1855-1857 241 Essex Street, Salem, Massachusetts.[1]
1859-1860 49 Tremont Street, Boston, Massachusetts.1
1860 335 Washington Street. Boston, Massachusetts.1
1861-1863 31 Winter Street, Boston, Massachusetts.1
1864-1865 18½ Winter Street, Boston, Massachusetts.1
1866 Address Unknown, Boston, Massachusetts.1
1867-1868 22 Winter Street, Boston, Massachusetts.1
1871-1887 Corner Main Street and Eastern Avenue, St. Johnsbury, Vermont
1878-1879 Walton Block, State Street, Montpelier, Vermont
1852 November 27. The Caledonian. (St. Johnsbury, Vermont.) November 27, 1852, Vol. 16, No. 20, P. 2.
Singing School.—Mr. Clifford of Lebanon, N. H., advertises in our columns that he will open a singing school in this village next week. See his notice.
1852 November 27. The Caledonian. (St. Johnsbury, Vermont.) November 27, 1852, Vol. 16, No. 20, P. 3.
Singing School. The subscriber will open a Singing School in this place on Tuesday evening November 30th, at which time he will be pleased to see all who are interested in the art of singing. Place, to be hereafter noticed by Post Bill. D. A. Clifford. Nov. 22, 1852.
1855 April 30. Salem Register. (Salem, Massachusetts.) April 30, 1855, Vol. LVI, No. 35, P. 3.
Ambrotype and Mezzograph Pictures! D. A. Clifford would respectfully inform the people of Salem and vicinity, that he has taken the Daguerreotype Rooms formerly occupied by Mr. D. W. Bowdoin, No. 241 Essex st., and is prepared to take the above pictures.
The following explanation will convince all of the superiority of the Pictures:—Explanation.
The term Ambrotypes, by which the pictures are designated is derived from the Greek word ambrotos, signifying durability, over lasting, &c. The picture is taken upon plate glass, over which is placed a corresponding glass, the two being united by an indestructible gum enabling the picture to retain its brilliancy for ages. It will not corrode at sea, or change in any climate; is beautiful in tone, bold and clear in its effect, and may be seen in any light.
Mezzograph is an improvement on the Crystalotype process, taking the picture from real life, instead of copying from a Daguerreotype, and in less time, greatly improving the tone, and all the finer details of the picture.
The Ambrotype is patented in the United States, Great Britain and France by Mr. James A. Cutting, of Boston.
The public are invited to call and examine specimens, at my Gallery, 241 Essex street, Salem.
N. B.—The Ambrotype process is particularly adapted to taking children, as the sitting is less than one quarter the time in the usual way. Particular attention given to copying Pictures.
Advertisement ran from April 30 to October 25, 1855
1855 July 12. Salem Register. (Salem, Massachusetts.) July 12, 1855, Vol. LVI, No. 56, P. 2.
Ambrotypes. We would call the attention of those who wish to procure a good likeness and never changing picture, to the Ambrotype made by Mr. D. A. Clifford, at No. 241 Essex street, (formerly Mr. D. B. Bowdoin’s rooms.) These pictures have become exceedingly popular, from the fact that they are the only pictures that will not fade or change in any climate or at sea, being taken upon plate glass, over which is placed a corresponding glass, (experiments having proved that pictures put up on a single glass are worthless,) the two surfaces being united by an indestructible gum, virtually making the picture in one solid plate of glass. Besides, the picture is not reversed, and can be seen in any light.
1855 August 20. Salem Register. (Salem, Massachusetts.) August 20, 1855, Vol. LVI, No. 67, P. 3.
Caution. Ambrotype Pictures. The immense success and popularity of the Ambrotype Pictures has induced those who have not been able to obtain the right to work said process to offer a Worthless Imitation of these Pictures.
The fact that Ambrotypes are made upon glass leads many to suppose that all pictures on glass are Ambrotypes, but this is not so. The Ambrotypes are put with two glasses, the picture being between, and the surfaces cemented together with an indestructible gum, thereby securing the picture from injury or change as though it were in solid glass.
I would also inform the public that the process for making Ambrotype Pictures is patented, and I have the exclusive right for Essex county; therefore no other artist has a right to make them, without a deed of right from me.
D. A. Clifford, Artist, In Ambrotype, Mezzograph & Daguerreotype Pictures, 241 Essex street, Salem.
Advertisement ran from August 20 to October 29, 1855.
1855 November 1. Salem Register. (Salem, Massachusetts.) November 1, 1855, Vol. LVI, No. 88, P. 3.
Ambrotype Pictures, The Greatest Discovery In The Photographic Art. Patented In The United States, Great Britain and France.
