Tag Archives: Daguerreotypist

J. E. Armstrong

Ambrotypes, Daguerreotypes, , , ,

1854                Rooms over Brooke & Houghton Store, Plymouth, Indiana.

1854                Address Unknown, Plymouth, Indiana.                    

1855-1856       Rooms at his residence, North of Edwards’ Hotel, Plymouth, Indiana.

J. E. Armstrong was recorded in five advertisements, eight announcements, and mentioned in one advertisement and one announcement.  The first advertisement ran in the Plymouth Banner  (Plymouth, Indiana) from April 27 to October 5, 1854.  Daguerreotypes.  The subscriber wishes to inform the inhabitants of Plymouth and surrounding country that he has taken Rooms over Brooke & Houghton’s store, where he is now ready to take Daguerrean Likenesses in a good and approved style, and engages to do that which will be satisfactory to those who wish to obtain so important a relic of their friends or themselves.  J. E. Armstrong.   

The first announcement appeared in the Plymouth Banner (Plymouth, Indiana) on April 27, 1854.  Daguerrean Rooms.—Our readers will certainly be gratified to learn that we have permanently located amongst us an excellent operator in this beautiful act.  Mr. Armstrong, as will be seen by his advertisement, is now ready to accommodate those who may call upon him in the rooms formerly occupied by the Western Bank, up stairs in the old Plymouth Hotel.  Give him a call.

The second announcement appeared in the Plymouth Banner (Plymouth, Indiana) on August 3, 1854.  A Register of the temperature as kept at the Daguerrean Rooms of J. E. Armstrong in this place, for the present month, to the 30th.

at 1 o’clock p. m.        at 5 o’clk. p. m.

July 24            86.                               87.

        25            83.                               84.

        26            76.                               75.

        27            76.                               77.

        28            79.                               80.

        29            88.                               91.

        30            90.                               95.                  

The third announcement appeared in the Plymouth Banner (Plymouth, Indiana) on August 10, 1854.  A Register of the temperature as kept at the Daguerrean Rooms of J. E. Armstrong in this place, for the present month, to the 5th.

at 1 o’clock p. m.        at 5 o’clk. p. m.

July 31            94.                               96.

Aug. 1             94.                               96.

         2             81.                               81.

         3             76.                               79.

         4             79.                               76.

         5             80.                               81.

The fourth announcement appeared in the Plymouth Banner (Plymouth, Indiana) on August 17, 1854.  A Register of the temperature as kept at the Daguerrean Rooms of J. E. Armstrong in this place, for the present month, to the 13th.

at 1 o’clock p. m.        at 5 o’clk. p. m.

Aug. 7             72.                               72.

         8             75.                               73.

         9             70.                               70.

        10            75.                               79.

        11            79.                               80.

        12            76.                               79.

        13            80.                               79.      

The fifth announcement appeared in the Plymouth Banner (Plymouth, Indiana) on August 24, 1854.  A Register of the temperature as kept at the Daguerrean Rooms of J. E. Armstrong in this place, for the present month, to the 20th.

at 1 o’clock p. m.        at 5 o’clk. p. m.

Aug. 14           81.                               82.

         15           76.                               76.

         16           77.                               75.

         17           76.                               76.

         18           78.                               78.

         19           82.                               83.

         20           83.                               85.      

The sixth announcement appeared in the Plymouth Banner (Plymouth, Indiana) on August 24, 1854.  Removal.—The Daguerrean Rooms of Mr. Armstrong are removed to his residence in Edwards’ new building on Michigan street.  His operation heretofore seem to have given general satisfaction, and our citizens should extend him their patronage.                  

The second advertisement ran from August 24, 1854 to February 15, 1855 in the Plymouth Advertiser (Plymouth, Indiana).  Removal The undersigned having removed his place of operating 80 rods north on the same street, still invites the citizens and country people to call while the opportunity is in their reach, and no pains will be spared to obtain good likenesses.  He promises to give satisfaction to all reasonable expectations.  J. E. Armstrong.    

The seventh announcement appeared in the Plymouth Banner (Plymouth, Indiana) on September 7, 1854.  A Register of the temperature as kept at the Daguerrean Rooms of J. E. Armstrong in this place, for the present month, to the 3d.

at 1 o’clock p. m.        at 5 o’clk. p. m.

Aug. 21           88.                               88.

         22           89.                               89.

         23           92.                               93.

         24           93.                               95.

         25           86.                               88.

         26           87.                               86.

         27           84.                               86.

         28           85.                               85.

         29           92.                               93.                              

         30           95.                               94.

         31           93                                94.

Sept.  1            93.                               94.

          2            94.                               92.

          3            93.                               92.      

The third advertisement ran from January 18 to April 26, 1855 in the Plymouth Banner  (Plymouth, Indiana).  New Attraction.  The subscriber having got his new and large Sky-light ready for operating, notifies the public generally, that he is ready to take likenesses in good style.  J. E. Armstrong.

