, Artist.  Lowville, May 18th, 1857.

The fourth announcement appeared on November 18, 1857.  See the new advertisement of Mr. Van Aken, on the third page.  He has an elegant suite of rooms, where all the branches of his art are carried out in perfection.  His taste and execution in all kinds of picture taking, are not to be surpassed, even in cities.  He has also reduced the price of photograph.  So remember, “Tribute to whom tribute is due.”

The fourth advertisement ran from November 18, 1857 to January 20, 1858.  Van Aken’s Photograph, Ambrotype, And Melanotype Gallery.  Great reduction in the price of Photographs! 

Until further notice is given, the Large Sized, or “Whole Plate” Photograph will be made at this establishment, at the following rates:—For the first Picture $2.00—any number after the first, 25 cents each.

The great advantage which the Photograph has over every other style of picture, is that from a single sitting, they may be multiplied to any number with perfect uniformity, and perfection.  They are not reversed, it gives a positive picture, with lights and shadows conformable to nature.

The Ambrotype which has entirely superseded the Daguerreotype, is made upon fine plate glass.  They are perfectly distinct in any angle of light, and are exceedingly brilliant.  The intensity and clearness, combined with the richness of light, and accuracy of the middle tints, give them a superiority over all other pictures in the light and shade.

The Melanotype is made upon Sheet Iron, and resembles in appearance, the Daguerreotype; yet, like the Ambrotype, they are perfectly distinct in angle of light.  They are very convenient for inserting into Lockets, Pins, Bracelets, Rings, &c.

Copies made from pictures of every description, and enlarged or diminished to any desired size. E. M. Van Aken, Artist.  Lowville, Nov. 18, 1857.

The fifth advertisement ran from February 18 to April 14, 1859.  New Picture Gallery.  The subscriber, in returning his grateful acknowledgements to the ladies and Gentlemen of this place, for past favors, begs most respectfully to announce, that he has fitted up a Gallery in the New Brick Block of J. O’Donnell & Co., Where he has every facility for taking the following styles of Pictures, from the smallest Miniature to Life Size, Viz.:  Ambrotypes, Melanotypes, Photographs, plain, Photographs, beautifully colored in Oil, Water Colors, or India Ink.  Also, A New Style Of Pictures, On Enameled Cloth, to be sent in letters, without casing, saving postage.  Those wishing Life Size Portraits, In this section of the State, will not be obligated to go to our large cities, as heretofore, but can be accommodated with a correct and faithful likeness, At Lowville, N. Y.

In prices, I also engage to conform to right, reason, and to please all who may favor me with their patronage.

All are invited to call and examine my Pictures, and accept the thanks of the proprietor. E. M. Van Aken, Artist.  Lowville, Feb. 1859.

The fifth announcement appeared on October 5, 1859.  List of Premiums Awarded by the Lewis County Agricultural Society, at the Annual Fair, held at the Village of Lowville, Sept. 22d, 23d, and 24th….Discretionary Premiums….

Best sample of Stereoscopic and Photographic Views of the North Woods, E. M. Van Aken,  $2.00

The sixth announcement appeared on December 7, 1859.  Capt. John Brown.  I have received from Thadeus Hyatt, New York, a Photograph and Autograph of John Brown, the original delivered to him by the hand of the old hero himself; a copy of which is in the hands of Mr. Van Aken, the artist, who will supply the demand at the same price charges in New York, One Dollar, and pay over to the family of John Brown seventy-five cents of every dollar so received.  J. A. Northrop.  Lowville, Dec. 5, 1859.

E. M. Van Aken is not recorded in other photographic directories.

George A. Vallet

Ambrotypes, Daguerreotypes, Photographs, Stereoviews, , , , , ,

1857-1859       72 North-Front Street in J. D. Wilson’s New Brick Building, Kingston, New                              York.

George A. Vallet was recorded in nine advertisements and one announcement in The People’s Press (Kingston, New York).  The first advertisement ran from March 20, to September 11, 1857.  George A. Vallet & Co.’s Daguerrean Rooms, Colored Daguerreotype Likeness, Ambrotypes, Crayon Pictures, Photographs, Stereoscopes & Chromotints.  The subscribers, successors to R. H. Hill, would respectfully inform the inhabitants of Kingston, and all those visiting this place, that they continue the Gallery at 72 North-Front street, in J. D. Wilson’s New Brick Building, where has been elegantly fitted up large and spacious rooms with all the improvements of the age, and with the Largest Sky-Light between New York and Buffalo.  They will always be happy to wait upon those wishing a beautiful and colored Life-Like Miniature.

You are invited to call and examine their Specimens and mode of Operating, and, if suited, to sit for your Likeness.  Persons will not be expected to take their Miniature unless entire satisfaction is given; but if the Likeness in taken from the Room, it will not be exchanged for less than fifty cents.  The subscribers’ long experience in the Daguerrean Art, gives them the fullest confidence that they will be able to please all who favor them with a call.  All work done at this establishment warranted fadeless and of the best order.  Being permanently located, they is desirous of building up a reputation for Style, Cheapness and Durability.

