1845                15 Dow’s Building, Albany, New York.[1]

1845-1846       85 Genesee Street, Auburn, New York.

1848-1850       480 Broadway, Albany, New York.

1850-1852       247 Broadway, New York, New York.

1852                192 Broadway, corner John Street, New York, New York.

1845 November 15.  Portsmouth Journal of Literature and Politics.  (Portsmouth, New

Hampshire.)  November 15, 1845, Vol. LVI, No. 46, P. 1.

Domestic Industry.  Almost every person among us who is acquainted with the industry of our country on a large scale, is in favor of continuing the operation of those laws which give it encouragement; and under which it is generally prosperous.  A perusal of the following extracts from the recent speech of Mr. Tallmadge at New-York, will astonish many who know but little of the magnitude or the variety of our manufactures.

Gen. Tallmadge’s Address At The Close Of The Fair Of The Institute At New York…

So of the wonderful improvement in Daguerreotyping; a few years since we knew no more about it than the man in the moon; and now Messrs. Haas, Plumbe, Anthony & Edwards, Gavitt, Brady, &c. have far surpassed all French Daguerreotypes…

1845 December 3.  Auburn Journal and Advertiser.  (Auburn, New York.)  December 3, 1845, Vol. 13, No. 31, P. 2.

Gavit’s Daguerreotype Gallery.  Mr. Oliphant,—I last week visited the Daguerreotype Gallery of D. E. Gavit, late of Albany.  Although I Have had the pleasure of seeing many fine specimens of this beautiful art.  I never saw any, that for magnificence of execution, and faithfulness of representation would compare with those taken by Mr. Gavit.  His pictures unlike those taken by most other artist, present every feature as perfect as they exist in the person taken.  The eyes, the expression of the countenance, and the complexion, are all taken perfectly, which in my opinion render them equal, if not superior to the best Miniature Likenesses upon ivory.  And I sincerely hope Mr. Gavit may receive that patronage from the citizens of this village, which his talents and his superiority in his business deserve.  Auburn, Dec. 1, 1845.         G. L. F.

We insert the above with pleasure, conscious that by such course we are but doing an act of justice to Mr. G., whose beautiful specimens of the perfection to which this recently discovered art has been brought, deserve the highest praise.  The reader is referred also to his advertisement.

1845 December 3.  Auburn Journal and Advertiser.  (Auburn, New York.)  December 3, 1845, Vol. 13, No. 31, P. 3.

Daguerreotype.  Daniel E. Gavit, Premium Photographist, late of the firm of Walker & Gavit, Albany, respectfully informs the citizens of Auburn, that he has opened his Gallery at No. 85 Genesee street, up stairs, for a limited term of Ten Days, and will be happy to wait on those who require his services and will favor him with their patronage.

The Gallery contains perhaps, the largest and most unique variety of specimens ever exhibited in Western New York; containing many of our most eminent statesmen and others, all taken from life, viz: Hon. Henry Clay, Hon. Martin Van Buren, Hon. John Quincy Adams, Hon. Theodore Frelinghuysen, Hon. John C. Spencer, Hon. John C. Spencer, Hon. Silas Wright, Hon. Wm. H. Steward, Hon. Wm. L. Marcy, Hon. Wm. C. Bouck, Hon. C. Morgan, Gov. Briggs of Mass., Judge Miller, Judge Bacon, Nathaniel S. Benton, A. C. Flagg, Hugh Halsey, Gen McNeil, Edwin Croswell, Horace Greeley, Henry Phillips the Vocalist, Bishop Heding, Clark Robinson, and a great number of Ladies and others too numerous to mention in an advertisement.

Copies taken from any of the above for those who wish it at a reasonable charge.

He will add that his pictures have received the Highest Honors wherever they have been exhibited, and at the late Fair of the American Institute, in New York, they were pronounced Superior To All Others, by 20,000 visitors.  A visit to the establishment is respectfully solicited from All.

