Tag Archives: Geneseo New York

Griffin, Lewis V.

1850-1851       Main Street, over J. D. Crank’s Store, Geneseo, New York.

1851-1853       Main Street, opposite Republican Office, Geneseo, New York.

1853-1857       79 Main Street, Rochester, New York.

1859                Address Unknown, Rochester, New York.

1850 February 14.  Livingston Republican.  (Geneseo, New York.)  February 14, 1850, Vol. XIII, No. 24, Whole No. 648, New Series—Vol. 1, No. 8, P. 3.

Daguerreotypes!  Messrs. Griffin & Whyland would respectfully announce to the citizens of Geneseo and vicinity, that they have fitted up the rooms over store of J. D. Crank, Main Street, where they will be ready at any time to accommodate the public with Miniatures, which are seldom equaled for beauty of tone and brilliant luster, and the “Eyes” we never fail in producing them equally as plain and bright as those of the original.  Having spent much time in the study and practice of the art, and also in obtaining the latest improvements, they feel perfectly confident that their specimens will compare with any hitherto produced.  A good assortment of stock on hand at all times.  Every variety of Cases—Single, Double, Plain Morocco, Turkey hoend, fancy Gilt and embossed.

Frames—Rosewood, Mahogany, Rough and Ready, Single or in Groups.

Lockets—All sizes, single, double, and glass fronts. 

Miniature Pins and Rings.

Warranted instructions given to any who are otherwise qualified for the business, and free access to all books and papers connected with the art.  Apparatus and stock furnished if desired.

Miniatures taken in all kinds of weather.

Ladies and gentlemen are requested to examine and sit for specimens.

Advertisement ran from February 14 to August 15, 1850.

1850 August 22.  Livingston Republican.  (Geneseo, New York.)  August 22, 1850, Vol. XIII, No. 51, Whole No. 675, New Series—Vol. 1, No. 36, P. 3.

Daguerreotypes!  Messrs. Griffin & Whyland would respectfully announce to the citizens of Geneseo and vicinity, that they have fitted up the rooms over store of J. D. Crank, Main Street, where they will be ready at any time to accommodate the public with Miniatures, which are seldom equaled for beauty of tone and brilliant luster, and the “Eyes” we never fail in producing them equally as plain and bright as those of the original.  Having spent much time in the study and practice of the art, and also in obtaining the latest improvements, they feel perfectly confident that their specimens will compare with any hitherto produced.  A good assortment of stock on hand at all times.  Every variety of Cases—Single, Double, Plain Morocco, Turkey hoend, fancy Gilt and embossed.

Frames—Rosewood, Mahogany, Rough and Ready, Single or in Groups.

Lockets—All sizes, single, double, and glass fronts. 

Miniature Pins and Rings.

Warranted instructions given to any who are otherwise qualified for the business, and free access to all books and papers connected with the art.  Apparatus and stock furnished if desired.

Miniatures taken in all kinds of weather.

Ladies and gentlemen are requested to examine and sit for specimens.

Advertisement ran from August 22, 1850 to December 5, 1850.

1851 July 25.  Livingston Republican.  (Geneseo, New York.)  July 25, 1851, Vol. XIV, No. 46, Whole No. 723, New Series—Vol. 2, No. 31, P. 3.

Daguerreotypes Taken in all kinds of weather at Griffin’s Rooms, opposite the Post Office, Main Street, by entire transmitted light, which produces the most beautiful blending of light and shade, ever discovered in any Daguerreotype process.  The room is darkened, so as to exclude all reflected light, thereby enabling any with the weakest eyes to sit from 15 to 45 seconds with perfect ease.  No pains spared in giving the [      ] and most graceful position and no charges, unless satisfactory.  Every quality, size and kind of Frames, cases nd Lockets, Chemicals Apparatus and Stock furnished to Operators as cheap as can be purchased West of New York.  Any one desirous of engaging in this art would do well to call here for their apparatus and instructions, which will be warranted in all cases.  Miniatures taken with the improved magic background, something new and beautiful.  Call and See.  Geneseo, May 9, 1851.

