Tag Archives: Daguerreotypist

Richards

1853                3 Exchange Block, Alexandria, Virginia.

Richards appeared in one advertisement that was recorded on November 14, 1853 in the Alexandria Gazette (Alexandria, Virginia).  Daguerrean Fancy Goods.—Richards’, No. 3 Exchange Block, has every article generally kept in a Fancy Store, and of the best quality, and will be sold cheap.  Now if you want your Daguerreotype in a first rate case, go to Richards, and buy $5 worth of goods, and he will give you your picture free of charge.  The pictures are perfect, and warranted not to fade. 

Richards is not recorded in other photographic directories.

George K. Richards

1852-1853       New Exchange Building, Concord, New Hampshire.

1853                Address Unknown, Concord, New Hampshire.

George K. Richards was recorded in one advertisement that ran from November 18, 1852 to January 13, 1853 in the Independent Democrat (Concord, New Hampshire), and the Concord, New Hampshire City Directory for 1853.  New Daguerreotype Rooms!  The subscriber respectfully informs the inhabitants of Concord and vicinity, that he has taken rooms in the New Exchange, Three Doors South, of the Eagle Hotel, Where he invites all those who wish for a good Daguerreotype of themselves or friends to give him a call.  Having the advantage of a good Sky-Light, and using nothing but the best Stock and Chemicals, he flatters himself that he will be able to give satisfaction, and no pains shall be wanting on his part to do so.

The public are invited to call and examine specimens.

Miniatures, Taken single or in Groups, and neatly set in Frames, Jenny Lind, Chinese or common Cases; Lockets, Pins, Bracelets, &c., & c.  Copies taken from Portraits, Engravings, Daguerreotypes, &c.

All Pictures Warranted not to fade.

Daguerreotypes cleaned and Preservers put on to keep out the dust.  Old Pictures reset in New Silk, or Velvet Cases.  Geo K. Richards.

The 1853 Concord, New Hampshire City Directory, Residence Listing records Richards, G. K. as a daguerreotypist, business address not listed he boarded at A. H. Wigging.  

George K. Richards was recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry as G. K. Richards as being active in Concord, New Hampshire in 1853-1854.  The debate over using the publication date of the city directory is controversial, at best.  In this case using 1853-1854 suggest that he was active during both years.  When in fact the information was recorded in late 1852 or early 1853. He might have moved on by the time the directory was published, so the 1854 date is misleading.

W. A. Retzer

1844                341 Market Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

1845                129 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

1846-1847       Rooms one door above Citizens’ Bank. Lynchburg, Virginia.

W. A. Retzer was recorded in four advertisements and one announcement.  The first advertisement ran from May 28 to August 31, 1846 in the Lynchburg Virginian (Lynchburg, Virginia).  Daguerreotype Miniatures.  Silver Medal Awarded by the Franklin Institute, Philadelphia, and the American Institute, New York, from Improved Daguerreotype Likenesses, taken by Van Loan & Retzer.

W. A. Retzer’s rooms one door above the Citizens’ Saving Bank. Lynchburg, Va. Where can be seen specimens of those exquisite works of art, which are pronounced by scientific gentlemen of Philadelphia and New York, to stand unrivalled either in Europe or America.

Oil Paintings, Miniatures, and all kinds of Pictures accurately copied.

Pictures taken in all kinds of weather.

It is a common idea that these pictures will not stand the test of time—all such defect is entirely moved, as they are gilded by the galvanic process and will never fade.  Instructions given in the art, and apparatus of the most approved kind furnished.  Materials of all kinds used in the art for sale.  Ladies and gentlemen are invited to call and examine specimens.

Pen  from 8 o’clock, A. M. to 6 P. M.

The announcement appeared on January 7, 1847 in the Lynchburg Virginian (Lynchburg, Virginia).  List Of Letters Remaining in the Post Office in Lynchburg, on the 1st day of January 1847…Retzer, Wm. A.