Every article used in the business, for sale on the most reasonable terms.  Instructions thoroughly given, and Pupils advanced as fast as practicable.

Views of Buildings, Cattle, Horses, and most any thing taken correctly.

Portraits of sick or deceased Persons, taken at their residences when required.  From a list of recommendations from the Press and others, please call at the Galleries.  Auburn, Dec. 3, 1845.

1845 December 10.  Auburn Journal and Advertiser.  (Auburn, New York.)  December 10, 1845, Vol. 13, No. 32, P. 2.

Daguerreotype.—In consequence of the liberal patronage received from the citizens of Auburn, for which he begs leave to return his sincere thanks, and to accommodate those who wish to sit, the subscriber has determined to remain a few day longer.

Those who require his services are requested to call immediately, as he assures them his stay is limited.  D. E. Gavit, Galleries No. 85 Genesee-st., up stairs.

Advertisement ran from December 10, 1845 to January 7, 1846.

1845 December 24.  Auburn Journal and Advertiser.  (Auburn, New York.)  December 24, 1845, Vol. 13, No. 34, P. 2.

Mr. Editor,—A correspondent in your last, in alluding to the Daguerreotype Gallery of Mr. Gavit, quotes the old saying, that a “new broom sweeps clean.”  I believe all who have seen Mr. G’s specimens in the art alluded to, up to the present time, will concur with me in the remark that his broom has so far the advantage of many others that have been known in this section, that it still retains its newness and freshness.

1848 September 11.  New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  September 11, 1848, Whole No. 5213, P. 1.

Another Fire In Albany.  [From The Albany Atlas, September 9.]

About 2 o’clock this morning, a fire broke out in the the splendid block of buildings, Nos. 480 and 482 Broadway, a door or two north of the Mansion House, belonging to the estate of Samuel Fisk, Esq., and occupied by Mulford & Wendell, jewelers; R. W. Freeman, tailor; Samuel Stevens, law office; Mr. Delancey, and the Daguerrean room of Mr. D. Gavitt… 

1849 October.  Eighth Annual Report Of The American Institute, Of The City Of New York.  (Albany, New York.)  1850, P. 25 & 46.

List Of Premiums Awarded By The Managers Of The Twenty-Second Annual Fair Of The American Institute, October 1849…Daguerreotypes.

M. B. Brady, 205 Broadway, for the best daguerreotypes.  Gold Medal.

M. A. Root, Philadelphia, Penn., for the second best daguerreotypes.  Silver Medal.

D. E. Gavit, Albany, N. Y., for daguerreotypes.  Diploma.

1850 August 13.  New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  August 13, 1850, Whole No. 5908, P. 5.

President Millard Fillmore.—Just published, an admirable portrait of the President of the United States, executed by Crehen, after a beautiful daguerreotype taken by Gavit.  Price of each copy $1.  Goupel, Vibert & Co., 289 Broadway.

Advertisement ran from August 13 to 16, 1850.

1850 September 13.  New York Semi-Weekly Tribune.  (New York, New York.)  September 13, 1850, Vol. IV, No. 32, Whole No. 344, P. 2.

Another Fire In Albany.—The Evening Journal says, James Kidd’s beautiful building, Nos. 480 and 482 Broadway, was destroyed by fire on Saturday morning.  The upper part of the building was occupied in part by S. Stephens, Esq. as a law Office, Gavitt & Co. Daguerreotypists, and several persons.  Nearly all the property in the building was insured.…

1850 September 13.  New York Daily Tribune.  (New York, New York.)  September 13, 1850, Vol. X, No. 2885, P. 4.

A Daguerreotype.—We were shown yesterday an exquisite specimen of the excellence to which Daguerreotyping has been brought.  It was the portrait of a young girl, by Mr. D. E. Gavit, of Albany, to whom the first premium of a silver medal has just been awarded at the late State Fair in Albany.  The great merit of this Daguerreotype lies in the general softness and harmony of the shadows, the unconstrained ease of the attitude, and the life-like animation of the face.  It may be seen for a few days at Mr. Anthony’s, 205 Broadway.  Mr. Gavit, we learn, intends shortly establishing himself in this city.