The fourth advertisement ran from August 9, 1855 to April 24, 1856 in the Plymouth Weekly Banner (Plymouth, Indiana).  J. E. Armstrong, attends to all calls in his line of Daguerreotyping, at his residence north of Edwards’ Hotel.

The announcement that J. E. Armstrong was mentioned in appeared in the Marshall County Democrat  (Plymouth, Indiana) on March 13, 1856.  In another column will be found the advertisement of W. H. Rhodes & Co., Ambrotype Artists.  We have seen specimen pictures taken by this mode, and think they are superior to the Daguerreotype.—Give them a call.  Rooms at J. E. Armstrong’s Daguerrean Gallery.

The advertisement he was mentioned in appeared in the Marshall County Democrat (Plymouth, Indiana) on March 13, 1856.  Ambrotype Likenesses!  The attention of the public is called to the fact that W. H. Rhodes is now occupying the rooms of J. E. Armstrong, in this village, where he is taking Ambrotype Likenesses!

The pictures taken by this method are far superior to the Daguerreotype, in life-like appearance—are on glass, and are perfectly durable.  Full satisfaction guaranteed to all who may favor him with their custom.

Those wanting likenesses will please call immediately, as the Rooms will positively be closed in thirty days, Mr. Armstrong having discontinued the business here.          W. H. Rhodes & Co.                          

The eighth announcement appeared in the Marshall County Democrat (Plymouth, Indiana) on October 16, 1856.  Any person wishing an Ambrotype, Daguerreotype, or Ambrograph, could not do better than to call at the Armstrong Daguerrean Rooms, where they can be accommodated.

The fifth 1856 advertisement ran from November 27 to December 18, 1856 in the Marshall County Democrat (Plymouth, Indiana).  Ambrotypes.  Those having Ambrotypes, taken by W. H. Rhodes & Co., that have failed to be what they were represented, can have them taken again, free of charge, by calling at the Daguerrean Rooms of John E. Armstrong, from the 1st to the 7th of December.  J. E. Armstrong.

J. E. Armstrong (and W. H. Rhodes) is not recorded in other photographic directories

Armstrong & Dunham

Daguerreotypes, , , ,

1854-1855       Rooms over Wooster’s Drug Store, Plymouth, Ohio.

Armstrong & Dunham (Dr. John Armstrong and J. W. Dunham) were recorded in two announcements and four advertisements in the Plymouth Advertiser (Plymouth, Ohio).  The first announcement appeared on July 15, 1854.  Armstrong & Dunham have fitted up the room over Wooster’s Drug Store, for the purpose of Daguerreotyping the faces of just as many people as feel so disposed.  Their room is fitted up very neatly, and in excellent taste.  They have every facility for prosecuting their business successfully, being provided with both side and sky lights.  We have examined specimens of their work, and cheerfully endorse it to our readers.

The first advertisement ran from July 15 to 29, 1854. Daguerreotypes.  Armstrong & Dunham’s new rooms, (over Wooster’s Drug Store,) are now open for the reception of the citizens of Plymouth and the vicinity.  This firm feels confident in saying that there are none better prepared or more capable to give satisfaction in the taking life-like likenesses than they are.  They have procured all the modern improvements in the art, and have finished a room in the best manner, in order that they may not be excelled by any in the country.  All they ask is a trial, and they will give the fullest satisfaction, or no charge will be made.  Children that are old enough to keep still five seconds, can be taken.  Miniatures inserted in pins, lockets, &c.  Pictures taken of deceased persons before burial.

Ladies and Gentlemen are invited to call.  Prices very moderate.                                        

The second advertisement ran from August 5, 1854 to February 16, 1855. Daguerrean and Dental Room, (Over Wooster’s Drug Store.)  Armstrong & Dunham have fitted up the commodious rooms over Wooster’s Drug Store, in the most superb style, for the purpose of carrying on both Daguerreotyping and Dentistry.  In both branches of the business they will give the fullest satisfaction, or no charge will be made.  They feel confident in saying that they can compete with Cleveland or Sandusky in the execution of their work, and at much less prices.  Call and see us when you come to town.  Plymouth.

The second announcement appeared on September 23, 1854.  We were shown a few days since, a most beautiful specimen of Dental skill, executed by Armstrong & Dunham, of this village.  It was a full set of teeth for the upper jaw, on gold plate, for a lady near Mansfield.  For beautiful workmanship, and natural, life-like appearance, it will compare favorably with anything we have ever seen.  The fact that the most of the work of this kind in this part of the state is done here, speaks well for our Dentist.