The second advertisement was recorded on January 28, March 18 & 22, 1847 in the Lynchburg Republican (Lynchburg, Virginia).  Daguerreotype Miniatures.  Having appointed J. H. Fitzgibbon my agent in Lynchburg for the sale of Pictures, Cammeras (sic.) Plates, Chemicals, Cases and all other articles used in the Daguerreotype business.  Operators in this section of the Country will find it to their advantage to give me a call for they will find all articles at the Northern prices. Instructions also given in the Art.

Pictures taken as usual at my room nearly opposite the Franklin Hotel, in all kinds of weather. Ladies and Gentlemen are invited to call and examine the numerous specimens I now have on hand. Open from 8 o’clock A. M. to 6 P. M.

The third advertisement he was mentioned in first appeared on April 5, 1847 in the Lynchburg Virginian (Lynchburg, Virginia).  Daguerreotype Likenesses.  The subscriber would respectfully inform the citizens of Lynchburg and surrounding country, that he has taken the rooms nearly opposite the Franklin Hotel, formerly occupied by Mr. W. A. Retzer, and recently by Mr. J. H. Fitzgibbons, where he is prepared to execute Miniature Likenesses with all the latest and most important improvements.

Miniatures taken in any kind of weather, and all pictures warranted a fac-simile of the original.

Ladies and Gentlemen are invited to call and examine specimens of this beautiful art.

N. B.—Instruction given in the art on moderate terms.  P. E. Gibbs.  April 5.

The fourth advertisement that he was mentioned in appeared on May 3, 1847 in the Lynchburg Republican.  Daguerreotype Likenesses.  The subscriber would respectfully inform the citizens of Lynchburg and surrounding country, that he has taken the rooms nearly opposite the Franklin Hotel, formerly occupied by Mr. W. A. Retzer, and recently by Mr. J. H. Fitzgibbons, where he is prepared to execute Miniature Likenesses with all the latest and most important improvements.

Miniatures taken in any kind of weather, and all pictures warranted a fac-simile of the original.

Ladies and Gentlemen are invited to call and examine specimens of this beautiful art.

N. B.—Instruction given in the art on moderate terms.  P. E. Gibbs.  April 5.

W. A. Retzer is not recorded in other photographic directories as being active Lynchburg, Virginia.  Craig’s Daguerreian Registry does list a W. A. Retzer being active in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1844-1845. Directory of Pennsylvania Photographers 1839-1900 also records him in Philadelphia in 1840-41.

P. P. Quimby

1848                Room over I. Allard, Jr.’s Store, Belfast, Maine.

1851                Church Street, Belfast, Maine.

1853-1854       Haraden’s Block, Head of Main Street, Belfast, Maine.

1855                Address Unknown, Belfast, Maine.[1]

P. P. Quimby (and P. P. Quimby & Son) were recorded in five advertisements, and announcement and mentioned in another advertisement in the Republican Journal (Belfast, Maine) and one advertisement in the Kennebec Journal (Augusta, Maine) (non-photographic).  The first advertisement appeared on January 21, 1848.  Daguerreotype Miniatures, Taken By P. P. Quimby, At His Room, Over J. Allard, Jr.’s Store, Belfast In a style fully equal to any artist in Boston or New York, and at cheaper rates. 

The advertisement that he was mentioned in appeared on June 13, 1851.  Dr. C. Moore, Surgeon Dentist, And Manufacturer of Mineral or Unchangeable Teeth, (With or Without Artificial Gums.)  Can be consulted at all times at his office and residence, on Church street, (opposite P. P. Quimby’s Daguerreotype Rooms.)…

The second advertisement ran from June 24 to August 5, 1853.  Quimby’s Daguerrean Gallery, Haraden’s Block, Head of Main Street, Belfast. Me.