1850 September 13.  Jamestown Journal.  (Jamestown, New York.)  September 13, 1850, Vol. XXV, No. 17, Whole No. 1,265, P. 2.

From the State Register.  The State Fair…Manufacturing Hall…

The daguerreotype business ought to be flourishing, by the handsome displays made by its practitioners.  In addition to Mr. D. E. Gavit’s mentioned yesterday, Messrs. Mead and Clark of this city, have both handsome collections of portraits.  Mr. D. D. T. Davis, of Utica, also exhibits a collection of Daguerreotypes, comprising some excellent likenesses of very distinguished persons and some beautiful portraits, [con] considered as works of art, of which the originals are unknown here.

1850 September 15.  The New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  September 15, 1850, Whole No. 5941, P. 3.

The State Fair.—We were shown, yesterday, a specimen of daguerreotypes from the gallery of Mr. D. E. Gavit, of Albany, and the one which won the first prize of a silver medal, at the late State fair.  It was a perfect specimen of the art, and shows the great perfection to which that branch has been brought.  Mr. G. also received a diploma for the best selection of pictures, all of which he has left at the store of Mr. Anthony, in Broadway, for public inspection.

1850 October.  Transactions Of The American Institute Of The City Of New York 1850. P.21 & 41.

List Of Premiums Awarded By The Managers Of The Twenty-Third Annual Fair Of The American Institute, October 1850…

Daguerreotypes. 

M. A. & S. Root, 363 Broadway, for the best daguerreotypes.  Silver medal.

J. Gurney, 189 Broadway

Meade Brothers, 233 Broadway,

Harrison & Holmes, 289 Broadway,

D. E. Gavit, 247 Broadway,

C. M. Cary, 187 Broadway

For excellent daguerreotypes, no difference being perceptible to the Judges.  Silver medal to each.

Meade Brothers, 239 Broadway, for superior chemically colored daguerreotypes.  Diploma.

Minors’ Work.

Thomas B. Atkins, 219 Fulton-street, Brooklyn, for daguerreotypes.  $5 and a certificate.

1850 October 25.  The New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  October 25, 1850, Whole No. 5980, P. 1.

Premiums Awarded at the Fair of the American Institute.  We give to-day a continuation of the list of premiums, of which we had not space for insertion yesterday.  To-morrow, we shall conclude it entire and make what comments we judge proper on the whole affair. 

Silver Medals:

Langenheim & Co., New York, best Talbotypes.

M. A. & S. Root, New York, Best daguerreotypes.

J. Gurney, New York, second best daguerreotypes.

Meade & Brothers, New York,  do           do.

Harrison & Holmes, New York, do           do.

D. E. Gavit, Albany, N. Y.,         do           do.

*C. M. Cary, New York,             do           do.

*possibly Preston M. Cary.

1850 November 5.  The Granite Farmer.  (Manchester, New Hampshire.)  November 5, 1850, Vol. I, No. 34, P. 5.

Fair of the American Institute…

Daguerreotypes.

Considerable space in the gallery is devoted to the exhibition of Daguerreotype pictures, as usual.  We have generally paid attention to the quality of the specimens, and, without wishing to disparage our city artists, we feel compelled to give the preference to Messrs. Roots’, of Philadelphia, and Mr. Gavitt’s, of Albany.  We last year paid a high compliment to the [skill] of Messrs. Roots, and we are pleased to notice, by a card, that they have opened a splendid gallery in this city, at No. 363 Broadway, corner of Franklin.  If any of our friends desire a perfect cemblance (sic.) of themselves, and a picture finished in the highest style of the art, we can assure them that they can obtain it at the above place.  Scientific American.