The third advertisement ran from February 23 to March 16, 1855.  Daguerrean and Dental Room, (Over Wooster’s Drug Store.)  Armstrong & Dunham have fitted up the commodious rooms over Wooster’s Drug Store, in the most superb style, for the purpose of carrying on both Daguerreotyping and Dentistry.  In both branches of the business they will give the fullest satisfaction, or no charge will be made.  They feel confident in saying that they can compete with Cleveland or Sandusky in the execution of their work, and at much less prices.  Call and see us when you come to town.

Those wishing to get good Daguerreotypes had better be about it.  Dunham leaves this country next April, and if there are those who want him to take their likenesses, they must be in a hurry.  Perfect satisfaction warranted.  Good pictures for a little money.  Come while Dunham is here.  Over Wooster’s Drug Store.

The fourth advertisement ran from March 30 to June 16, 1855.  Daguerrean and Dental Room, (Over Wooster’s Drug Store.)  Armstrong & Dunham have fitted up the commodious rooms over Wooster’s Drug Store, in the most superb style, for the purpose of carrying on both Daguerreotyping and Dentistry.  In both branches of the business they will give the fullest satisfaction, or no charge will be made.  They feel confident in saying that they can compete with Cleveland or Sandusky in the execution of their work, and at much less prices.  Call and see us when you come to town.

Armstrong & Dunham are not recorded in other photographic directories as being active in Plymouth, Ohio.  Craig’s Daguerreian Registry does list a John Armstrong as an Itinerant daguerreian in Ohio without an activity date or location.  It is unknown if they are the same person. 

H. Armington

Daguerreotypes, , , ,

1846                Address, Unknown, Pawtucket, Rhode, Island.[1]

1848                19 Westminster Street, Providence, Rhode Island,[2]

1850                Sagamore Building, near the Central Building, Lynn, Massachusetts.

H. Armington was record in a manuscript letter to Southworth & Hawes on October 13, 1846 and one advertisement.  The Manuscript letter from H. Armington & Co. To Southworth & Hawes formerly in Matthew R. Isenburg Collection.[3] 

Pawtucket Mass. Oct. 13th 1846 Messrs.  Southworth & Hawes, Gents, We have seen in pictures in Providence said to have been taken with “quickstuff” prepared and sold by you, which we liken the appearance of very much.  We wish you to send us a bottle of the same with the directions necessary for using it.  If we could produce the same results with it as those we saw in Providence should like to make use of it altogether,

Please write us your lowest price for Scovilles No. 1 Medium Plates.  Also cheapest Medium satin cases also Velvet good articles.

Yours Respectfully, H. Armington & Co.

The advertisement was recorded on April 26, 1850 in the Lynn News (Lynn, Massachusetts).

Daguerreotype Gallery, In The Sagamore Building, near the Central Building, Lynn.  J. H. Currier, Daguerrian Artists, having procured of his late partner, Mr. Armington, his large German Instrument, is now prepared to execute Miniatures of all styles, in groups or single, on small or the largest sized plates that are used.

As a most certain guarantee that he will satisfy his customers, he invites a scrutinizing examination of his specimens, and a trial of his skill by patronage, as he warrants his pictures to be satisfactory, and unexcelled at any other gallery in the country—his customers and their friends being the judges.  Lynn, February 1, 1850.

H. Armington is recorded in other photographic directories in 1846 and 1848, but not in 1850.

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

[2] Craigs Daguerreian Registry.  In partnership as Baker (Elisha W.) & Armstrong.

[3] Letter sent from Pawtucket, Rhode Island.

Benajah Jay Antrim

Daguerreotypes, ,

1855-1856       Rose Lane, East side of King Street, Honolulu, Hawaii.

Benajah Jay Antrim was recorded in two announcement and three advertisements in The Polynesian (Honolulu, Hawaii).  The first announcement appeared on March 10, 1855. 

Passengers.  By the Francis Palmer, from S. F.—B. J. Antrim.

The first advertisement ran from May 5, 1855 to May 3, 1856.  B. Jay Antrim, Daguerrean Artist, Located on Rose Lane, east side of King street, opposite the Bethel, Honolulu.

Pictures taken in every variety of the art, by the latest improved methods. 

The second announcement appeared on August 4, 1855.  The Honolulu Sailor’s Home.  Laying the Corner Stone.  The 31st of July, our Restoration Day was selected as a time appropriate for laying the Corner Stone of the Sailor’s Home.  We saw it all from our own window; it is not often the “makings” of news come so near to the newspaper office.  It was quite pretty looking down upon the well dressed crowd of people in carriages, on horseback and on foot…

Mr. Antrim took from one of our windows a daguerreotype picture of the scene at the moment the stone was being laid.    

The second advertisement ran from November 17, 1855 to February 16, 1856.  Daguerreotypes.  Prices Reduced at the Excelsior Gallery, located on Rose Lane, east side of King-street, opposite the Bethel Church.

