1857 Rooms at the Odd Fellows’ Hall, Washington, Louisiana. 1859 Rooms at the Odd Fellows’ Hall, Washington, Louisiana.
G. W. Robbins was recorded in two announcements and two advertisements in The Opelousas Patriot (Opelousas, Louisiana). The first announcement appeared on February 14, 1857. Ambrotypes.—When the art of Daguerreotyping was discovered, the world was taken by surprise to see the very elements brought to do the work of the portrait painter, exceeding the miniature likenesses of the most eminent masters in giving truly the form and features of the subject. But there were a few deficiencies in that art—that have now been overcome by the late discovery of the art of Ambrotyping—which, while the features are given with strict fidelity, are susceptible of being viewed from any point, without changing their appearance.
We have been shown several specimens of Mr. Robbins’s proficiency in this art, and can certainly say of them that they are inferior to none. He evidently has mastered all the intricacies of his business, and understands it thoroughly.
Mr. R. has taken rooms at the Odd Fellows’ Hall, Washington, where he will remain for a limited time. Our neighbors should avail themselves of this chance to preserve their features; they can never do it younger.
The first advertisement ran from February 14 to 28, 1857. Ambrotypes—Respectfully To All! G. W. Robbins has taken rooms (for a short time only), at Odd Fellows’ Hall, Washington, and is ready to execute Ambrotype Likenesses in the latest and most approved style of this new and beautiful art.
Mr. R. solicits Ladies and Gentlemen to call and examine specimens of his work, hoping, from twelve years experience as a Daguerrean, and two years practice in Ambrotyping, to be able to please all who may favor him with their patronage.
Correct Likenesses taken in any weather, or no charge will be made. Children’s Likenesses taken only in fair weather.
The second announcement appeared on November 26, 1859. Photographic.—We invite attention to the advertisement of Mr. G. W. Robbins, who has taken rooms in Washington for the purpose of taking likenesses in the most approved styles of the art.
Mr. Robbins enjoys a high reputation in his line of business, and our citizens should not let the present opportunity pass to secure superlative likenesses.
The second advertisement ran from November 26 to December 31, 1859. Photographs and Ambrotypes. G. W. Robbins, would announce that he has taken rooms, for a short time only, at Odd Fellows’ Hall, Washington, La., and is prepared to execute Ambrotype Likenesses in the best and most approved Styles of the Art.
Having spared no pains nor expense to keep himself well posted in all valuable improvements with more that twelve years successful practice Mr. R. hopes to please all who favor him with their patronage, and guarantees his work to compare favorably with the best work done in New Orleans, Philadelphia, New York, or elsewhere, when seen side by side, which will be a sure test.
Ladies and gentlemen are respectfully invited to call and examine his work. Bring your best Pictures to compare with his, and judge for yourselves.
Rooms open from 8 to 12 o’clock A. M., and from half past 1 to half past 4 P. M. Children Likenesses taken in fair weather only, 10 o’clock A. M., to 3 o’clock P. M. Prices from One to Ten Dollars. Terms, Cash on delivery.
Copying in the best manner. Views made to order. Last and best of all, Stereoscopic Likenesses and Views, made upon scientific principles, which render them the most perfect Pictures in the world.
G. W. Robbins is not recorded in other photographic directories as being active in Washington, Louisiana. Craig’s Daguerreian Register list a G. W. Robbins in Houston in November 1852 and Huntsville, Texas in January 1853, it is possible that they are the same person.
Pioneer American Photographers, 1839 - 1860 