1850 November 14.  The New York Daily Tribune.  (New York, New York.)  November 14, 1850, Vol. X, No. 2989, P. 4.

Gavit’s Premium Daguerreotype, at the National Miniature Gallery, 247 Broadway, corner Murray, over Ball, Thompkins & Black’s.—The proprietor is pleased to announce, that after repeated requests from his friends in New York, he is now permanently located as above, where all who wish can procure his superior Photographs, which he will warrant to be equal in finish and artistical skill to any yet produced in this wonderful art.  The Gallery (which is formerly owned by Anthony, Clarke & Co.) is the most extensive in the world, and contains over one thousand portraits of the most eminent men of the age who are celebrated as statesmen, warriors, poets, artists, divines, heroes, etc., and is well worth a visit from all.  The proprietor will use his utmost endeavors to please all who honor him with their patronage, and no charge will be made without the utmost satisfaction is given. 

D. E. Gavit, successor to Langenheim & Co.

Having sold our Daguerreotype Establishment to Daniel E. Gavit, we beg leave to recommend our successor to our customers, being satisfied that he deserves the public patronage in the fullest degree.  Langenheim & Co.

1850 November 21.  The New York Daily Tribune.  (New York, New York.)  November 21, 1850, Vol. X, No. 2995, P. 4.

Daniel Webster.—A superior Portrait of this great statesman can be seen at the National Miniature Gallery.  Also Portraits just added of Washington Hunt and Horatio Seymour, the late rival candidates for Governor.  Come and see them at Gavit’s, late Anthony, Clarke & Co. 247 Broadway, corner Murray.

1850 November 21.  The New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  November 21, 1850, Whole No. 6007, P. 2.

Gavit, whose portraits were so extensively admired at the late fair of the American Institute, is now permanently located at the National Miniature Gallery, 247 Broadway, where those who wish can procure a perfect Daguerreotype, at all hours of the day.  The first prize, of a silver medal, was awarded those pictures, at the State Fair at Albany, and at the American Institute.  Late Anthony, Clark & Co., 247 Broadway, corner of Murray street.

1850 December 3.  New York Daily Tribune.  (New York, New York.)  December 3, 1850, Vol. X, No. 3005, P. 4.

Andrew Jackson, Gen. Taylor, Jas. K. Polk, Chancellor Kent, Silas Wright.—Portraits of the above, taken from life, can be seen at Gavit’s National Miniature Gallery, 247 Broadway, over Ball Thompson & Black.

1850 December 3.  The New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  December 3, 1850, Whole No. 6019, P. 2.

The two highest medals for 1850, for the best Daguerreotype exhibited at the two last Fairs, held at Castle Garden and the State Fair at Albany, were awarded to D. E. Gavit, of the National Miniature Gallery, 247 Broadway—come and see them together with the largest and most elegant collection in the world.  Remember 247 Broadway, over Ball, Thompson & Black.

1850 December 4.  The New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  December 4, 1850, Whole No. 6020, P. 2.

Gavit’s Daguerreotype.—Don’t be deceived or humbugged by those who profess to be Napoleons, Kings, Lyons, &c., but go and examine for yourselves, and give your patronage to that establishment where you are convinced you can get the utmost perfection of the art.  Be sure to call at the National Miniature Gallery, 247 Broadway.  No charge without the utmost satisfaction.

16 December 1850.  The Evening Post.  (New York, New York.)  December 16, 1850, Vol. XLIX, P. 2.

Gavit’s National Miniature Gallery, 247 Broadway, cor. Murray st. (Formerly Anthony, Clarke & Co.)

This establishment, the largest and most celebrated in the country, is now conducted by the subscriber, who pledges himself that its former enviable reputation shall be fully sustained, and that every picture will combine all the requisite perfection that the advancement of this elegant art is capable of producing.

This gallery contains over 1,000 portraits of the most distinguished men of the age, who are celebrated as statesmen, poets, authors, divines, heroes, orators, &c. and is well worthy a visit from all.