Prices—From $1 to $15, according to the size and style of Case or frame; in Lockets $1.  Those having poor impressions can have them retaken for 75 cents.

Ambrotypes—These are a new and beautiful style of miniatures, and by far excel anything heretofore made in light and shade; before made in light and shade; they are only to be seen to be admired.  Price the same as Daguerreotypes.  They are made on pure crystal glass, and are more durable than any other miniature, as no acid will remove or injure them.  They are taken in much less time than other pictures, so bring on the children.

Stereoscopes.—These are produced by making two pictures at different angles, and after being placed in a stereoscope case a most wonderful effect is produced and the subject stands out like life itself.

For Sick or Deceased Persons, A House or Landscape, where it is necessary to remove the Apparatus, $5.

Gold Lockets always on hand for sale Cheap.

Hours for Operating, from 8 A. M. to 5 P. M.  Children should be brought in between 10 and 3 o’clock.

All Daguerreotypes taken at this Gallery after this date may be re-taken in the natural colors for the mere cost of the materials, as soon as the process is made public—the subscriber having secured the exclusive right for Ulster county.

Full Instructions in the Art, given on reasonable term, to those wishing to engage in the business.

Stock.—All kinds of Operator’s Stock furnished at New York prices.  Geo. A. Vallet & Co. 

The second advertisement ran from March 27, 1857 to December 29, 1859.  Geo. A. Vallet & Co.’s Daguerrean Rooms, North Front Street, Kingston, Above Wilson’s Hat & Cap Store.

The third advertisement ran from September 11 to December 4, 1857.  Pictures For The Million.  Daguerreotypes at Reduced Prices.  The undersigned, at their Daguerrean Rooms, No. 72 North Front Street, are now taking superior Ambrotypes at the exceedingly low price of 50 Cents, put up in cases of the most unique and recent styles.

Pictures are taken in all kinds of weather, from 8 A. M., to 6 P. M., and executed in all cases so as to give entire satisfaction.

N. B.  Pictures taken for sick or disabled persons at their residences.  Geo. A. Vallet & Co. Kingston, Sept. 9, 1857.

The fourth advertisement ran from December 11, 1857 to April 2, 1858.  Observe.  Ambrotypes, Large Size, For Fifty Cents, case Included At G. A. Vallet & Co.’s., 72 North-Front St.  Citizens And Strangers, your attention is respectfully invited to the following remarkable reduction in prices.  (Come and examine, and see for yourself.)  Large sizes, twice the size ever offered before, for 50 cents.  Extra large size or ¼ for $1.50.  Double extra size for $3.00, and all others in proportion.

If you would secure a likeness of your family or friends, you know have a rare opportunity to do so.—What a treasure is a life-like miniature of a deceased and departed friend; which, when looked at, call to mind all the associations incident to human life—besides being a valuable keepsake, for a memento that the person would not part with for any consideration.  Come and see, and have your own taken and bring your friends with you.

Pictures taken as well in cloudy as fair weather; and no picture offered unless entire satisfaction is given.

N. B.  Pictures put in Lockets for 50 cents.  Geo. A. Vallet & Co.                           

The fifth advertisement ran from February 26 to April 2, 1858.  A Great Gift!  Come and see for Yourselves.  A Splendid large size paper Mache Case And Picture, valued at $15, to be given for a dollar, at Vallet & Co.’s., 72 North Front Street.

Each purchaser will receive a ticket to draw the case; to be drawn for in one month.  There will be no risk in trying, as you will receive full value in the Picture you purchase, and a ticket for the great gift.

Pictures taken from 50 cts. to $5, and all warranted to give entire satisfaction.  Hours for operating from 9 o’clock, A. M., to 5 o’clock, P. M.   Geo. A. Vallet & Co.  Kingston, Feb 22, 1858.

The sixth advertisement ran from April 9, 1858 to December 29, 1859.  Vallet’s Gallery, (Formerly Hill’s,) Wilson’s Building, 72 North Front St., Can supply in an instant an imperishable image of husband or wife, child or parent, or friend, which may, by the accident of life become the fondest treasure and memento of the heart.  It is the veritable reflection of the original, truthful as He who said “let their be light” painted by light itself.

The firm of Geo. W. Vallet & Co., was dissolved in March and the interest of my partner purchased by me.  I am now alone, and will spare no exertion to secure for the prosecution of the Art which has been my study and undivided pursuit for years, every discovery made by science.  The ordinary Daguerreotype has been succeeded by the Ambrotype.  Melainotype And Photograph.

These are all decided advances in faithful portraitures and their beauty as mere pictures.  Specimens of the several styles can be seen at my Gallery, to which I gave a general public invitation.

The prices vary with the size and style from $5 down to 50 cents, and the Cases are of a rare variety, from a plain morocco to the richest pearl and tortoise.