The third advertisement was recorded from July 1 to August 5, 1853.   New Daguerreotype Rooms!  New Firm.  P. P. Quimby & Son Having lately fitted up a room in Haraden’s Block, having the advantage of a large Top Light, are now prepared to attend to the wishes of the citizens of Belfast and vicinity in all the various branches of the Daguerrean business.  Having on hand a large stock of Cases, Lockets, &c., we flatter ourselves that we can satisfy the taste of the most fastidious.

Perfect satisfaction given in all cases.

Country Artists Are respectfully informed that we have on hand and are constantly receiving Cases of all qualities, best H. B. Plates, Mats, Glasses, Preservers, Cld. Gold, Hyp. Soda, and all the various etcetera of the business, and we can supply them, in large or small quantities, at low prices.  P. P. Quimby & Son.  Belfast, June 1853.

The fourth advertisement was recorded nine times between October 7, 1853 to July 7, 1854.  P. P. Quimby & Son, Daguerrian Artists, And dealers in Daguerreotype Apparatus, Haraden’s Block, Head of Main-street, Belfast.

The announcement appeared on October 14, 1853.  Agricultural Anniversary.  Seventh Annual Cattle Show and Fair of Waldo County Agricultural Society…

The Exhibition At The Hall.  The Exhibition at Pierce’s Hall…The first thing that attracts the eye, is the display of daguerreotypes from the establishments of Quimby and Son, and J. Estan…

The non-photographic advertisement first appeared on January 17, 1859 in the Kennebec Journal (Augusta, Maine).  Notice.  Dr. P. P. Quimby, of Belfast, Would say to his friends in Augusta and vicinity, that he will be at the Stanley House, on Saturday, the 15th inst., where he may be found for a short time, and will attend to all persons wishing to consult him in regard to their health.  Persons calling for that purpose, should understand that he can give no reliable opinion except by an examination of their case, the examination is describing the feelings of the patient and declaring the disease.  Fee for examination $1.50, if necessary to see the patient more than once, fifty cents for each subsequent sitting.  Prior conversation with friends is of no value, and only occupies time which is valuable.  Room No. 6.

P. P. Quimby is recorded as P. P. Quimby & Son in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry as being active in 1855.


[1] Craig’s Daguerreian Registry.

E. Punderson

1845                Address Unknown, Factory Island, Saco, Maine.

1846                Address Unknown, Saco, Maine.

1846                Address Unknown, New York, New York.

1846                Rooms Directly Opposite the Post Office, Saco, Maine.

1847                Rooms Over Nathaniel Churchill’s Store, Exeter, New Hampshire.

E. Punderson was recorded in four advertisements.  The first advertisement ran on December 23 & 30, 1845 in the Maine Democrat (Saco, Maine).  Wish you Merry Christmas!  All persons wishing to present their friends with a valuable Christmas or New Year’s Gift-one which will be valued far beyond its cost—one which time instead of impairing will only render more valuable—and one which as often as seen cannot fail to call to mind the giver, can obtain such by calling at Punderson’s Daguerrian Rooms, Factory Island, where by favoring him with the Light Of Their Countenance for a few seconds, he will furnish them with a perfect and well executed Likeness, for the trifling of [$2.50] which will be by far the most beautiful and valuable gift of any which can be obtained for a similar cost.

A very handsome assortment of Gold and Gilt Lockets just received which will be sold at a very small advance from cost.

The second advertisement appeared on April 14, 1846 in the Maine Democrat.  Perfect likenesses, By the Daguerreotype Process, For Only $2.50.  E. Punderson would respectfully announce to the citizens of Saco and vicinity, that he intends remaining in this place For One Week Longer Only.  Those wishing correct and beautifully executed likenesses of themselves or friends, will probably never have a better opportunity than the present.

It would seem wholly unnecessary to urge upon any reflecting mind the importance of securing a likeness of every member of their family.  ‘Tis true that whilst surrounded by the object of our love, a likeness may seem of but little value; but let death enter the family circle and remove from the number a beloved parent, brother or child, ‘tis than that their likeness becomes valuable.—How valuable, those only who possess such a memento of a dearly loved but departed friend can well realize.