Those who patronize this establishment, are assured that pictures are as represented, and that we don’t depend on the usual gasconade and humbug of the day for business; and if the utmost satisfaction is not given to each patron, no charge is made.  Just received, a few elegant styles of cases, etc., for holiday presents.  D. E. Gavit, Proprietor.

Advertisement ran from December 16, 1850 to January 4, 1851.

23 December 1850.  The Evening Post.  (New York, New York.)  December 23, 1850, Vol. XLIX, P. 2.

Holiday Articles….—Among the many pleasing articles which may be presented as Gifts for the Holidays, we know of none more pleasing or appropriate than daguerreotype likenesses.  A reference to our advertising columns will give the names of some of the best daguerreotypist in New York, where accurate likenesses may be obtained at a little more than a minutes sitting, and at a moderate cost.  Among these we may mention the following names:  Holmes, 259 Broadway, who receives an extensive public patronage; Gavit’s daguerrean gallery, where may be seen the portraits of several of the notabilities of this and other countries.  Accurate portraits may also be obtained at the daguerrean rooms over J. J. Cox’s store, 349, where every convenience and requisite necessary for the taking of perfect likenesses may be found.  In addition to the daguerreotypists above named, we would recommend Mr. Gurney’s gallery, 189 Broadway, which is the oldest establishment of the kind in the city.  Color types on Ivory, glass and paper, are also taken here at a short sitting.  The gallery, No. 363 Broadway, is well worthy of a visit from those desiring a superior article.  Here may be seen several portraits of Jenny Lind, and other celebrities of the day.  Mr. Root exhibits no less than six medals, as testimonials of his services in the art.

1850 December 31.   The New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  December 31, 1850, Whole No. 6045, P. 1.

American Industry in a Crystal Palace.  World’s Fair, London, 1851.

Articles Approved By The Local Committee Of The State Of New York, With Name And

Residence Of Exhibitor.

O. B. Evans, Buffalo, Daguerreotypes.

Meade & Brothers, New York, Daguerreotypes.

D. E. Gavit, New York, Daguerreotypes.

M. B. Brady, New York, Daguerreotypes.

W. M. Lawrence, New York, Daguerreotypes.

1851 January 8.  The New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  January 8, 1851, No. 6752, P. 3.

Industrial Exhibition—London—1851.  Our Washington Correspondence.  Washington, Jan. 4, 1851.  The following is a list of articles received up to this date, by the Centeral Committee, for exhibition at the Great London Fair.—

6.  M. A. Root, daguerreotypes.

28.  W. & F. Langenheim, photographic slides.

31.  O. B. Evans, daguerreotypes.

35.  Meade & Brothers, daguerreotypes.

51.  D. E. Gavit, daguerreotypes.

63.  M. B. Brady, daguerreotypes.

77.  M. M. Lawrence, daguerreotypes.

1851 January 22.   The New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  January 22, 1851, Whole No. 6066, P. 6.

Gavit’s National Miniature Gallery 247 Broadway, corner Murray street.—This establishment contains the largest collection on of the portraits of distinguished individuals ever brought together, and those daily taken there are specimens of the highest perfection of art.  The public are invited to call.

1851 February 1.  New York Daily Tribune.  (New York, New York.)  February 1, 1851, Vol. XI, No. 3056, P. 5.

Mr. D. E. Gavit, late of Albany, has opened a handsome suite of Daguerreotype rooms at the corner of Broadway and Murray-st. as successor to Langenheim & Co.  His pictures have frequently received premiums, and merit examination.

1851 February 13.  The New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  February 13, 1851, No. 6088 P. 4.

The World’s Fair.  The Works and Inventions of the American Sovereigns, for the Crystal Palace.  Yankee Cabinet of Curiosities, &c., &c., &c.