Hours of operating, sunny and cloudy days being equally favorable now, from 8 A. M. to 5 P. M.—Terms reasonable for landscapes or pictures of the dead.

Vallet’s Gallery has been completely refurnished, and by the opening of an ample side light, the facilities for taking brilliant pictures are much increased.  George A. Vallet.  Kingston, April 1st, 1858.

The seventh advertisement ran from July 23, 1858 to December 29, 1859.  Improved Ambrotype.  The undersigned has discovered a new process of Ambrotyping, by which the picture is Thrown Out From A Grained Ground and represented in a perfectly Life-Like Position.  He would therefore invite all persons interested in this art, to call and examine specimens of his work.  He feels confident that his discovery is superior to anything ever before offered in the Daguerrean art For Representing Life Itself in the Picture.  The price of pictures taken by the Improved Process, is from $1.00 upwards, according to size and style of cases.  G. A. Vallet.  No. 72 North Front St.

The announcement appeared on May 13, 1859.  Geo. A. Vallet is decidedly one of the best Photographist that we know of.  A visit to his picture rooms, 72 North-Front street, will convince a judge of the fine arts of what we say.  Mr. Vallet has recently taken some likenesses of our distinguished citizens in the very best and most lifelike manner.  He takes an old fashioned daguerreotype in all the beauty and clearness ever performed by the crack artists; his ambrotypes are exquisite, but his photographs on paper are in fact superabundantly excellent.  If you don’t believe all this go and see.

The eighth advertisement ran from September 16, to December 29, 1859.  Something New At Vallet’s Gallery, 72 North Front St.  Griswold’s Patent Ferotype Pictures, Which far excel all others now taken are warranted to stand all kinds of climate and weather.  They are only seen to be admired.  Call and see, and you will soon be satisfied that they are just what you want.  Geo. A. Vallet.  Kingston, Sept. 10, 1859.

The ninth advertisement ran from November 3 to December 29, 1859.  One Dollar Photographs, One Dollar Photographs, One Dollar Photographs,

Fifty Cent Ambrotypes, Fifty Cent Ambrotypes, Fifty Cent Ambrotypes,

At Vallet’s First Premium Picture Gallery, 72 North Front St., Kingston, N. Y.

George A. Vallet is recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry as being active in Kingston, New York in 1858-1859.

William S. Unthank

Ambrotypes, , ,

1859                            Address Unknown, Richmond, Indiana.

William S. Unthank was recorded in twice of the same reprinted announcement.  The first appeared on May 17, 1859 in The Evansville Daily Journal (Evansville, Indiana).  The Richmond (Ind.) Battle Axe notices the melancholy fact that Wm. S. Unthank, formerly an ambrotype artist at Richmond, has become insane, and is now an inmate of the State Asylum at Indianapolis, in consequence of the conduct of his son, who is charged with robbery.

The second in the Dayton Daily Empire (Dayton, Ohio) on May 21, 1859.  The Richmond (Ind.) Battle Axe notices the melancholy fact that Wm. S. Unthank, formerly an ambrotype artist at Richmond, has become insane, and is now an inmate of the State Asylum at Indianapolis, in consequence of the conduct of his son, who is charged with robbery.

William S. Unthank is recorded in other photographic directories as being active in Richmond and Indianapolis, Indiana.

Henry W. Turner

Ambrotypes, Photographs, , ,

1859                480 Pennsylvania Avenue, Near Third Street, Washington, D. C.

Henry W. Turner was recorded in one advertisement that ran from April 23 to October 11, 1859 in the Evening Star (Washington, D. C.).  New Photograph And Ambrotype Gallery, 480 Pennsylvania Avenue, near Third Street.  Ambrotypes, Ambrotypes, only 25 cents, Put up in handsome case.

Photographs, Photographs, only One Dollar for the finest copy, and 25 cents for each subsequent one.

Good Pictures taken in any weather.

Remember the Number 380 Pennsylvania avenue, near 3d street.

“Secure the shadow while you have the substance.”                                                

Henry W. Turner is recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry as being active in Washington, D. C. in 1860.

Mr. Tucker

Ambrotypes, ,

1855                262 Ninth street, three doors from First Avenue, New York, New York.

Mr. Tucker was recorded in one advertisement in The New York Herald (New York, New York) on October 20, 1855.  An Immense Business For $100.—A Young Man with the above amount, will be taken as an equal partner by an ambrotypist artist, who intends travelling and wants assistance.  This is a new art that will supersede daguerreotyping.  Immense profits can be realized, as there is scarcely any opposition.  Call or address a note to Mr. Tucker, 262 Ninth street, three doors from First avenue.

Mr. Tucker is not recorded in other photographic directories without more information.