Thankful for past favors, the undersigned takes this method of soliciting for a limited time, the patronage of the citizens and visitors of Honolulu, assuring them that strict application has been made to every new feature of the Art, calculated to finish first-class Portraits, Miniatures, and Views for all who may desire them, by the latest and most satisfactory mode of operating in the United States.  Gallery open from 8 A. M. to 4 P. M.  Cloudy weather no detriment.

Call and examine the specimens of Rose Lane Gallery.  B. J. Antrim.

The third advertisement ran on April 5 & 12, 1856.  To the Citizens on Honolulu.  This is to inform the citizens Honolulu, that Mr. Benson, will continue the Daguerrean Art on Rose Lane, after April 14th, 1856.

We would return our sincere thanks to our patrons, and recommend Mr. B., as worthy of their patronage.  B. Jay Antrim, & co.

Benajah Jay Antrim is recorded in other photographic directories.

Mr. & Miss Andrews

Daguerreotypes, ,

1850-1851       Over Sanger’s New Store, Ottawa, Illinois.

Mr. & Miss Andrews were recorded in two advertisements and one announcement in The Ottawa Free Trader (Ottawa, Illinois).  The first advertisement ran from December 7, 1850 to January11, 1851.  Daguerrean Gallery.  Mr. & Miss Andrews would respectfully inform the Ladies and Gentlemen of Ottawa and vicinity that they have unsurpassed facilities for taking Likenesses, at their rooms over Sanger’s New Store.

Please call and see Specimens. 

Daguerreotypes, Paintings, &c., accurately copied.

Likenesses set in plain and Fancy Cases, Frames, Lockets, &c.

Sick Persons and corpses attended at private houses when desired.

The announcement appeared on December 21, 1850.  Andrews’ Daguerrean Gallery.  We have had the pleasure of visiting Mr. Andrews’ rooms over Sanger’s new store and inspecting his pictures, which we found to be of superior or quality.—we would earnestly recommend to such of our citizens who are desirous of procuring miniatures, either of themselves, friends, or their children, to give him a call.  His terms are reasonable, and the quality of his pictures and cases vary to suit all who may desire them.  He has taken the rooms he occupies with a view of remaining her permanently, and it is hoped that he may receive a liberal patronage.  See his advertisement.

The second advertisement ran from March 8, 1851 to April 12, 1851.  Andrews’ Daguerrean Gallery In Sanger’s block, up stairs.  Likenesses taken in the best and latest style of the art; and set in plain and fancy Cases, Frames, Lockets, &c., &c.

Mr. & Miss Andrews are not recorded in other photographic directories.

Ambrose Andrews

Daguerreotypes, Portrait Painter, , , ,

1852-1853       122 Canal, New York, New York.

Ambrose Andrews was listed or not listed in the New York City Directories, Vose Archives, and The New York Historical Society’s Dictionary Of Artists in America 1564-1860.  The first directory I looked at was the1849-1850 Doggett’s New York City Directory where Ambrose Andrews, is listed as a Portrait Painter, at 25 Lispenard.

The second was the 1850-1851 Doggett’s New York City Directory.  Where he was not listed in directory.

The third directory was the 1851-1852 Doggett’s & Rode New York City Directory where he is listed as an artist, at 122 Canal.

The fourth directory was the 1852-1853 Wilson & Trow New York City Directory where he is listed as a daguerreotypes, at 122 Canal.

The fifth directory was the 1853-1854 Wilson & Trow New York City Directory where he is listed as a daguerreotypes, at 122 Canal.

The sixth directory was the 1854-1855 Wilson & Trow New York City Directory where he was not listed in directory.

The Vose Archives, Boston, Massachusetts was at the time an unpublished database that Seth Vose shared with me in 1994.

Andrews, Ambrose (born West Stockbridge, MA 19 July 1801—died probably E. Palmyra, NY ca 1877).

Subject:  portrait, miniature, landscape. 

Media:  oil, water color.

Studied:  American Acad. of Fine Arts, NYC Oct-Nov. 1824, New York Drawing Assoc. NYC 1825; NAD, NYC 1826.

Worked:  West Stockbridge, Ma c. 1820-25, c 1833-36; Schuylerville, NY 1824; NYC 1825-26; 1848-62; Pa. 1827; Troy, NY 1829-31; Middletown, CT 1835; New Haven, CT 1837; Houston, TX 1837-41; New Orleans, LA 1841-42, 1844; Cincinnati, OH 1843; St. Louis, MO 1844-48; E. Palmyra, NY 1869-c 1877.

Active:  1824-c. 1877

Comments…In NYC during 1850’s did daguerreotyping and colored photographs.

Ambrose Andrews is not recorded in other photographic directories.