42.  M. A. Root, Philadelphia, Pa., daguerreotypes.

62.  W. & F. Langenheim, Philadelphia, Pa., photographic magic lantern specimens.

105.  O. B. Evans, Buffalo, N. Y., daguerreotypes.

109.  Meade & Brothers, New York, daguerreotype.

125.  D. E. Gavit, New York, daguerreotypes.

137.  M. B. Brady, New York, daguerreotypes.

151.  M. M. Lawrence, New York, daguerreotypes.

396.  J. W. Whitehurst, Baltimore, daguerreotypes.

1851 February 19.  New York Daily Tribune.  (New York, New York.)  February 19, 1851, Vol. XI, No. 3071, P. 5.

The Daguerreotype Art.—In this age of in the useful arts and in cheap luxuries, none who possess the means of subsistence can make the costliness of family portraits an excuse for being without them.  The art of Daguerreotyping, in this country, has reached a point of great perfection, and the artists of New-York are among the foremost in excellence of workmanship, beauty of finish, and a quick apprehension and application of a new discoveries.  The establishment of Mr. D. E. Gavit, corner of Broadway and Murray-st., to which we alluded a few days since, is one of the most extensive in this country, and combines a number of advantages, which give it a peculiar claim upon public attention.—Probably a larger or better selected Portrait Gallery of distinguished personages could not be found.  His rooms are decked with the speaking likenesses of Presidents, Governors, Congressmen, eminent Divines, Jurists, and other more or less distinguished—the careful gleanings of many years.  Joining to a large experience that spirit of enterprise that never fails to succeed, Mr. Gavit has been enabled, by his discoveries on new chemical compounds and combinations, to impart to his pictures a finish of remarkable beauty, which gives general satisfaction, and insures him frequent premiums.  In Albany, where his principal establishment was, until recently, located, he achieved a name which is a sure guarantee of success among us.  We commend his establishment, No. 247 Broadway, to the attention of the reader.

1851 March 13.   The New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  March 13, 1851, Whole No. 6716, P. 2.

The Daguerreotype In Perfection, at the National Miniature Gallery, 247 Broadway, corner Murray. Over Ball, Tompkins & Black.  Portraits of all sizes, in variety of settings.  Daguerreotypes copied, equal to the original.  Gavit’s, late Anthony Clark & Co.

1851 March 28.   The New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  March 28, 1851, Whole No. 6731, P. 2.

Fine Arts.—Beautiful Daguerreotypes on ivory paper, in oil and water, finished in the most elaborate style.  The public generally are requested to call, and examine specimens of this superior process, at the National Miniature Gallery, 247 Broadway, corner of Murray.  Artists furnished with Talbotypes on reasonable terms.  D. G. Gavit.

1851 April 1.   The New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  April 1, 1851, Whole No. 6735, P. 4

Talbotypes and Daguerreotypes.—Those beautiful pictures are acknowledged to be the “ne plus ultra” of art.  Those who wish to examine specimens (of which this gallery contains the largest collection in the world) are requested to call at the National Miniature Gallery, No. 247 Broadway.  D. E. Gavit.

1851 July 10.  The New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  July 10, 1851, Whole No. 6833, P. 1.

Final Passage Of The Canal Bill, Large Number Of Bills Acted On.  Items from All Sections of the Country.  New York Legislature.  Special Session….Senate.  Albany, July 9, 1851.  Daguerreotype Likenesses of Senators.  A petition was presented by J. E. Gavet, asking the Senate to purchase the daguerreotype likenesses of the Senators.  It was referred to the Committee on Retrenchment.

1851 July 12.  The New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  July 12, 1851, Whole No. 6835, P. 1.

New York Legislature.  Special Session…. Senate.  Albany, July 11, 1851….

Daguerreotype Likenesses.  The Senate refused to purchase the Daguerreotypes of the Senators of the previous Senate.

1852 February 15.  The New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  February 15, 1852, Whole No. 7046, P. 2.