Tucker & Perkins

Ambrotypes, Photographs, , , , ,

1858-1859                   Address Unknown, Augusta, Georgia

Tucker & Perkins (Isaac Tucker & J. W. Perkins) were recorded in one announcement and two advertisements.  The announcement appeared in the Edgefield Advertiser (Edgefield, South Carolina) on December 22, 1858.  Art In Perfection.  As illustrated at the Photographic Gallery of Tucker & Perkins in Augusta, Ga.

Happening to call in at the photographic gallery of Messrs. Tucker & Perkins the other day, we cannot delay to notice and applaud its pleasing attractions.  These gentlemen have certainly carried their art to a high degree of perfection.  With the best of materials, and the most skilful of operators, their likenesses are truly to be prized; and when colored by the tasteful hands of their very superior painters, they are invaluable as keepsakes and mementos.  None should fail to avail themselves of the chance here offered to procure accurate and life-like copies of their relatives and friends.  Apropos, we observe in the Southern Banner the following merited encomium of this firm, from one who knows a good thing whenever and wherever he sees it.  Hear what D. Redmond says of them:

“One of the most attractive place in our quite city, is the Gallery of Messrs. Tucker & Perkins, the unrivalled Photographic artist.  Here the lover of the “human face divine,” can behold it in all stages, from the cherub infant, scarcely able to “sit alone,” to the hoary and venerable grand-sire of “three score years and ten”—and in all styles of art, from the dingy, dim and distorted Daguerreotype of ten years ago, to the soft, clear Ambrotype, and radiant and life like colored Photograph of to-day.  Of the beauty and perfection of these latter portraits—the full size Photographs—no description can convey an adequate idea.  They have all the correctness and accuracy of detail of the best Ambrotype, with the delicate flesh tints and expression of the finest oil painting; and may, therefore, as portraits be considered altogether unrivalled.

It is absolutely impossible for even the most skillful portrait painter to produce a likeness as correct as the camera, which gives the actual reflection of the countenance, as in a mirror; and when this reflection, magnified up to the size of life, is colored after nature by such artists as Hunt, Freeman and Tomlinson, (now engaged with Messrs. Tucker & Perkins,) there is nothing left to desire by way of fine portraiture.

It has required years of patient investigation, labor and experiment, on the part of these gentlemen, to obtain their present enviable position in their beautiful art; but I am happy to say that they are now beginning to reap their reward.  Orders are pouring in upon them from every part of this and the adjoining States, and their pictures wherever exhibited, bear off the prizes from all competitors.  The skill with which they change a small, old and faded daguerreotype into an almost speaking, life-size Photograph, is truly marvelous; and the arrangement, coloring and general execution of their pictures, cannot fail to delight all lovers of the fine arts: many of whom, I know, are among your readers.  D. R.  Augusta, Ga.  Dec. 4, 1858.

The first advertisement appeared in the Edgefield Advertiser (Edgefield, South Carolina) on December 28, 1859.  Tucker & Perkin’s Great Southern Photograph & Ambrotype Gallery of Art, Augusta, GA., Is now open for the reception of visitors.  One of the Largest and Finest collections of Photographic Paintings in the world, on exhibition free to visitors.  We have exhibition Free to Visitors.  We have engaged for the season, the Best Corps of Photographic Portrait Painters Ever brought together in the United States.  Our superior Photographs will be sold at prices as low as those at the best Northern Galleries.

Tucker & Perkins’ Celebrated Ambrotypes Taken As Usual.

Stock, Chemicals, and materials Of Every Kind Furnished To The Trade at New York Prices!

Life Size Photographic Paintings Made From Small Daguerreotypes And Ambrotypes.

Our Patrons at a distance from Augusta, and desiring a Picture Copied, will please send it to our address, by Mail or Express, with a description of the color of the hair, eyes, complexion, etc., etc., of the original, and we will return it to them by express or otherwise, without the least injury, with a beautifully colored Photograph copy of any size they may specify.

P. S.—A fine assortment of Steroscopic Pictures and instruments for sale, at Ndew York Prices.

The second advertisement appeared on December 29, 1859 in The Abbeville Banner (Abbeville, South Carolina).  Tucker & Perkin’s Great Southern Photograph & Ambrotype Gallery of Art, Is now open for the reception of visitors.  One of the Largest and Finest collections of Photographic Paintings in the world, on exhibition Free to visitors.

We have engaged for the season, the best Corps of Photographic Portrait Painters Ever brought together in the United States.  Our superior Photographs will be sold at prices as low as those at the best Northern Galleries.

Tucker & Perkin’s Celebrated Ambro’ypes Taken As Usual.  Stock, Chemicals, and Materials Furnished To The Trade At New York Prices.

Life size Photographic Portraits made from small Daguerreotypes and Ambrotypes,

N. B.—Our patrons at a distance from Augusta, and desiring a Picture Copied, will please send it to our address, by Mail or Express, with the description of the color of the hair, eyes, complexion, etc., of the original; and we will return it to them by Express or otherwise, without the least injury, with a beautifully colored Photograph copy of any size they may specify.