Advertisement ran from July 25, 1851 to April 15, 1852.

1852 April 8.  Livingston Republican.  (Geneseo, New York.)  April 8, 1852, Vol. XV, No. 31, Whole No. 760, New Series—Vol. 3, No. 16, P. 3.

Skylight Daguerreotype Gallery.  Five Rooms arranged expressly for the business.  Griffin has removed to Crank’s New Block, opposite the Republican office, Main street, where he has the advantage of Sky and Side Light, superior to any ever arranged in this country Now look out Quacks.  We are bound to take better Miniatures than can be taken in any “Cart” that travels, and cheaper than ever.  Only think, a nice Daguerreotype put up in a neat Morocco bound case, for the extraordinary low price of only One Dollar!  Instructions given in the art, and Apparatus and Stock furnished, if desired.  A long experience and close observation has enabled us to understand the theory and practical part in every particular, and we are now prepared to produce the Half, or Natural Tints, a shade so much desired and perfected by our best portrait painters.

Explanations of the process given to any capable of understanding, free of charge, when time will admit.

Rooms open at all hours of the day.  Small [   ?  ] of humanity taken in the twinkling of an eye, and no pains spared in giving the easiest and most graceful position in all cases.

Advertisement ran from April8, 1852 to June 16, 1853.

1852 December 23.  Livingston Republican.  (Geneseo, New York.)  December 23, 1852, New Series—Vol. IV, No. 1, Whole No. 797, P. 1.

L. V. Griffin, Daguerreotypist.—Rooms opposite the Republican, Main Street, Geneseo, N. Y. Look inside this paper for Advertisement.

Advertisement ran from December 23, 1852 to October 13, 1853.

1852 December 30.  Livingston Republican.  (Geneseo, New York.)  December 30, 1852, New Series—Vol. IV, No. 2, Whole No. 798, P. 2.

As it is expected that every one will be favored with some present on New Year’s day, the question is often a difficult one to some, what that present shall be.  Now let us make a suggestion.  Death, with his ever-moving and tireless sickle is constantly on his round, removing the loved ones from the place they now occupy, and what can be more appropriate or what would be received with more grateful emotions, than a likeness of a friend or relative?  Griffin is fully prepared to supply all calls, and in doing so, will give you a picture that cannot be excelled by any one.  A likeness to be of any value, should be correct—a faithful reflex of the “human face divine,” and such a one you can have by giving him a call.  His assortment of cases, frames, lockets, &c., is very large, embracing some of the most elegant patterns and styles we have ever seen, from one dollar to almost any price you may desire.  Mr. G. is a thorough artist, and gives his pictures a life-like appearance, and tone of finish, we have never seen equaled.

1853 June 2.  Livingston Republican.  (Geneseo, New York.)  June 2, 1853, New Series—Vol. IV, No. 24, Whole No. 820, P. 3.

Daguerreotypes!  Griffin still remains in town, ready at a moment’s notice to transfer your shadow upon the imperishable plate of silver.  The whole process accelerated and the impression made completely perfect by the aid of that almost indispensable apparatus, the Galvanic [Hartlery] A large size Camera has been lately added with a Condenser and Metallic Reflector.  Those wishing views of Dwellings, Landscapes, or Family Groups, with dense foliage for the back ground can be accommodated at their place of residence, if desired.

By using the above apparatus every object appears in its true position the revered order as is the case with Common Camera is with the above arrangement completely avoided.  We have taken some beautiful proofs which receive the admiration of all—Nature’s own copy of Nature’s work.  A large assortment of every size and quality of Frames, cases, and Lockets, of the best workmanship, on hand at all times.

We would suggest an idea to the public—You that have aged relatives and wish to perpetuate their memory by the aid of this art, should improve the warm pleasant weather of summer.  Do not wait for a more favorable opportunity.  The “old pioneers” are dropping off like the withered leaves of autumn, and you are left at hardly a moment’s notice, without a shadow of their former existence.                                                              

Advertisement ran from June 2 to October 6. 1853.