Mr. Allen

Daguerreotypes, ,

1847 Rooms at Mr. Silas T. Ketcham’s, Huntington, New York.

Mr. Allen was recorded in one announcement and one advertisement in The Long Islander (Huntington, New York). The announcement appeared on July 2, 1847. Daguerreotypes. –we wish to add our moiety of praise to Mr. Allen’s specimen’s of this art.  To those who wish a facsimile of the “human face divine,” we would say, procure one without delay—and we know of no better way of paying a real compliment to a Lady, than to solicit her picture, and no greater acceptance of one’s own.  It strikes us, this would be an admirable manner of “popping the question”—and to those who intend visiting our village on the 5th, we would say call on Mr. Allen, we can vouch for his ability in the art.  The specimens we have examined, are sufficient recommendation of his efficiency.  See advertisement in another column.

The advertisement appeared on  July 2, 1847.  Allen’s United States Branch Daguerrian Gallery, Is now open at Mr. Silas T. Ketcham’s, in the village of Hunting, where he will that Daguerreotype portraits in the best manner.  Having by long experience in the business [ ?  ] improvements that have been made in the art, both in this country and in Europe—together with some valuable discoveries he has made in the art, enabled him to guarantee a Likeness not to be surpassed.

Copies taken from portraits, and painted, or Daguerreotype miniatures.

He will take likenesses for insertion in Rings, Breast Pins, Lockets or Bracelets.       

Lockets, Rings and Breast Pins for Daguerreotypes, on hand, which he will sell at reduced prices.

The Ladies and Gentlemen of Huntington, and the public in general are invited to call and examine his specimens.  Likenesses taken in all kinds of weather, and in all cases warranted perfect or no charge.—likenesses taken of the sick or deceased persons, at their residences, on the shortest notice.

N. B. Instructions given in the art.  Apparatus, chemicals of every kind, furnished at the lowest cash prices.                                          

Mr. Allen is not recorded in other photographic directories as being active in Huntington, New York in 1847.  It is possible this is William A. Allen active in Brooklyn, New York in 1848. And in New York City in 1849-1852.

Jonathan Allen

Ambrotypes, Daguerreotypes, Photographs, , , , , ,

1856-1859       Main Street, Foot of Canal Street, Webster’s Building, Fort Plain, New York.

1857                Main Street, Canajoharie, New York.

1859                Address Unknown, Minden, New York[1]

Jonathan Allen was recorded in eight advertisements in the Mohawk Valley Register (Fort Plain, New York).  The first advertisement ran from March 6, 1856 to January 29, 1857.  Attention The Lost Found—the Secret Out!  “There is nothing hidden but that shall be revealed.  J. Allen would announce to the public that he is now prepared to take Daguerreotypes, Ambrotypes & Chromotypes.  The latter being a new style of Picture just brought to perfection.  They are taken on glass and no colored as to resemble oil paintings on ivory.  They will not fade, corrode at sea or change in any climate, are beautiful in tone, bold and clear in effect, and can be seen in any light as can also the Ambrotypes which he now takes in the latest improved style.  The public are invited to call at his rooms and examine specimens and judge for themselves.

Rooms foot of Canal street, in Webster’s Building.

The second advertisement ran from January 1, 1857 to April 8, 1858.  Fort Plain Business Cards.  J. Allen, Ambrotypist, and manufacturer of Guilt Frames, Main, Foot of Canal St.

The third advertisement ran from January 29 to April 23, 1857.  The Shadow. The Shadow. The Shadow. The Shadow. The Shadow. The Shadow.  Allen’s Pictures.  Allen’s Pictures. Allen’s Pictures.  Allen’s Pictures.  Allen’s Pictures.  Allen’s Pictures.  Allen’s Pictures.  Premium  Premium  Premium  Premium  Premium  Premium   Premium  Premium  Premium  Premium

At the last Montgomery County Fair, held at Canajoharie in September 1856, the Committee on Ambrotypes awarded to J. Allen The first Premium for his pictures—being superior in tone and life-like expression to all others on exhibition; and all those who have had pictures of him coined with the verdict of the Awarding Committee.

Mr. Allen, (in connection with H. Wendell of Amsterdam) has secured the Exclusive Right of Mont. County, Patent Patent Patent Patent for the manufacture of Cutting’s Patent Ambrotypes, which patent consists in the method of securing them from the action of the atmosphere, and rendering them durable by sealing the picture between two plate glass with a substance which soon hardens and becomes impervious to air, dust and water.

Beware Of Worthless Imitations!      

Beware Of Worthless Imitations!      

Beware Of Worthless Imitations!

Beware Of Worthless Imitations!

All Ambrotypes taken by any other method than Cutting’s patent are worthless imitations.  Some unskilled artists endeavor to evade the patent by palming the public pictures taken upon single glass and coating it with varnish which has a bad effect upon the chemicals and cause the picture to lose its luster in a short time.

Remember, Remember, Remember That the patent Premium Ambrotype may be had only of Allen, who has the exclusive right of the western portion of the County of Montgomery.

Pictures taken by Cutting’s Patent process possess the rare quality of imperishability—remaining unchanged for ages.  These pictures are pronounced to be the Greatest Improvement we have received in the Photographic Art since the days of Daguerre, having a clearness and relief that is truly astonishing.