Hours of operating from 9 A. M. to 4½ P. M.  Pictures taken without regard to weather.  Rooms open evenings for the exhibition of pictures. 

The third advertisement ran from July 28 to September 22, 1846 in the Maine Democrat.  Punderson’s Daguerrean Rooms Re-Opened.  E. Punderson, having returned from N. York, where he has been for the purpose of perfecting himself in the recent improvements made in the art, again offers his services to the citizens of Saco and vicinity, and pledges himself that his pictures shall not be surpassed by those of any operator in the country.

He would respectfully invite those wishing correct and well-executed likenesses, to call at his rooms, Directly opposite the Post Office, where perfect satisfaction will be given or no charge,  The liberal patronage bestowed upon him during his long stay in this place, is of itself sufficient proof of the high estimation in which his pictures are held, and no pains will be spared to secure a continuance of the same.  It appears to be the general impression that pictures taken in cloudy weather, are not as good as those taken in a clear day.  This is incorrect; the only difference being that in a cloudy day it is necessary to sit a few seconds longer; but the effect is the same.

Pictures set in frames, cases, lockets, pins or rings.  Hours of operating from 9 A. M. to 5 P. M.

The fourth advertisement ran on March 8 & 15, 1847 in the Exeter News-Letter and Rockingham Adviser (Exeter, New Hampshire).  With Or Without Colors.  How often do we hear the wish expressed for the miniature of an absent or a deceased friend?  And indeed who has not at one time or other vainly endeavored (for want of one of these little remembrances) to recall the features that once reflected all our dreams of love and beauty?  The smiling lip and laughing eye—the manly brow and thoughtful gaze of some dear companion, parent or friend, and sighed to think that they were lost to us forever?  Who does not love, whilst pondering o’er the sunshine and shadows of the past to be able to gaze on the countenance of some dear and early loved, but mourned and buried friend?

It would seem hardly necessary to urge upon any reflection mind the importance of securing likenesses of themselves and family.  It is true, that whilst surrounded by the objects of our love, a likeness may seem of but little or no consequence, but let death enter that circle and remove one after another, it is then their likeness becomes valuable—how valuable those only who have been so fortunate as to secure this memento of a departed friend can well realize.

Formerly the time spent in obtaining a likeness and the expense attending it, together with the uncertainty of finally procuring one which would be satisfactory were serious objections and deterred many from sitting for their pictures.  But this wonderful discovery a picture may be obtained in a few seconds which for beauty and accuracy of delineation cannot be surpassed by any painting, it being no fancy sketch of the Artist, but the ‘bona fide’ shadow itself, and that too at an expense so trifling that almost every person can obtain a likeness not only of himself but of every member of his family.

The subscriber having been under the instruction of the first operators in the city of New York, and having been for a long time practically engaged in the business, sparing neither pains nor expense in availing himself of all the recent improvements in the art, flatters himself that his pictures for accuracy and beauty of execution cannot be surpassed by those of any operator; and he would respectfully invite all, whether they contemplate sitting for their pictures or not, to call at his Rooms, over Nathaniel Churchill’s Store, and examine his specimens.  They will thus be enabled to judge for themselves.  As he intends remaining in this place for a short time only, those wishing their pictures will do well to give him an early call.

Portraits and Miniatures copied with perfect accuracy.  Pictures set in Frames, Cases, Lockets, Bracelets, &c.  No person will be expected to take a picture unless perfectly satisfied with the execution.  Likenesses taken without regard to weather.

Hours of operating, from 9 A. M. to 5 P. M.  Rooms open Evenings for the exhibition of Pictures.  E. Punderson.