P. S.—A fine assortment of Stereoscopic Pictures and instruments for sale, at New York Prices.

Tucker & Perkin’s Picture Frame Manufactory Is now in Full Operation.

Every description of Oval and Square Rosewood and Gilt Frames, made to order, at New York Prices.

Old Frames re Gilded and made to look as well as when they were new, at Very Low Rates.

Orders from country Dealers Solicited.  Dec. 22, 1859.

Tucker & Perkins are recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry as having dissolvedtheir partnership in April of 1853.

J. P. & J. A. Todd

Ambrotypes, Melainotypes, , ,

1858                Rooms over A. R. Orchard’s Store, Farnham Street, Omaha City, Nebraska.

J. P. & J. A. Todd were recorded in one advertisement that ran from July 3 to September 2, 1858 in the Bellevue Gazette (Bellevue City, Nebraska).  Sky Light Daguerrean Gallery Over A. R. Orchard’s Store, Farnham Street, Omaha City, N. T.  The Public are respectfully invited to call and examine our pictures.  Ambrotypes, Melainotypes. And pictures transferred to Leather, taken at reasonable prices.

Pictures taken in from 3 to 5 Seconds.  J. P. Todd, J. A. Todd.

J. P. & J. A. Todd are not recorded in other photographic directories as being active in Omaha City, Nebraska.  Recorded in Pioneer Photographers From The Mississippi To The Continental Divide is a listing for Jacob Todd who is listed as an ambrotypist in Knoxville Iowa in 1860…Jacob Todd, twenty two years old was enumerated twice in the 1860 federal census of Iowa. On June 6  J. P. Todd declared no property and was living at his parents’ home.  On July 6 Jacob Todd, twenty three years old was listed in Newton, Iowa as J. P. Todd, ambrotypist.  He was living in a boarding house or hotel and declared $200 in real estate and $75 in personal property.  It is possible there was a typo and one of the brothers in the census was J. A ?  (Speculation on my part, just thinking out loud.)  The quickest distance from Omaha City, Nebraska to Knoxville, Iowa is 157 miles.  The distance from Knoxville to Newton, Iowa is about 28 miles.

John Tobias

Ambrotypes, , ,

1859                426 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D. C.

John Tobias was recorded in one advertisement that ran from February 18 to December 28, 1859 in the Evening Star (Washington, D. C.).  Tobias, Optician, 426 Penn. Avenue, Bet 4½ And 6th Sts….Tobias’ Ambrotype Rooms, Where you will obtain a good likeness, equal to any other Establishment, and at moderate charges.                                                                                   

John Tobias is recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry as being active in 1860.

William W. Tileston

Ambrotypes, Daguerreotypes, Melainotypes, Photographs, , , , , , , , ,

1855                Main Street, over the Marble Depot, opposite Branch Bank, Evansville, Indiana.

1855-1857       Rooms in Dr. Bray’s Building, over the Old Post Office, Evansville, Indiana.   

1857-1859       First Street, opposite the Post Office, Evansville, Indiana

William W. Tileston was recorded in twelve advertisements and fifteen announcements in The Evansville Daily Journal (Evansville, Indiana).   Not included in this post are the advertisements and announcements while with Tileston Brothers and Tileston, Randall & Co. which have previously appeared.  The first announcement appeared on January 1, 1853.  Evansville Temple of Honor.—The regular meeting of this Temple are held every Thursday Evening over the Insurance office, Water st.  Officers for the present term—…W. W. Tileston…

The second announcement appeared on December 26, 1853.  County Convention.  The County Temperance Convention met pursuant to the call, at the Court-house, and organized by electing W. W. Tileston President, and L. Echelbery Secretary…

The third announcement appeared on February 24, 1855.  Returning Thanks, &c.  We have received a friendly letter from Mr. E. Z. Webster, the daguerreotypist.—As he wishes us to thank the citizens of Evansville for their kind patronage to him, &c., we cannot thank them better than by giving them that portion of his letter on the subject.  He says: 

Now Mr. Sanders, I wish you would do me a favor of thanking the citizens of Evansville and vicinity for their kindness and hospitality, together with the very liberal patronage which was extended towards me during my sojourn among them.  They may rest assured that I do fully appreciate each kind act, and if I have succeeded in my endeavors to please both patrons and friends, then in my dearest wish accomplished.  I hope at some future time to be able to reciprocate favors, and in the mean time I shall be most happy if I can be of any service to them either individually or collectively, and in this connection allow me to recommend to their kind consideration my friend, Mr. Tileston, who succeeds me in the rooms I occupied.  He certainly possesses all the necessary requirements for a successful daguerreotypist, and it only requires—what he certainly deserves, the patronage of those citizens who may require the services of a daguerreotypist, to make him become a successful operator.

This is testimony enough in behalf of Mr. Tileston, but we may add our own so far as to say, we have seen a number of pictures taken by him which we though fully as good as Webster’s own, and that is a high compliment.  Mr. T. can be found at the old rooms above the marble works, where he is daily turning out elegant likenesses.—Give him a call.