Mr. Allen’s facilities for giving the public pictures of any size, are not surpassed in this section.  His stock of Cases and Frames comprise all the varieties—plain and fancy—to be found in market.

Our friends from the country, in visiting the village, are respectfully invited to give us a neighborly call in order to Examine our Specimens.  Examine our Specimens.  Examine our Specimens.  Memento.  Memento.  Memento.  Memento.  Memento.  Memento.  Memento.  Memento  We guarantee that no one, unless so desolate and discarded that he has not a solitary friend on earth, will be willing to depart without taking another self with him as a memento to present to some cherished one.

A first class likeness will be admired and treasured up long after almost every other kind of present is destroyed or forgotten—in fact growing more and more precious as each succeeding year rolls around, and with each anniversary recalling to memory the exact features of those we love.

Gilt Frames, Gilt Frames, Gilt Frames. 

A large stock of Gilt Mouldings, of various styles will constantly be kept on hand, and Frames of any size made to order, on short notice, and for reasonable prices.

Allen’s Rooms may be found in Webster’s Building, on Main St., foot of Canal St., Fort Plain, and on Main St., at the sign of the Red, White and Blue,” Canajoharie.

The fourth advertisement ran from May 9 to November 5, 1857.  1857.  Look Ye Here All Lovers Of Fine Pictures!  Seven different towns, fair cities of the earth, Strive for the fame of mighty Homer’s birth; But none the hard contested claim can prove; Two native place of Homer is above!  Before thy friends do vanish from thy sight, and go where Homer is, in realms of light, Secure their picture, as a treasure-prize, With budding lips and bright life-like eyes. 

Allen’s Premium Pictures Melainotypes and Ambrotypes!!  J. Allen would inform his patrons and the public generally that being determined to keep up with “Young America,” and not to be outdone, even in the large cities, he has secured the right, and is now prepared to make another New Style Of Picture, called Melainotype, which is a most beautiful specimen of the sun’s penciling.

The more delicate lineaments of the image are portrayed with a faithfulness surpassing that of the most brilliant Daguerreotype; the glowing tints of nature are blended in sublime harmony; all is here presented with the warmest penciling of Nature.  She has proven herself the Model Artist and gathered charm from all of her own creation, blending, by a single effort, in bold relief.

Beauties that no hand can equal portraying each feature with such exactness, as to seemingly create substance from shadow.  No true lover of nature will contemplate these specimens without feeling a lively admiration of the warm-toned and brilliant life-like effect they produced.  A continued look upon the wonders of art will fill the beholder with sublime enthusiasm, and bring the thought to his mind, “can Nature create such perfect self, and refuse a soul to feel and a tongue to speak?”

The subscriber has constantly on hand a Full assortment of Cases both Plain and Fancy, and all styles of Gilt Frames, all of which will be sold at reasonable prices, and filled with superior Melainotypes or Ambrotypes.

Gilt Frames.  A good assortment of moldings both Gilt and Plain constantly on hand, so that frames of all sizes and styles can be had on short notice.

Also a fine assortment of Lithographs & Steel Plates For Grecian Oil Painting. 

All Work Warranted.

Rooms open from 8 o’clock, A. M., to 6, P. M., and may be found in Webster’s Building, on Main St., foot of Canal St., Fort Plain.  J. Allen.  Fort Plain, May 1, 1857.

The fifth advertisement ran from November 12, 1857 to March 11, 1858.  A P P G stands For Allen’s Premium Picture Gallery.  Owing to the high price of money, J. Allen has reduced the price for Pictures and invites the attention of the public anew to his unequalled facilities for taking Pictures in the most tasty, artistical and complete style of the Photographic art.—His reception and dressing rooms will always be found Comfortable and Pleasant in all kinds of weather; his operating room is spacious and furnished with superior Sky and Side Lights, and all the requisite materials for that department; and his chemical room contains the choicest Foreign and American Chemicals, Glass, &c.

The patented Ambrotypes are considered the best picture extant.  They will last for ages unchanged, and possess the rare quality of imperishability. Being taken on plate glass, which is placed on a corresponding glass, the two being hermetically sealed together with an indestructible cement, which soon hardens and the two glasses become in effect one, with the picture in the center, as durable as glass itself.  The patent Ambrotype is particularly adapted to any kind of face and complexion, and has a clearness and relief that is truly astonishing.

Those desiring Perfect and Lasting Likenesses of themselves or friends, would do well to call and avail themselves of An Experienced Artist with a laboratory of pure chemicals, piles of superior stock, good lights, and best invented instruments. 

His rooms will be open at all business hours of the day.

Copies of Paintings, Portraits, Miniatures &c., executed in an unrivalled manner.

He has constantly on hand a Full assortment of Cases, both Plain and Fancy, and all styles of Gilt Frames, all of which will be sold at reasonable prices, and filled with superior Melainotypes or Ambrotypes.