1853 October 6.  Livingston Republican.  (Geneseo, New York.)  October 6, 1853, New Series—Vol. IV, No. 42, Whole No. 830, P. 3.

Sky-Light Daguerreotype Gallery.  New Arrangements.  S. C. Wright, (Of Syracuse,) Would Respectfully inform the citizens of Geneseo and vicinity, that he has purchased the entire interest and establishment of L. V. Griffin, where he will continue the business, and hopes by strict attention, to merit the liberal patronage hitherto bestowed and will ensure complete satisfaction to ……unreadable.

Advertisement ran from October 6 to November 10, 1853.

Daguerreotyping—Mr. L. V. Griffin, who has been successfully engaged in business as a daguerreotype artist at Genesco, and to whom, as we noticed by the Livingston Republican, premiums were awarded at the recent Fair in that county, has disposed of his business there to a daguerreotypist from Syracuse, and removed to this city, where he goes into business with Mr. E. M. Whitney whose name in this department of art, is his sufficient eulogy.  Messrs. Whitney & Griffins have opened an establishment in the Crystal Palace Block, Main st., just east of the Blossom Hotel, which will be under the immediate supervision of Mr. G. while Mr. W. will continue in charge of his rooms in Gould’s Block.

New Daguerreotype Gallery.  Whitney, Denny & Griffin, Crystal Palace Block, 79 Main Street.  In calling the attention of the citizens of Rochester and vicinity to this new establishment, we would respectfully inform them that this suit of Rooms has been built expressly to our order—and alter an experience of some years in the business, we hazard nothing in styling this a Model Daguerrean Gallery, The Operating Room and Sky Light the largest in the State.

It will be our aim to sustain the reputation already acquired for producing the Best Daguerreotypes, and for which we have received several Premiums.

All are invited to call at the Crystal Palace Gallery.

Advertisement ran from October 24, 1853 to June 3, 1854.

1853 October 25.  Rochester Daily American.  (Rochester, New York.)  October 25, 1853, Vol. 9, No. 253, P. 2.

The New Daguerreotype Gallery of Messrs. Whitney, Denny & Griffin in the Crystal Palace Building, No. 79 Main st., has just been provided with the largest sky-light, which affords remarkable advantages for the daguerrean process.

1854 February 25.  Rochester Daily American.  (Rochester, New York.)  February 25, 1854, Vol. 10, No. 48, P. 2.

Daguerreotype.—We saw yesterday a superb whole size daguerreotype of Sheriff C. B. Woodworth, taken by Mr. Griffin of the Crystal Palace Daguerrian Rooms.  It is one of the strongest and best pictures we have ever seen.  It seems to stand out from the plate as if in relief.  This is a fair sample of the work turned out by Griffin, who is rapidly gaining the name and merit of rare excellence.  His rooms are favorably located for business, of which he is drawing a good share.

1854 May 15.  Rochester Daily American.  (Rochester, New York.)  May 15, 1854, Vol. 10, No. 115, P. 2.

Crystal Palace Notes…

Nor should visitors to the Crystal Palace forget to visit the Daguerrian Rooms of Mr. L. V. Griffin.  They are fitted up in a style unsurpassed in the west.  The reception room is large and commodious.  By passing up an easy flight of stairs you enter into the operating room.  This room has every convenience for perfecting the art.  W.

1854 May 22.  Rochester Daily American.  (Rochester, New York.)  May 22, 1854, Vol. 10, No. 121, P. 2.

Dissolution.—The Co-parntership heretofore existing between the subscribers, under the firm of Whitney & Denny, is this day dissolved by mutual consent.  All persons indebted to said firm will make payment to Edward T. Whitney, who will likewise settle all debts owing by said firm.  E. T. Whitney, C. B. Denny. 

Rochester, May 18th, 1854.  The Daguerreotype business will be carried on hereafter by the subscriber, at the rooms of the late firm of Whitney & Denny.  E. T. Whitney.