The first advertisement ran from March 22 to 29, 1855.  The Shadow And The Substance Of A Conversation.  The following Conversation took place at the Court House corner the other day, between Joe Shadow and Tom Substance:

Joe—I say, Tom,, when are you going around to Summers & Tilton’s gallery to have your Daguerreotype taken?

Tom—Well, I don’t know.  I must go soon, for they say that during the pleasant weather they are crowded all the time; and Saunders, of the Journal, say their pictures are about as good as Webster’s own.

Joe—I believe they are.  I saw some fine groups there the other day.  I’m going to have my whole family taken in a group.

Tom—I shall go the first fine day, for their pictures are so fine and lifelike.  I wonder where I can get a fine case-a first rate one.

Joe—Why, get it there they have a splendid new stock in a beautiful showcase, just received and in fine order, and expect to enlarge it soon.  They have now on hand a fine assortment of Gold Lockets, Miniature Pins, Paper Macia, Union, Moroco Gilt, Belt, Kossuth, Velvet and Jewel Cases, of all sorts and sizes, and they invite all to call and examine them whether they want to sit for a picture or not.

Tom—I was not aware the kept so fine a stock always on hand:  I shall go right down this morning.  But then I can’t have it taken this morning and I am sorry, for I may not have tine again for several days.

Joe—Why not go to-day?

Tom—It’s so cloudy: they can’t take pictures such weather as this.  Why, it’s raining now.

Joe—There’s where you are out of it.  It’s altogether a mistaken idea people have got into their heads that Daguerreotypes can’t be taken on bright sunny days.  They say they can take as good pictures in such weather as at any other time.  You see their large skylight makes the light always strong in the room, and if they don’t get you a first rate picture they don’t want you to take it.  They are always willing to try, and are determined not to let a picture leave their rooms that is not perfect.

Tom—Well, I shall go right down this morning, for the rooms are always comfortable, and it is a pleasant place to spend the time this dull weather.  But how is it that they carry on the Sign and Ornamental painting and the Gallery too?  They can’t attend to both, certainly.

Joe—Very easy.  You see the sign and ornamental branch is carried on under the immediate supervision of Mr. Summers, while Mr. Tileston turns his whole attention to the 

Tom—Well, I like that very much.  I should think they would go together very well.  Meet me at their gallery in half an hour

Joe—I will: good morning.

Tom—Good morning.                                               

The second advertisement ran from March 30 to May 24, 1855.  More About Elections.  Owing to the great excitement about the city election, and deep interest felt in the Prohibitory Law by all the great political parties, we deem it but our duty to say, that Summers & Tileston, having just received a new Camera direct from New York, are now prepared to take pictures in the best style from a small miniature to a large ½ size.  They are also prepared with the best light in the city for copying pictures.  They guarantee that no picture shall receive injury which may be left in their hands for the above purpose.

N. B.—Why is a Dogratyper taking a picture, like a gent sitting to a handsome gal?  Answer to be had by calling ay Summers & Tileston Gallery.  On Main st., opposite Branch Bank, over the Marble Depot.

The fourth announcement appeared on May 16, 1855.  Great Fire!  Nearly $100,000 Worth of Property destroyed.  About half past 3 o’clock yesterday morning a fire was discovered in the rear part of Anderson’s Barber shop, on the upper side of Main street between Water and First, and in a row of small frame houses…Messrs. Summers & Tileston’s Daguerrean Gallery and Paint shop, above the Marble Depot, were destroyed with every article in them.  No Insurance.  Loss probably $300….

The fifth announcement appeared on May 21, 1855.  Conflagration At Evansville, Indiana.—Below will be found a list of the principal suffers by the fire at Evansville on the 15th:…Summers & Tileston’s daguerreotype gallery were burned.

The third advertisement ran from May 21 to June 25, 1855.  Once More In The Field.  Summer & Tileston, after shaking themselves for a few days from the ashes of the late fire, have fitted up the sky-light rooms over Wm. Hughes’ store; corner of Main and second streets, where they will be happy to see their friends and old customers and the public generally, who wish to preserve the shadow of their friends, “ere the substance fades.”  Thankful for the liberal patronage extended to them for the past three months, they would respectfully solicit a continuance of the same.  Perfect pictures taken at the shortest notice, and entire satisfaction given, or no sale.                                          

The fourth advertisement ran from May 30 to June 29, 1855.  Not Left Town Yet.  Messrs. Summers & Tileston would respectfully inform their old friends and customers, and the public generally, that they have suspended their Daguerrean operations for a short time, for the purpose of fitting up rooms in Dr. Bray’s building, over the old post office.  Workmen are now busily engaged in putting up a mammoth sky light, etc., and in a few days we shall be better prepared for taking fine pictures than ever.                      

The fifth advertisement ran from June 9 to 25, 1855.  Poetry For The Million.