Gilt Frames.  A good assortment of moldings both Gilt and Plain constantly on hand, so that frames of all sizes and styles can be had on short notice.

Also a fine assortment of Lithographs & Steel Plates For Grecian Oil Painting. 

All Work Warranted. 

His Rooms may be found in Webster’s Building, on Main St., foot of Canal St., Fort Plain. J. Allen.  Fort Plain, November 1, 1857.

The sixth advertisement ran from April 15, 1858 to April 21, 1859.  Fort Plain Business Cards.  J. Allen, Daguerreian Artists.—Likenesses Of the most approved style taken and warranted to give satisfaction.  Gilt Frames of all styles and sizes made to order.  Rooms in the Webster Building, Main-St.

The advertisement ran from August 19 to November 11, 1858.  New Attractions At J. Allen’s Picture Gallery.  The subscriber has recently procured the necessary Apparatus and Chemicals for taking Superior Photographs, which are without doubt the best pictures made.  Being taken on paper they bear a great resemblance to steel engravings, as they are deep-toned, clear and bold and can be view in any light, unlike pictures of other descriptions.  They are Warranted not to fade or change!  In other places where they have been introduced the changes for making this style of picture have been more than for Ambrotypes, but in order to introduce them the subscriber will furnish them at the same Prices As For Ambrotypes, of the same size, and should a person want a number of duplicates he will furnish them At A Much Lower Figure.  But one setting is required for any number of pictures that may be desired.

A cordial invitation is extended to all to call at his office and examine specimens.

Superior Ambrotypes are still taken, at prices varying from 60 cts. to $8.

A long experience in this business renders him capable of giving good satisfaction.

Ambrotypes put in Rings, Lockets, &c., and warranted.

Pictures taken of Invalids and Deceased Persons at their residence, on short notice.

Gilt, Rosewood, & Plain Frames of all sizes and styles, and fitted out with Glass, Cord and Tassels, manufactured on short notice, Lithographs and Steel Plate Engravings in great variety, for ornament or for Grecian Oil Painting constantly on hand, and for sale at reasonable prices.

Caution.—If you would secure Pictures the most durable and perfect, you should avoid patronizing persons of little experience, and Rooms where economy in space and light is certain to render the picture blunt in shade and harsh in tone.—Mr. Allen’s Rooms are ample, his light so arranged as to blend the picture in the most harmonious manner, and his long experience a sure guaranty of artistic excellence.        

Satisfaction Given In All Cases.  Call and examine the numerous specimens at his Rooms. J. Allen.  Fort Plain, August 19, 1858.

The eighth advertisement ran from June 23 to December 29, 1859.  Fort Plain Business Cards.  J. Allen, Photograph & Ambrotype Rooms, in the Webster Building, over Lipe’s Crockery Store.

Gilt and Rosewood Picture Frames of all sizes and styles manufactured to order.

Jonathan Allen is recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry as being active in Fort Plain and Minden, New York in 1859 without business addresses.

[1] Craig’s Daguerreian Registry.

J. C. Alexander

Daguerreotypes, ,

1852                Rooms on Court, between Front and Second streets, over Mrs. Worcester’s Notion Store, Portsmouth, Ohio.

1852                Rooms in Mr. Dugan’s New Building, Market Street, Portsmouth, Ohio.

1852                Rooms on Second Street, above Market opposite the Farmer’s Hotel, Portsmouth, Ohio.

J. C. Alexander was recorded in three advertisements and one announcement in The Portsmouth Inquirer (Portsmouth, Ohio).  The first advertisement appeared on April 2, 1852.  Daguerreotypes, J. C. Alexander, Would respectfully inform the citizens of Portsmouth and surrounding country, that he is now prepared to take Daguerreotypes in a manner superior to any offered in said city.

He has secured at a heavy expense the latest and most valuable discoveries in the art,—one of which is a newly discovered chemical, which gives to pictures a natural flesh color, and makes the richest drapery ever taken by Daguerreotype Process.  With his new improvements, his practice, skill, and desire to please, he flatters himself he cannot fail to give satisfaction.

Ladies and Gentlemen Are solicited to call and examine his specimens particularly those which he has taken in this place.

Having the advantage of a skylight, he can take pictures light or dark, and with or without a shade, to suit the fancy of customers.  Hours of Operation, from 8 o’clock A. M. to 4 P. M.  Instructions in the Art, will be given, with the entire apparatus for operating, on very moderate terms.  Rooms on Court, between Front and Second streets, over Mrs. Worcester’s “Notion Store.”  Portsmouth, March 29, 1852.

The second advertisement ran from August 13 to 20, 1852.  J. C. Alexander, Daguerreotypist, Is again on the track, and can’t be run off it.  He is now making pictures that cannot be beaten, East nor West.  Having had the 3d story of Mr. Dugan’s new building, on Market street, fitted up expressly for a Daguerrean Gallery.