The Copartnership heretofore existing between the subscribers under the firm of Whitney, Denny & Griffin, is this day dissolved by mutual consent.  L. N. (sic.) Griffin is hereby authorized to use the name of the firm in settlement, and to whom all accounts must be paid.  E. T. Whitney,  C. B. Denny, L. N. (sic.) Griffin.

Advertisement ran from May 22, 1854 to February 28, 1855.

1854 May 24.  Rochester Daily American.  (Rochester, New York.)  May 24, 1854, Vol. 10, No. 123, P. 2.

Crystal Palace Daguerreotype Gallery, L. V. Griffin, 79 Main st., Crystal Palace Block.  We would invite the attention of all interested in the production of fine Daguerreotypes, to this large and truly beautiful Gallery.  The rooms are very large and were arranged expressly for this business at great expense and nothing has been left undone that would contribute in the least to make every arrangement complete and as perfect as possible.  The largest and most superior Sky-Light ever constructed for this Art, is adjusted at an angle, that will admit all the light required, and the facilities are such that a sitting can be given in a remarkable short space of time at any hour and in any weather.

In fact this indispensable addition to Photographic manipulations has become so justly appreciated, that many operators from different sections are desirous of obtaining a plan of the adjustment by which to obtain what Artists style Half or Natural Tints, which cannot be procured in a perfect manner without the aid of such a Light.

Citizens and strangers are requested to call, and for proof of the above, examine specimens, and also refer to the patrons of the Crystal Palace Gallery.

Advertisement ran from May 24, 1854 to  October 15, 1855.

1854 June 9.  Rochester Daily American.  (Rochester, New York.)  June 9, 1854, Vol. 10, No. 137, P. 2.

Daguerreotypes, of a superior tone, and the finest blending of light and shade, can be had at any time at Griffin’s Gallery, in the Crystal Palace block.

Advertisement was recorded seven times between June 9 to 19, 1854.

1855 March 21.  Rochester Daily American.  (Rochester, New York.)  March 21, 1855, Vol. 11, No. 70, P. 2.

Read Aloud!—If you want a good Daguerreotype, in a fancy case, and cheap at that, call at the Crystal Palace Gallery.  Griffin is always at his rooms.

Remember, entrance 1st east of the Marble Store, 79 Main street.

Advertisement ran from March 21 to 30, 1855.

1855 March 30.  Rochester Daily American.  (Rochester, New York.)  March 30, 1855, Vol. 11, No. 78, P. 2.

Crystal Palace Daguerreotype Gallery, No. 79 Main street, Rochester, N. Y., First entrance East of Wamsley Brothers’ Store.  L. V. Griffin, Operator and Proprietor.  The attention Of All the Readers of this paper is respectfully called to this, the largest and most complete Establishment of the kind in this city, and second to no one in the State.

“This is no Hoax.”

If it seems improbable, call and satisfy yourselves as to the truth of the assertion.  A constant attention to this art or six successive years, has won for us the enviable notoriety of producing the best Daguerreotypes, notwithstanding the “Puffs” of our neighbors in the art, written by themselves, and paid for at the rate of ten cts. per line.

Let the respective merits of each be critizied (sic.).

Pictures of every size, from the largest plate to the smallest finger-ring.

One great advantage over other Galleries, is the immense Sky-Light Pictures.

Children are taken daily in one, two and three seconds, single or in groups.  The state of the weather is no account.  A large light and superior Cameras, will conquer Stereoscopes, Crayon, Landscape, or Scenic illuminated and magic, and the vignette, are among the styles of the present method of taking Daguerreotypes.

All are invited to call and examine specimens and prices.  The latter shall be put down as cheap as the cheapest, in fancy cases or frames, and no work allowed to go out unless it suits in every particular.

Advertisement ran from March 30 to October 15, 1855.

1856 January 3.  Livingston Republican.  (Geneseo, New York.)  January 3, 1856, New Series—Vol. VII, No. 3, Whole No. 955, P. 3.