Summers & Tileston are the persons,

You’ll please to find them out;

There rooms are opposite the post office

Or somewhere thereabout.

They have a mammoth sky-light,

The largest in the city,

The only light adapted

For taking pictures pretty.

They take miniatures for lockets,

For breastpins and for rings,

Take copies from daguerreotypes,

Also from oil paintings.

Their pictures are uniformly low.

Their pictures hard to beat;

So pray, call at their gallery

And see there’s no deceit.

For life you know, is uncertain,

And death is very sure,

Therefore, ere the substance fades.

The shadow you should secure.

The sixth announcement appeared on June 13, 1855.  Once more In The Field.—Messrs. Summers & Tileston, as our readers know, were burned out by the late fire, and lost everything they had in their rooms, and nothing insured.  Although thus deprived of almost everything but their energy, they did not “give it up so,” but at once set to work preparing new and far superior rooms to those they formerly occupied.  They are now located in Dr. Bray’s building opposite the Post office, in the most central part of the city, and very convenient to the ladies.—They have fitted up their rooms very neatly and are now prepared to take likenesses all kinds of weather, in the best style, and at low prices.  We hope they will receive an extensive patronage in view of their late losses, renewed expenses, and more particularly because they take just as good Daguerreotype likenesses as are made in the West.

The seventh announcement appeared on June 23, 1855. The Sun Beam.—This is the name given to Summers & Tileston’s new Daguerrean Gallery. By a lady.  They have accepted the compliment, and “The Sun Beam Gallery” will soon be known as the place to obtain good likenesses.  The proprietors have reduced their prices, and are now making some of the best Daguerreotypes ever taken in this city.  Call and see their new rooms and specimens.

The sixth advertisement ran from June 23 to October 18, 1855.  New Gallery, New Name, And New Prices!  The Sun Beam Gallery!  Messrs. Summers & Tileston have now fully completed their Daguerrean Rooms in Dr. M. J. Bray’s buildings, on First street, opposite the post office, and are now ready to receive visitors and to take pictures in the latest and most approved style.  Having fitted up our rooms with the eye to comfort, they are neat, cool and airy, while we have a mammoth sky-light, which enables us to take picture that will compare favorably with any in the West.—Therefore we feel confident of giving perfect satisfaction in all cases, which we guarantee, or no sale.  Please call and see us at the Western Sun Beam.

N. B.—Pictures taken for one dollars.                                              

The eighth announcement appeared on September 27, 1855.  Dissolution Notice.  The co-partnership heretofore existing between Summers & Tileston is this day dissolved by mutual consent.  The business will be continued by W. W. Tileston, who is authorized to settle the business of the late firm.

A Card.  The undersigned would take this method of returning his sincere thanks to the public for the liberal patronage extended to the late firm, and hopes that by giving his personal attention exclusively to the business to merit a continuance of the same.  W. W. Tileston.

The ninth announcement appeared on October 16, 1855.  List of Awards at the First Annual Fair of the Vanderburgh Agricultural and Horticultural Society…The Premiums are awarded by the several Committees as follows:  Class 21. 

Best Daguerreotypes—W. W, Tileston.

The tenth announcement appeared on November 23, 1855.  Billy Tileston and his partner are now taking some beautiful Daguerreotypes at the Sun Beam gallery.  Drop in, and you can have the opportunity of seeing yourselves as others see you.

The seventh advertisement ran from October 20, 1855 to April 25, 1857.  Daguerreotypes Taken At The Sun Beam Opposite The Post Office.  Having made an entire change in my Mammoth Sky Light, by which I am enabled to take much finer pictures than heretofore, so that I am now prepared to take pictures of all sizes that will compare favorably with any taken in the West.

I have also associated with me for a short time Mr. J. Walmsby, who is an operator of many years experience, by which arrangement, one, or both of us, may always be found at the rooms, ready to take pictures.

Remember the place opposite the Post Office.

N. B.  We are also prepared to go out and take likenesses of corpses at short notice.  W. W. Tileston.

The eighth advertisement ran from February 8, 1856 to January 3, 1857.  Ambrotypes Taken At The Sun Beam!  Having gone to a very heavy expense in learning the process, and in fitting up my room for taking Ambrotypes.  I am now prepared to put up in the finest style any sized Ambrotypes, from a one-ninth to one-half size.  The Ambrotype is far superior to the Daguerreotype in tone and beauty, having none of the glare of the Daguerreotype plate, and can be seen in any light.  We also take two pictures at one sitting, a positive and a negative picture, and when held to the light it is perfectly transparent.  The Ambrotype are durable, being, when finished, entirely air and water tight, and can be taken in all kinds of weather.

Time for adults for a sitting from 10 to 30 seconds; children from 3 to 10 seconds.  Please call and see specimens.