With a large North and a Sky-light combined, which is acknowledged by all No. 1 artists to be far superior to any other, and a new combination of chemicals [discovered by himself and known to no other] far surpassing any now in use, as may be seen by calling at his rooms and examining likenesses of our own citizens just taken in his New Gallery, he is satisfied that he can make as good a picture as any artist extant.

Having concluded to remain in Portsmouth, he is determined that no picture shall leave his gallery unless it is O. K.  Persons examining his specimens will please remember that they were taken by himself and not by Mr. Root, of Philadelphia, though they are as good as any ever taken by that celebrated artist and brought to this place. 

Ladies and Gentlemen of town and country are respectfully solicited to call and examine for themselves, the operator feeling assured that if they once see the beautiful flesh color and lite-like appearance of his specimens, they will not fail to have their own picture taken. 

N. B.  Pictures taken in all kinds of weather, and warranted good.  Instructions given in the art, and the entire apparatus furnished, if desired.  Rooms on Market street, 5 doors below 2d st.  Portsmouth, Aug. 12, 1852.

The announcement appeared on November 26, 1852.  J. C. Alexander is now prepared to take daguerreotypes at one dollar each, in the room formerly occupied by Stephenson’s book bindery.  See advertisement in another column.

The third advertisement ran from November 26 to December 24, 1852.  Daguerreotypes, J. C. Alexander Has reduced the price of pictures to One dollar, and is now ready to accommodate the public with an article superior to any ever offered to the citizens of Portsmouth by other operators.

Pictures reduced for a short time only.  The public are respectfully invited to call and examine specimens.  N. B.—A first-rate apparatus on hand which will be sold below cost.  Instructions given in the art for fifteen dollars.  Rooms on Second st, above Market opposite the Farmer’s Hotel.           Nov. 23, 1852.

J. C. Alexander is not recorded in other photographic directories.

L. Aldridge

Daguerreotypes, ,

1846                82 Merrimack Street, Lowell, Massachusetts.

L. Aldridge was recorded in three advertisements and one announcement.  The first advertisement appeared in the Lowell Daily (Lowell, Massachusetts) on May 29, 1846.   

Daguerreotype Miniature Rooms, 82 Merrimack Street.  L. Aldridge, Would invite the attention of the public to splendid Miniatures now being daily executed at his Rooms.  The late improvements which he has made in polishing the plates, enables him to take the finest and best pictures that this beautiful and valuable art can produce.

N. B.  Gold And Plated Lockets kept constantly on hand, and cheaper than can be found in the City.

The public are respectfully invited to call and examine specimens.

The announcement appeared on June 10, 1846 also in the Lowell Daily.  Mr. Aldridge, at his Daguerreotype Miniature Rooms, 82 Merrimack street, has lately added to his collection some splendid pictures of several of our own citizens.  Give him a call.

The second and third advertisement in The Niagara (Lowell, Massachusetts).  The second advertisement appeared on July 25, 1846.  Daguerreotype Miniature Rooms!  No. 82 Merrimack Street, Lowell. L. Aldridge, Would invite the attention of the public to splendid Miniatures now being daily exhibited at his Rooms.  The late improvements which he has made in polishing the plates, enables him to take the Finest and Best Pictures that this beautiful and valuable art can produce.

Gold And Plated Lockets kept constantly on hand, and cheaper than can be found in the City.

The public are respectfully invited to call and examine specimens.

And the third appeared on August 22, 1846. 

Daguerreotype Miniatures—Again.  I noticed in your No. of August 15th [1, an article which seems to come from a fool source, or from some one a little out of humor.  The first important statement is that a “gentleman”(?) At No. 20 Merrimack street exhibits pictures taken by Thompson, Artist, as his own.  In re[ply] to this, I would say, I have proof ample and abundant that I have not one picture in my show-cases, or about my door, except my own likeness (for which I made every preparation,) but was taken by myself.  I presume Mr. A., whose name is mentioned in the article referred to, will not pretend that I have had better pictures than I now have—if he does, I can easily give satisfaction on that point.  The next important statement is, that the stock recently purchased by me is “nearly good for nothing,”—a sufficient portion of which I now have, to make this statement a perfect libel.  Among what I now have at my rooms, purchased in the very lot referred to, is one large German Camera of the best quality ever imported—the same instrument with which those pictures were taken, whose location so much displeases Mr. A.  But then, Mr. A., you need not be too much alarmed!  Just hand over the $100 you offer, and I will take one or one dozen, as good pictures as you marvel at, and then learn you in less than one year to take quite respectable Daguerreotype Miniatures.The Man At The Old Stand, No. 20 Merrimack street, Lowell.  Aug. 20, 1846.

L. Aldridge is not recorded in other photographic directories.

[1] Issue not available at the time of posting (12-27-2021)