Crystal Palace Daguerreotype and Photograph Gallery!  No 79 Main Street, Rochester, N. Y. 

L. V. Griffin, Operator & Proprietor.

Life Size Photographs on canvas,

Cabinet            do                    do,

Chroma tints   do          on Paper,

Plain Photographs, all sizes,

Ambrotypes or Daguerreotypes on Glass, Stereoscopes, Crayon, Vignette, Magic, colored and plain Daguerreotypes, all sizes.

The attention of all the readers of this paper especially directed to the largest and most complete establishment in the city.  A life size Photograph Painted with Oil Colors is decidedly the best and most durable picture that can be made.  The Likeness is as perfect as the Daguerreotype, and the Painting is executed by the most skillful Artist in this country.  Old Daguerreotypes of deceased friends through it be a locket picture, can be enlarged to a life-size without the least possibility of a failure.  When you visit Rochester, call and see specimens. 

Advertisement ran from January 3 to December 25, 1856.

1856 August 21.  Livingston Republican.  (Geneseo, New York.)  August 21, 1856, New Series—Vol. VII, No. 36, Whole No. 988, P. 2.

As an artist, Mr. Griffin has no superior, and he has done much to advance and perfect the Daguerrean art.  The paper Ambrotypes are something that will have a great run, and from the specimens we have seen, they are fully equal to any taken on glass, and are in a form to be forwarded by mail without danger of soiling.  Those desiring a Daguerreotype, an Ambrotype either on glass or paper, or Photograph, should give Mr. G. a call at his rooms in the Crystal Palace block, Rochester.

1857 September 3.  Rochester Daily American.  (Rochester, New York.)  September 3, 1857, Vol. XIII, No. 205, P. 3.

Considerable interest was excited this forenoon by the fact that a number of our citizens were taken up singly to the height of several hundred feet by Prof. Steiner in his large balloon “The Pride of the West.”  Among those who took this trip were Mr. L. V. Griffin the Daguerrean Artist…

Grand Combination!  We, the undersigned, Proprietors of the Principal and long established Daguerreotype Galleries In this city, have decided, that, in consequence of the extreme scarcity of Money, and the many difficulties that a large class labor under, that it is No More Than Just, that a Reduction should be made in the Price Of Pictures! 

Therefore, Resolved, That henceforth, and until further notice, we will make Pictures For Twenty-Five, Fifty, and Seventy-Five Cents, For which we have heretofore charged One Dollar.

We Also Propose To Reduce the price of Fancy Cases, Frames, &c., &c., in the same ratio.  (Signed)

R. B. Appleby, Arcade Gallery,

Hovey & Hartman, Gaffney’s Block,

L. V. Griffin, Crystal Palace Block,

J. S. Crocker, Whitney’s Gallery.

Advertisement ran from November 10 to 13, 1857. 

1859 May 13.  The Brockport Republic.  (Brockport, New York.)  May 13, 1859, Vol. III, No. 31, Whole No. 135, P. 2.

New Ambrotype Gallery!  E. M. Sintzenich.  From the old established Gallery of L. V. Griffin, Rochester, (where he has had nearly six years experience in the art of producing Camera Pictures,) has established himself in this village Directly over the Post Office, for the purpose of accommodating the citizens of the place and the surrounding country with First Class Pictures! Of Every Description.

He does not hesitate in saying that he can produce as good work as can be made at any Gallery in the State, and as cheap as the cheapest.

All are invited to call and examine specimens.  All work warranted.  Remember the place, Brockport, May 4, 1859.

Advertisement ran from May 13 to 27, 1859.

S. C. Wright

1853                Main Street, opposite the Republican Office, Geneseo, New York.

S. C. Wright was recorded in two advertisements in the Livingston Republican (Geneseo, New York).  The first advertisement ran on October 6 & 13, 1853.  S. C. Wright, Daguerreotypist—Rooms opposite the Republican Office, Main Street, Geneseo, N. Y.