Fire.—Yesterday, evening about half past six o’clock, a fire broke out in the fourth story of the large brick building on the corner of Broadway and Murray street, occupied by D. E. Gavitt as the National Daguerreotype gallery; the occupants of the building are as follows:–The first floor is occupied by Ball, Black, & Co., jewelers, and the basement by W. O. Stout, card and steal engraver.  The second story by M. Lafever, B. T. Smith, architects, and Thomas Jones, keeper of bookkeeping; the third by D. W. C. Boutel, artist, W. W. Niles, and a P. Begley; attorneys; Henry Reiley, Taylor & Van Skelien, manufacturer of artificial flowers; the fourth floor by D. E. Gavitt, daguerreotype gallery, by S. Ellis & H. Noland, sculptors.  The fire originated in the mercury room of Gavitt’s daguerreotype gallery; but from what caused he could not tell.  The flames spread with such rapidity that before the firemen could get fairly at work the rooms were completely burned out, and in consequence of the impossibility of getting the hose to operate with anything like effect, caused by the bursting of several of them, fears were, at one time, entertained that the whole building would fall a prey to the devouring element.  When, however, several powerful streams were ultimately brought to play on the flames, they were soon subdued, but not before the greater part of the fourth story was demolished.  D. E. Gavitt lost every thing, amounting to about $3,000 which was not insured.  This is the second time that he has had the misfortune of being burned out—the first time in Albany, some three or four years ago, and also without being insured…

1852 February 16.  New York Daily Tribune.  (New York, New York.)  February 16, 1852, Vol. XI, No. 3379, P. 4.

Fires.—About 7 o’clock Saturday evening a fire broke out in the large four story brick building No. 247 Broadway, extending back over 150 feet on Murray-st, occupied by the following persons; Basement floor by Wm. C. Stout, card and seal engraver; first and second floors by Ball, Black & Co., jewelry and silverware manufacturers; third floor by W. W. Niles and S. Bagley, lawyers, Mr. Von Skelline, artificial flower maker, Henry Riley, tailor, Thomas Jones, teacher of penmanship, and M. Lafever and B. Smith, architects; fourth floor by D. E. Gavit, daguerreotypist, D. W. C. Boutelle, artist, and Horace Noland, sculptor.  The fire originated in Mr. Gavit’s daguerreotype establishment, and when first discovered could have been easily extinguished with a few pails of water.  Mr. G. was near by when the fire broke out, and discovering that it was in his premises ran quickly to the room, and had nearly succeeded in smothering the flames with his overcoat, when he was compelled to desist, being nearly suffocated by the dense smoke which had already filled the apartment.

The promptness with which the bell ringer gave the alarm, soon brought a large body of firemen upon the ground, who made their immediate action, succeeded in a short time completely subduing the devouring elements, which at first threatened the destruction of considerable property.

The rear portion of the fourth story occupied by Mr. Gavit, Horace Noland, and Boutelle the Artist, was entirely destroyed by fire, together with the property of the occupants, which is not insured.  The property of the occupants of the second and third story was damaged by water to the amount of several thousand dollars.

Mr. Gavit estimates his loss at about $3,000.  This loss falls heavily upon him, as the property destroyed was all he possessed, and he is not insured a dollar.  Some time since he met with a similar misfortune; his establishment in Albany having been destroyed, but there he was insured.  Mr. G. had a great number of pictures, of which about 600 were of distinguished Americans.  These were all destroyed, and as many of the originals are dead, they can never be replaced.  He saved only about a dozen pictures in all, besides two medals which had been awarded to him—one by the State Agricultural Society, and the other by the American Institute.  We trust to see Mr. G. at work again soon, when all his old friends should give him a lift….

1852 February 16.  Richmond Whig.  (Richmond, Virginia.)  February 16, 1852, Vol. 29, No. 14, P. 2.

New York, Feb. 15.—A fire broke out last night on the corner of Broadway and Murray street in a large building occupied by Messrs. Ball, Black & Co., Jewellers.—The upper story only was burnt which was occupied by D. Garritt, daguerreotypist, and by S. Cuss, whose damage was about $3000.  Much injury was done to Messrs. Ball, Black & Co., and the other occupants, by water, there was a large insurance, more than covering the loss.