D. A. Clifford would thank the people of Salem and vicinity for their very liberal patronage since his introduction of the above named Photographs to their notice, and would inform them that he is making them with so much success, that they have entirely superseded the Daguerreotype, to those wishing to preserve a lasting likeness of their family and friends.
Some of its peculiar advantages over other pictures are, that it never changes in time or climate—making it the most desirable to carry to sea—is not reversed in position—can be seen in any light as well as a painting or engraving, (and possessing a lite-like expression not attained in either) more bold, clear. And beautiful than anything before produced by the Photographic Art—all of which are gained by the picture bing made on fine white plate glass, and permanently secured between two plates of glass, being in effect as though in solid glass. Put up in all the desirable system.
I have made recent additions of new instruments, of the best makers in the world, and my establishment is now furnished with apparatus equal to the best in the state. My rooms are easy of access, (up only one flight of stairs) and my patrons are assured that no pains will be spared to produce as good Likenesses and Elegant Pictures as any other establishment in the country.
Caution.—the public are cautioned in purchasing pictures taken on glass, as Ambrotypes, which do not bear the patent stamp. Pictures made on a single glass, and covered with black paint, are not ambrotypes.
I shall receive in a few days, some Fine Gold Lockets, for Ambrotypes, made expressly to my order, and which cannot be found at any other establishment in the country.
Daguerreotypes, Portraits, and all other Pictures copied in Ambrotype, at short notice. **Daguerreotypes Taken for those who wish them. Adults taken equally as well in cloudy as in fair weather. Rooms 241 Essex Street, near Washington street.
Advertisement ran from November 1 to December 31, 1855.
1856 March 20. Salem Register. (Salem, Massachusetts.) March 20, 1856, Vol. LVII, No. 23, P. 3.
Superior Photographs! D. A. Clifford Would invite the attention of his friends and the public, to the Photographs, on Paper or Canvas, (variously called Crystalotypes, etc.,) made by him.
Having employed, permanently, the services of eminent artists to color them, I trust the pictures made at my establishment will not be found inferior to those made by the best artists.
Pictures of all sizes and styles.
Good pictures made from a daguerreotype, or other good pictures.
Views taken, when desired.
Patent Ambrotype. This style of Photograph has become so well known, that it requires no special attention; and we would only say, that we spare no pains or expense in producing it in its greatest perfection.
N. B. We would say, for the information of those purchasing Ambrotypes, that all pictures taken on glass are not genuine Ambrotypes. The difference can be easily distinguished, by the Patent Stamp which is required by law—and none others are genuine.
Ambrotypes, Photographs, And Daguerreotypes, at the Lowest Prices.—Don’t forget the number—Rooms No. 241 Essex Street, next to Kinsman’s new Building.
1856 June 30. Salem Register. (Salem, Massachusetts.) June 30, 1856, Vol. LVII, No. 52, P. 3.
Patent Ambrotypes. The often repeated efforts of Mr. Snell to inform the public that the Patent Ambrotype is a great humbug, and that they are “imposed upon” by exorbitant prices, etc, etc (with a large amount of boasting of his own skill and facilities, there being no other place in Salem where “finished” pictures can be obtained), induce me to state to those that may be led to suppose that such statements are true, that the average prices charged for the Patent Ambrotype are no highrer than charged by Mr. S. for Daguerreotypes or spurious Ambrotypes.
Neither are there any improvements in the method of securing these pictures. As to the value of the Patent Ambrotype over the single glass picture, or Daguerreotype, it is very plain to be understood —as common sense teaches any person that a picture with a glass on either side, and the two cemented together, is more surely secured from injury than any other way in which it can be done. Besides, two glasses are stronger than one. (The principle for making the Patent Ambrotype is patented in England and France, as well as in the United States.)
Also, I would inform those getting Pictures, that those made at my establishment are what they are represented to be, and put up in the most thorough and careful manner, and am confident that the Patent Ambrotype will continue as it now is, the most popular and desirable of all other Pictures. In part proof of which statement, reference need only be made to the spurious imitation made by artist who have not been able to secure the patent right to make the genuine.
I would thank the people of Salem and vicinity for their very liberal patronage the past year, and no pains or expense shall be spared to merit a continuance of the same.
Rooms free to visitors—No. 241 Essex Street, next door to Kinsman’s New Building—where may be found at all times a large assortment of frames, Cases, Gold Lockets and Pins for Ambrotypes and daguerreotypes. D. A. Clifford.