E. Punderson is recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry in Exeter, New Hampshire in 1847.

Mr. Pratt

1857                Address Unknown, Foxboro, Massachusetts.

Mr. Pratt was recorded in one announcement on July 6, 1857 in the Portland Weekly Advertiser (Portland, Maine).  The “fraternal spirit” of the Massachusetts democracy is manifesting itself in a dangerous manner.  It appears that a young man named Pratt, who has a Daguerreotype Saloon in Foxboro, has lately been appointed postmaster at North Easton.  At midnight on the 22d inst. His saloon was fired by incendiaries—supposed to have gone from the latter named place for the purpose—by way of manifesting their envy of his appointment.  The damage done to his property exceeded $1,000.  Truly these democrats are “fraternally inclined.”

Mr. Pratt is not recorded in other photographic directories.

A. J. Pierce

1849-c.1852    Granite Hall Building, Water Street, Augusta, Maine.

A. J. Pierce was recorded in one announcement and mentioned in two advertisements.  The announcement appeared on October 6, 1849 in the Gospel Banner (Augusta, Maine).  Daguerreotype Miniatures.  These are nature’s paintings, and of course are perfect.  Daguerre’s Art is one of the greatest discoveries of this wonderful age.  Of course, now, all persons will have their likenesses, and those of their friends, taken.  We were in Chase’s and North’s rooms in Boston a fortnight ago, and saw what are said to be the best specimens in the city—and they were truly life-like, but not more so than some we have seen executed in Augusta.  The sun paints as faithfully on the Kennebec as in the City of Notions.  If you doubt it, just call in at A. J. Pierce’s Gallery on Water-st., and see how an ingenious man can help Nature do her work most beautifully.  Or, if more convenient, visit, our friend Holcomb’s Room on Market Square, and you will find there a man and his work worthy of your attention and patronage.

The first advertisement he was mentioned in appeared on October 21, 1852 in the Maine Farmer  (Augusta, Maine).  S. N. Williams, (Successor to A. J. Pierce,) Daguerreotype Gallery, Granite Hall Building, Water Street, Augusta, Me.  Likenesses taken in Clear or Cloudy Weather—Hours for Children from 10 A. M. to 2 P. M.  Painted or Daguerreotype Likenesses accurately copied.  Mr. Pierce will remain a few weeks at the Room.

Stock and Apparatus for sale at Boston prices.

The second announcement appeared on June 22, 1854 in the Maine Farmer (which was also posted yesterday in its entirety) Photographic, Stereoscopic Crayon, Crystalotypes, and other styles of Pictures, May be found at Isaac H. Dupree’s Rooms, Granite Hall, Water Street, Augusta, Maine. I. H. Dupee respectfully informs his friends and the public generally, that he has taken the Rooms formerly occupied by Pierce & Williams…

A. J. Pierce is not recorded in other photographic directories. 

Pierce & William

N. D.-1854      Granite Hall, Water Street, Augusta, Maine.

Pierce & William (A. J. Pierce & S. N. Williams) was mentioned in one advertisement that appeared on June 22, 1854 in the Maine Farmer (Augusta, Maine).  Photographs, Stereoscopic Crayon, Crystalotypes, and other Styles of Pictures, May be found at Isaac H. Dupee’s Rooms, Granite Hall, Water Street, Augusta, Me.  I. H. Dupee respectfully inform his friends and the public generally, that he has taken the Rooms formerly occupied by Pierce & Williams, for the purpose of Daguerreotyping.  Having on of the largest Cameras in the city, he is prepared to take large pictures, and especially groups, (no matter how many,) arranged in the most appropriate style.  Having paid particular attention to taking Children, and being provided with a quick working Camera, he can take small children in one quarter of the usual time.  Hours for Children from 9 A. M. till 2 P. M.  Likenesses taken in clear or cloudy weather, and warranted perfect, for the low price of $1 and upwards, including case.  Also inserted in Rings, Pins, Lockets, Seals, &c., a large assortment of which he has on hand at all times.  H having had long experience in this business, solicits a share of your patronage.  All work entrusted to his care will be promptly attended to and warranted as good as the best.