1852 February 17.  New York Daily Tribune.  (New York, New York.)  February 17, 1852, Vol. XI, No. 3380, P. 5.

Help Proposed.—We understand that the Daguerreotype Artists of this City contemplate raising a fund for the benefit of Mr. Gavit, Whose establishment was totally destroyed by fire on Saturday evening last.  We trust the craft will do something handsome for Mr. G., as the fire swept everything away, leaving him nothing but his naked hands with which to support a large family.  His policy of insurance expired a few days before the fire, and unfortunately he had neglected to renew it.  He is a good artist, and an energetic man, and with a little timely assistance, which shall enable him to recommence business, he will soon be on his feet again.

1852 February 21.  New London Democrat.  (New London, Connecticut.)  February 21, 1852, Vol. VII, No. 50, Whole No. 362, P. 3.

Fire In New York, &c.  New York, Geb. 15—9 P. M.  The building corner of Broadway and Murray street was discovered on fire in the fourte (sic.) story last evening, and that portion occupied as the National Daguerreotype Gallery, was almost consumed.  The first story was occupied by Messrs Ball, Black & Co., who sustained considerable damage to their stock which is valued at $250,000, and is fully insured.

1852 April.  The Photographic Art Journal.  (New York, New York.)  April 1852, Vol. III, No. IV, P. 257.

The photographic art has had to pass through a fiery ordeal since our last, no less than four galleries have been wholly or partially destroyed by the devouring element.

The first was D. E. Gavit, 247 Broadway, which occurred early in March, destroying his whole stock.  The daguerrean art and the whole country suffered an irreparable loss by this occurrence, as Mr. Gavit’s gallery contained the largest, best and most valuable collection of daguerreotypes in the world.  Splendid portraits of some of our most remarkable men, and which can never be replaced, were consumed.  Mr. Gavit’s loss was total, as his policy of insurance expired only a day or two previous.

Mr. Gurney was the next to suffer—but we are happy to say received very little damage—and following close upon his disaster was that of Mr. Whitehurst, whose beautiful gallery in New York was nearly ruined by fire and water on Sunday morning March 28th.

The fourth and last case was that of Mr. Clark of Ithica, N. Y., who while in this city purchasing his spring stock received a telegraphic dispatch on the 29th ult. That his gallery had been burnt out.  The amount of this young but deserving artist’s loss we have not learned.

1852 April 18.  The New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  April 18, 1852, Whole No. 7109, P. 2.

Daguerreotype.—Gavit’s National Miniature Gallery is re-opened at 192 Broadway, corner of John street, where the proprietor hopes to receive the patronage of his friends and the public generally.

1852 September 27.  New York Daily Tribune.  (New York, New York.)  September 27, 1852, Vol. XII, No. 3571, P. 1.

The Campaign Scott and Graham Songster—Second edition, enlarged and improved.  The largest, most beautiful, and best edition of spirited Whig Song extant.  Every section of the country should be supplied.  Committees and Booksellers’ orders, with cash, promptly supplied at $4 per 100 by the publisher, D. E. Gavit, No. 192 Broadway, N. Y.

1852 November 12.  The New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  November 12, 1852, Whole No. 7316, P. 4.

Prize Medal Daguerreotypes.—The first medal ever awarded for Daguerreotypes in this country was given to D. E. Gavit, 192 Broadway, corner of John street, the excellence of whose pictures is universally acknowledged, and whose prices are lower than any other good artist’s in the city.  This utmost satisfaction given in all cases.

1856 December 25.  New York Daily Tribune.  (New York, New York.)  December 25, 1856, Vol. XVI, No. 4894, P. 3.

Republican General Committees For 1857.  Delegates to the Republican Central Committee and a Young Men’s Committee were chosen on Tuesday night by various Ward Associations.  In most of the wards only one ticket was got up.  Where there were more we have given the names said to be elected….Ward XX. Young Men’s Committee…D. E. Gavit.

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[1] Address from Craig’s Daguerreian Registry.