Advertisement ran from June 30 to
1857 January 1. Salem Register. (Salem, Massachusetts.) January 1, 1857, Vol. LVIII, No. 1, P. 2.
Painted Photographic Portraits. We have recently had an opportunity to examine some very fine photographs, taken by Mr. Dan A. Clifford, painted in oil colors by Miss Mary Derby, a well known artist of this city. This style of portraits is likely to be very popular. The daguerreotypist secures an accurate likeness, and the painter gives the natural colors of person and dress, while the style is the same as that of portrait painting, and the picture is of course as durable, with the advantage of costing less. The painted photograph does not require to be protected by glass, any more than canvas does, and, if desired, it can be done on cloth. Miss. Derby has had considerable experience in this department, having painted a number of photographs for Boston as well as Salem daguerreotypist. For children’s portraits, this style of picture is especially desirable, as those who have seen specimens of Miss Derby’s skill will promptly acknowledge.
1865 December 16. Massachusetts Ploughman. (Boston, Massachusetts.) December 16, 1865, Vol. XXV, No. 11, Whole No. 1261, P. 3.
Clifford & Shapleigh, Photographist, No. 18½ Winter St., opposite Music Hall, Boston. D. A. Clifford. T. W. Shapleigh.
We make it a special branch of our business to copy Daguerreotypes or other Pictures, of any size or style, retouching them in India Ink or Colors. oct14.
Advertisement was recorded on December 16, 1865 and January 6, 1866.
1866 January 2. Boston Daily Journal. (Boston, Massachusetts.) January 2, 1866, Vol. XXXIII, No. 10149, P. 3.
The Copartnership heretofore existing under the firm name of Clifford & Shapleigh, Photographist has been dissolved by consent of parties Thomas W. Shapleigh settles the business of the firm at the rooms, No. 18½ Winter street. Dan A. Clifford. Thomas W. Shapleigh. Boston, January 1, 1866.
1866 January 13. Massachusetts Ploughman. (Boston, Massachusetts.) January 13, 1866, Vol. XXV, No. 15, Whole No. 1265, P. 2.
Photographs.—The establishment of Messrs. Clifford & Shapleigh is located at No. 18½ Winter Street. We took occasion to call at their rroms a few days since, and were pleased to see the degree of neatness which pervades their establishment. They have the reputation of giving satisfaction to all their patrons.
1866 March 2. Boston Traveler. (Boston, Massachusetts.) March 2, 1866, Vol. XXI, No. 282, P. 4.
Arrivals At Boston Hotels March 2, 1866…
Parker House…D. A. Clifford…
1871 May 19. St. Johnsbury Caledonian. (St. Johnsbury, Vermont.) May 19, 1871, Vol. 34, No. 1764, P. 3.
—Mr. Clifford has finished and furnished his photograph rooms, in Caledonian Block, in a through and neat manner and is now prepared to do work. Mr. C. enjoys the reputation of being a first class artist, and we have no doubt he will receive a liberal patronage from the citizens of St. Johnsbury.
1871 June 9. St. Johnsbury Caledonian. (St. Johnsbury, Vermont.) June 9, 1871, Vol. 34, No. 1767, P. 3.
Mr. D. A. Clifford, would announce to the people of St. Johnsbury and surrounding towns that his New Photograph Rooms are completed, and he is now prepared to execute all the various kinds of Pictures in the highest style of the Photographic Art; among which are the beautiful and much admired Porcelain, Carte de Visite, Cabinet, and all the various sizes, to life size, plain or retouched in Indian Ink, Crayon, or painted in Oil or Water colors.
Special care taken in copying small pictures of whatever kind to any size. Also views of Buildings, Machinery, Artist’s Drawing sculpture and Works of Art.
Publishes Lake Memphremagog and other Views.
A large assortment of fine Black Walnut and Gilt Frames, Cord, &c. Frames made to order from the Best Finished Mouldings:
This establishment has been fitted up at much expense, has a perfect light, instruments of the very best kinds made, and the appointments are not excelled, if equalled, in the state.
After fifteen years experience in the city of Boston D. A. C. feels confident he will be able to please those who desire a fine class of work at reasonable prices. Patronage respectfully solicited.