A large assortment of Daguerreotype Materials for sale to the trade at Boston prices.  Operators furnished with every thing necessary to carry on business with.  Perfect satisfaction given in all cases.

Sick and deceased persons taken at their houses, if wished, as well as at his rooms.

Portraits, Daguerreotypes and Engravings, copied accurately and put in cases or frames.  The public are invited to call and judge for themselves.  Mr. Dupee, by attention to business, and keeping his rooms open at all hours, hopes to secure Miniatures of all who call and are in want.

I take this opportunity to return my thanks to my friends and patrons for their liberal patronage.  I have sold my Rooms to Isaac H. Dupee, formerly of Bath.  I can recommend him to all who may wish for a good Daguerreotype of themselves or friends.  Mr. D. has had long experience in the Daguerreotype business; he comes well recommended as an artist and a gentleman.  S. N. W.

Pierce & William, and A. J. Pierce are not recorded in other photographic directories.  Seth N. Williams is recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry as being active in Rockland, Maine in 1855, it is possible that they are the same person.

M. B. Peters

1848-1849       Goodrichs’ New Block, North Street, Pittsfield, Massachusetts.

1849                Francis Block, North Street, Pittsfield, Massachusetts.

1849-1851       Address Unknown, Pittsfield, Massachusetts.[1]

M. B. Peters was recorded in six advertisements.  The first advertisement ran from April 26 to September 20, 1848 in the Culturist and Gazette (Pittsfield, Massachusetts).  Pittsfield Daguerrian Gallery, In The Cupola On Goodrichs’ Block, North St.  M. B. Peters, Artist and Wood Engraver.  The advantages of the location and the powerful light obtained in the Cupola, render cloudy weather equally as good for Daguerreotyping as the brightest sunshine.

Children’s Likenesses taken perfectly in four or five seconds.

I boast not of being the principal operator of Plumbe, or any other establishment, neither do I exhibit their specimens as my own; but by the merits of my works I stand or fall, and I will pledge myself that my Daguerreotypes shall be equal, both in life-like expression, depth of tone and durability, to any in the world.

Every picture warranted to give perfect satisfaction or no pay.

I am now finishing and gilding by an entirely new and improved process, (known only to myself) which gives to the Daguerreotype a depth of tone wholly unknown before, and renders it more like a painting on ivory, in colours. 

Daguerreotypes set in frames, cases, lockets, bracelets, pins, rings, &c.  Also, Miniatures, Portraits, Engravings, Views, &c. copied with the utmost accuracy.

N. B.  Persons wishing a through knowledge of the art with all the improvements in Chemicals and in manufacturing the same, will find it to their advantage to give me a call before going elsewhere.  Apparatus furnished as cheap as the cheapest.

M. B. P. is ready to execute all kinds of wood engraving to order.  Also, to plate all kinds of Jewelry, Watch-Cases, &c., &c, with gold or silver, by a process warranted superior to any now in use.  Pittsfield, Jan. 25, 1848.

The second advertisement ran from August 23 to September 13, 1848 in the Berkshire Culturist and Weekly Family Gazette (Pittsfield, Massachusetts).  Now Is The Time!!  Daguerreotypes!  Of the first class, set in neat Morocco Cases, for One Dollar! 

At the Cupola Gallery, on Goodrich’s Block, North Street, Pittsfield.  M. B. Peters, Artist.

N. B.  Every Picture warranted equal to any in the world!

The third advertisement ran from September 20 & 27, 1848 in the Berkshire Culturist and Weekly Family Gazette.  Pittsfield Daguerrian Gallery, In The Cupola On Goodrich’s Block, North St. 