P. S.—daguerreotypes taken in the different styles.  W. W. Tileston.

The eleventh announcement appeared on February 9, 1856.  Ambrotypes.  Mr. Tileston, the well known Daguerreotypist of this city, is now engaged in taking beautiful ambrotypes, an improvement over the Daguerreotype.  The likeness is taken on glass, and before put in the case is transparent when held to the light, but placed before a black back ground represent on one side a positive picture and the other a negative.  In the case, they resemble a Daguerreotype, but are of much finer tone, free from that shine which prevents the Daguerreotype from being seen to advantage except in a certain light, and are indeed a much more perfect picture.  By this process, the eyes are taken perfectly, while by the old way, The eyes of some subjects never can be correctly pictured.  The best likeness we have ever had of ourself, was taken by this ambrotype process, and we have been Daguerreotypes innumerable times.  We would advise those wanting really good likenesses of themselves to hand down to posterity, or to present to members of the present generation to become ambrotyped at once.  Mr. Tileston has been at a heavy expense learning this branch of the art, and improving his rooms, and he deserves a large increase of patronage.  His advertisement will give some additional particulars.

The twelfth announcement appeared on May 7, 1856.  Proceedings of the City Council.  Monday Evening, May 5. 

Council met pursuant to adjournment.—Present, Mayor Hewson, and Councilmen Scantlin, Rathbone, Cook, Orr, Setchell, Venneman, Johnson , and Hunnel.  Minutes read and approved….The following allowances were made for services rendered at city election, and afterwards…W. W. Tileston, $5,00…

The thirteenth announcement appeared on October 21, 1856.  List of Premiums Awarded at The Second Annual Fair of The Vanderburgh County Agricultural & Horticultural Society…Division F.—Class No. 1…

W. W. Tileston, Best Ambrotypes, diploma.

The fourteenth announcement appeared on November 17, 1856.  Easy.—Sauntering down the street Saturday morning, who should we meet but Webster—the veritable E. Z. Webster, of picture notoriety.  It is unnecessary to state, that we have been in good humour ever since.  Since he last visited Evansville, Webster has become an editor, and we have a “fellow feeling” for him.  His paper, the “Heliographic Mirror,” lies on our Sanctum table, and when we wish to rid ourselves of a talkative visitor, we push him into an arm chair, and give him the “Mirror.”  When he laughs too loud we turn him out.  And this reminds us that Webster is “turning out” some pictures at Tileston’s gallery that are perfectly—well, to say the best of them, are just such as Webster takes, and “nobody else.”  Call round and get your shadow, done up in a style that will surprise even yourself.  Folks don’t know how good looking they are, until Webster has “tuk’em.”

The ninth advertisement ran from November 19, 1856 to April2, 1857.  Webster’s Sphereotypes, Daguerreotypes, Ambrotypes, Callodiotypes.  And all other styles of Heliographic Pictures can be obtained at Webster & Tileston’s Gallery in Bray’s Building, at prices ranging from One Dollar up.

Please call soon, as Webster’s time is limited.  W. & T.

The tenth advertisement ran from November 26, 1856 to March 30, 1857.  For the Journal.

I never ‘spired tew be a poit, 

(I need’nt tell, I ‘spose you no it;)

But if I thawt there’s virtu in it—

Darn’d if I would’nt in a minit!

But when you tawk of dog’ratypin,

Webster’s round and takes delite in;

Ded or ‘live he’ll stamp your feeturs.

And “babiz” tew, deer little creeturs.

On paper, iron, glass or plate,

He’ll fix yewr shadder sure as fate,

So natural and so trew to life,

When yew’re away ‘twill fool yewr wife.     

The eleventh advertisement ran from April 27 to May 28, 1857.  Daguerreotypes Taken At The Sunbeam, Opposite the P. O.  Having made an entire change in my Mammoth Sky Light, by which I am enabled to take much finer pictures than heretofore, so that I am now prepared to take pictures of all sizes that will compare favorably with any taken in the West.

Remember the place, opposite the Post office.

N. B.  We are also prepared to go out and take likenesses of corpses at short notice.  sept15.      W. W. Tileston

The twelfth advertisement ran from May 29 to June 5, 1857.  Sun Beam Gallery, First Street, Opposite the Post Office.  The above Gallery having just undergone an entire change and refitting, is now re-opened for the Spring Business, With a new and beautiful stock of Cases, Frames, and Apparatus.  Feeling thankful for the past liberal patronage, I would respectfully solicit a continuance of the same.  Warranting satisfaction in all cases, I would solicit an examination of my stock and specimens.  W. W. Tileston.

The fifteenth announcement appeared on June 5, 1857.

Promptitude.—Whatsoever thou resolvest to do—do it quickly—defer not till the evening what should be the work of the morning.  Therefore, call at the Sun Beam Daguerrian Gallery, on first street, and get you one of Tileston’s superior pictures, either a Colodiotype, Melaneotype, or any type connected with the Heliographic art.  He warrants perfect satisfaction in all cases.

W. W. Tileston is recorded in other photographic directories and has been previously posted on May 26 as Tileston Brothers, and yesterday May 28 as Tileston, Randall & Co.