1871 August 4. St. Johnsbury Caledonian. (St. Johnsbury, Vermont.) August 4, 1871, Vol. 34, No. 1775, P. 3.
Read the following notice from the Boston Transcript: The Perfection of Photography seems to be reached in the picture produced by Mr. D, A. Clifford, 22 Winter Street, In the great majority of photographs of human subjects, the most casual observer cannot fail to perceive that the most prominent lineaments of face or form are ludicrously exaggerated, so that hands are made to appear quite bloated, noses decidedly swelled, ears enlarged, shoulders shrugged, &c. All these monstrosities, (not to mention others,) are voided by Mr. Clifford, whose artistic excellence is specially noticeable in the admirable drawing of his pictures, wherein the relative proportions of limbs and features are preserved, and all the effects of a painting secured. He is equally successful with landscapes, as his charming views of the scenery around Lake Winnipiseogee, (sic.) &c. abundantly attest. Mr. C. has all the improved facilities known to his profession and executes at short notice fine colored photographs of all styles and sizes, porcelain pictures, stereoscopic pictures from life, &c. His rooms are well worth a visit.
1871 September 15. St. Johnsbury Caledonian. (St. Johnsbury, Vermont.) September 15, 1871, Vol. 35, No. 1781, P. 3.
–Mr. D. A. Clifford, artist over the Caledonian office, has procured a quantity of views fror the stereoscope, taken on Mt. Washington last winter. Call and see them.
1871 December 15. St. Johnsbury Caledonian. (St. Johnsbury, Vermont.) December 15, 1871, Vol. 35, No. 1794, P. 2.
Clifford’s Gallery Is the place to have Pictures made of whatever kind. Clifford’s Photographs are not excelled. Clifford’s Porcelain Pictures are admired and praised by all who behold them. Clifford’s Life Size Portraits are always a success, whether Copied From Small Pictures, or sittings from life. Bring your small pictures to be Copied To Any Size or Style.
Come yourselves and bring your children. Gilt and Black Walnut Frames on hand, and made to order. Also Stereoscopes And Views.
Satisfaction Guaranteed, and Prices Low. Caledonian Block, (Corner Main St., and Eastern Avenue,) St. Johnsbury, Vt.
1872 January 12. St. Johnsbury Caledonian. (St. Johnsbury, Vermont.) January 12, 1872, Vol. 35, No. 1798, P. 1.
Photographers.
F. B. Gage, Brown’s Block, Main Street.
G. H. Aldrich, Burnham’s Building, Main Street.
D. A. Clifford, Caledonian Block, Main Street.
1886 December 20. St. Johnsbury Caledonian. (St. Johnsbury, Vermont.) December 20, 1887, Vol. 50, No. 2579, P. 2.
D. A. Clifford, Photographic Artist, Caledonian Bl’k, Main St. St. Johnsbury.
1887 June 9. St. Johnsbury Caledonian. (St. Johnsbury, Vermont.) June 9, 1887, Vol. 50, No. 2602, P. 1.
Recent Deaths. Clifford.—The sudden death of D. A. Clifford removes a man of mark in his profession, a citizen whose artistic productions have widely extended the reputation of St. Johnsbury. He was a man of native gifts, Before his 8th year he could read music accurately, and at 17 he began teaching singing with such success that after a time Dr. Lowell Mason sent him, and for some years retained him as conductor of musical conventions, and agent for his publications. But Mr. Clifford’s life work was in artistic photography, for which he had enthusiasm amounting to a passion. He began with the introduction of the daguerreotype, about 45 years ago, and made himself master of every new process, to the time of his death. He spared neither pains nor expense to reach idea perfection in his art, and was intolerant of anything inferior. In this respect he believed in himself, and in his work, and he lived to gain a national reputation among artists. Among 167 exhibitors, English and American, who entered their pictures at the exposition given by Lambert, inventor of the carbon process, at New York, in 1878, the first prize for large carbon work was awarded to Mr. Clifford, and two of his pictures were kept by Mr. Lambert to be exhibited in England as specimens of American photography. At the time of his death, and for several years previous. Mr. Clifford was Vice President of the American Photographers Association, (for his enthusiasm at the meetings, he was familiarly known among the members as the “Old War Horse”). His landscape pictures have been admired everywhere and have added much to the popular fame of Vermont scenery. Not infrequently, persons appreciating nice work, have come from cities to be photographed by our St. Johnsbury artist.
Mr. Clifford was a man of strong, outspoken opinions, his speech was often seasoned with severity, his equanimity was disturbed by ill-health and repeated disappointments, but those who knew him intimately learned to appreciate his wide intelligence and sincerity of soul. He felt his infirmities deeply, and valued above all things the mercies of his Redeemer. Re died of heart-disease aged 61 years.
[1] A Directory Of Massachusetts Photographers 1839-1900.
Pioneer American Photographers, 1839 - 1860 