Competition defined—Daguerreotypes for $1.  I am now ready to furnish Daguerreotypes upon the best quality of silver plate, gilded, colored and finished with all the latest improvements, set in a neat and fashionable double embossed case, with metallic or French mattings, as people choose, for One Dollar!  I will pledge myself, that my dollar Miniatures shall be equal to those taken at any other establishment for 2 and 3 dollars, as to material, and second to none in the world, as to depth of tone and style of finish.  Ladies and gentlemen are invited to call and see if these things are so, and not depend upon the word of those who have the greatest reasons imaginable for telling anything but the truth in the matter.  It is a new thing for first class pictures to be sold for one dollar, and of course makes those who want to get $2 and $3 for their Daguerreotypes, use every effort to deceive the people, as to the quality of these dollar miniatures.  Every Daguerreotype warranted, or No Pay.  From the location of my gallery, light, &c. cloudy weather is just as good as the brightest sunshine for daguerreotyping.  M. B. Peters, Artist.

The fourth advertisement ran from October 11, 1848 to March 28, 1849 in the Berkshire Culturist and Weekly Family Gazette.  Pittsfield Daguerrian Gallery, In The Cupola On Goodrich’s Block, North St.  Awarded first premium at the Berkshire Co. Fair, Oct 5th, 1848.

Competition defined—Daguerreotypes for $1.  I am now ready to furnish Daguerreotypes upon the best quality of silver plate, gilded, colored and finished with all the latest improvements, set in a neat and fashionable double embossed case, with metallic or French mattings, as people choose, for One Dollar!  I will pledge myself, that my dollar Miniatures shall be equal to those taken at any other establishment for 2 and 3 dollars, as to material, and second to none in the world, as to depth of tone and style of finish.  Ladies and gentlemen are invited to call and see if these things are so, and not depend upon the word of those who have the greatest reasons imaginable for telling anything but the truth in the matter.  It is a new thing for first class pictures to be sold for one dollar, and of course makes those who want to get $2 and $3 for their Daguerreotypes, use every effort to deceive the people, as to the quality of these dollar miniatures.  Every Daguerreotype warranted, or No Pay.  From the location of my gallery, light, &c. cloudy weather is just as good as the brightest sunshine for daguerreotyping.  37.

Daguerreotypes set in frames, cases, lockets, bracelets, pins, rings, &c.  Also Miniatures, Portraits, Engravings, Views, &c. copied with the utmost accuracy.

N. B.  Persons wishing a through knowledge of the art with all the latest improvements in Chemicals, and in manufacturing the same, will find it to their advantage to give me a call before going elsewhere.  Apparatus furnished as cheap as the cheapest.

M. B. P. is ready to execute all kinds of Wood Engraving to order.  Also, to plate all kinds of Jewelry, Watch Cases, &c. &c. with gold or silver, by a process warranted superior to any now in use.  M. B. Peters, Artist., Pittsfield, Jan. 25, 1848.

The fifth advertisement ran from December 6, 1848 to January 3, 1849 in the Berkshire Culturist and Weekly Family Gazette.  To Daguerrian Artists!  The subscriber would invite the attention of Daguerrian Artists to a New and Improved Gilding for Miniatures, giving to leaden-toned pictures, a beautiful flesh color, or to blue lined a beautiful clear, pearly white.  Price, $1 per pint bottle.

Also, on hand and for sale, a new article of quick stuff, warranted superior to any now in market.  Persons wishing to give the above Chemicals a trial, may call of send for them, and if they are not as recommended, the money will be refunded.  M. B. Peters, Daguerrian Artist.

The sixth advertisement ran from April 4 to December 19, 1849 in the Berkshire Culturist and Weekly Family Gazette.  New Daguerrian & Dental Hall!  M. B. Peters, Daguerrian Artist & Wood Engraver.  M. C. Belding, Surgeon and Medical Dentist.  Francis Block, North Street, (Entrance, First Door Up Stairs.)

The subscribers would announce to the People! That they have fitted up a complete suite of rooms for the purpose of carrying on Daguerreotyping and Dentistry in all its branches—and from the experience they have in their possession, they feel confident in saying their work shall not be excelled by any.

All work warranted as recommended.

Dental charges reasonable as at other offices.

Daguerreotypes taken in all weather, and prices lower than at any other establishment in the United States.

Miniatures set in cases, frames, lockets, pins, rings &c., &c.

Also, Portraits, prints, views, miniatures &c., copied with accuracy.

All materials used in Daguerreotyping for sale cheap.

Instruction in the art carefully given.  Apparatus, &c., furnished cheaper than the cheapest,

Wood Engraving and Gold and Silver Plating done to order.

M. B. Peters is recorded in other photographic directories as being active Pittsfield, Massachusetts from 1849-1851.


[1] A Directory Of Massachusetts Photographers 1839-1900.

Major Pelham

1849-1850       Corner Main and Elm Streets, Little Rock, Arkansas.

1851                Rooms in Temperance Hall, Washington, Arkansas.

1851                Rooms in the Brick Office, opposite D’Armond’s, Washington, Arkansas.

1851                Rooms in Temperance Hall, Washington, Arkansas.

Major Pelham was recorded in four advertisements and three announcements.  The first two advertisements appeared in the Weekly Arkansas Gazette (Little Rock, Arkansas).  Follower by two advertisements and three announcements in the Washington Telegraph (Washington, Arkansas).    The first advertisement was recorded between February 1 to September 20, 1849.Rock Hotel.  Major Pelham has leased, and will open for the accommodation of visitors and boarders, by the day, month, or year, that large brick edifice on the bank of the river, the first below the State House, in the city of Little Rock, Arkansas.  The House has been thoroughly cleansed and repaired, newly furnished, and entirely renovated in every respect.  His table will always be abundantly supplied with the very best the market affords.  A Reading Room has been opened, in which may always be found newspapers from various parts of the United States.

The Rock Hotel will be opened on the 5th day of February, 1849.

The second advertisement ran from September 20, 1849 to February 15, 1850.  Rock Hotel.  By Major Pelham, On the bank of the River, immediately below the State House, Corner Of Main And Elm Streets Little Rock, Arkansas.

A comfortable Reading Room and a stationary Daguerrean Gallery are attached to the Rock Hotel.

The third advertisement ran from July 9 to 30, 1851.  Mr. Pelham Has opened his Daguerrean Rooms in the Temperance Hall, (entrance next Dr. Jett’s Drug Store) where he will be found at all times.  He has a superior Camera, &c., and a splendid stock of materials.  Ladies and gentlemen please call and examine for yourselves.  July 4, 1851.

The fourth advertisement ran from August 6 to September 17, 1851. Daguerrean.  Mr. Pelham has opened Daguerrean Rooms in the Brick Office opposite Mr. D’Armond’s, where he will be pleased to see the ladies and gentlemen of Washington and vicinity.  He has a superior instrument and fine material, consisting in part of extra fine cases, Lockets, Pins, &c.  He has arranged a sky light, by which he is enabled to take likenesses in cloudy as well as clear weather.

The first announcement appeared on August 6, 1851.  Maj. Pelham is still taking excellent Daguerreotype portraits, at his rooms opposite D’Armond & Silliman’s store.—As the Major contemplates remaining but a short time longer, we would advise those who desire good portraits to call upon him without delay.

The second announcement appeared on November 26, 1851.  Daguerreotypes.—Major Pelham has re-opened his Daguerreotype rooms at Temperance Hall, with an entirely new apparatus, combining all the new improvements.  He will remain in town a week or ten days longer, and would be pleased to receive calls from all who desired his services in the line of his profession.

The third announcement appeared on December 10, 1851.  Maj. Pelham closes his Daguerrean rooms on Saturday next, positively.—Those who desire  fac similes of their beautiful faces, should make good use of the intervening time.

Major Pelham is recorded in Pioneer Photographers from The Mississippi To The Continental Divide A Biographical Dictionary, 1839-1865. The above provides additional information.