Look in this paper for Advertisement.

The second advertisement ran from October 6 to November 10, 1853.  Sky-Light Daguerreotype Gallery.  New Arrangements.  S. C. Wright, (Of Syracuse,) Would Respectfully inform the citizens of Geneseo and vicinity, that he has purchased the entire interest and establishment of L. V. Griffin, where he will continue the business, and hopes by strict attention, to merit the liberal patronage hitherto bestowed and will ensure complete satisfaction to ……unreadable.

S. C. Wright is not recorded in other photographic directories.

W. B. Ranger

1857-1859       Main Street, Geneseo, New York.

W. B. Ranger was recorded in four advertisements in the Livingston Republican (Geneseo, New York). The first advertisement ran from October 29, 1857 to March 18, 1858. Pictures!  Pictures!  Take Notice, And Profit Thereby.  Great Photographic Gallery In Geneseo.  Two Large Rooms Combined.  Geneseo not only takes the head of being one of the finest towns in Western New York, But in the Fine Arts Ranger & Geiger’s Photographic Gallery produces the finest, boldest most natural and life-like likenesses.  Their Ambrotypes, Meininotypes, Cameotypes, Sphereotypes, and pictures taken on patent leather are superior to any taken elsewhere.  Our pictures are not only the best, but they are the cheapest.  Here you can get a good picture in a neat case For Fifty Cents And upwards.  We have now on hand the largest and best variety of Stock, both Plain and Fancy Cases, of every style and quality.  Miniatures taken in a clear and cloudy weather, and inserted in Lockets, Pins, Rings, Bracelets, Frames, &c., &c.  Pictures taken any size from that of a pea to the very largest size, and warranted.  Views of Residences take; also Miniatures of the sick or dead, at their residence if desired.  Copying of every description done in the best possible manner, and on short notice.

Instructions given in the Art, and Apparatus furnished on reasonable terms.  Strangers and citizens are requested to call and examine specimens.  Don’t forget the place, West side of Main St., Geneseo.  Rooms open from seven, A. M., until six P. M,.  W. Ranger.   J. Geiger.

The second advertisement ran from May 26 to August 11, 1859.  Ranger’s Photographic And Fine Art Gallery, Now Open.  I would say to the citizens of this town and surrounding country, that I have returned and taken charge of the old Daguerrean Gallery, West side of Main street.

Photographs, Ambrotypes, Cameotypes, Grained Ambrotypes, Melainotypes, Pictures on Patent Leather, Taken in the highest style of the art.

All who want pictures give me a call, and I will give you as good work as can be obtained elsewhere.  Pictures of sick or deceased persons taken at their residences; old Daguerreotypes, Ambrotypes, or Paintings, taken and enlarged.

Citizens and Strangers are invited to call and examine work, whether they wish to purchase or not.  Satisfaction given, and all work warranted.

Through instructions given in the art, and apparatus furnished.  Don’t forget the place, west side Main Street, Geneseo.   W. B. Ranger.  my. 12.

The third advertisement ran from August 25 to December 8, 1859.  Photographs, Photographs.  Ambrotypes, Melainotypes, Crayon Pictures!  Pictures On Gutta Percha!  To send to friends in a letter, without extra postage.

Diaphaneotypes, Old Daguerreotypes, Paintings, &c., Copied.                                                Pictures of Deceased Or Sick Persons, Taken At Their Residences.

In fact, all kinds of Pictures that are known to the Photographic Art, that have been proved, taken in the highest style, and finished in the most durable manner Where?  Why, At Ranger’s Premium Photograph Gallery!  Geneseo, August 18, 1859.

The fourth advertisement ran from October 27 to December 8, 1859.  Attention.  Stereoscopes and Stereo Pictures.  Something that every family should have in their parlors for their own gratification and to please their friends.  I would say to the public that I have on hand the Stereo Pictures, and Stereoscopes, which I shall sell at the lowest possible rates.  Views of all the principal points of interest in the world furnished to order, at city retail prices.  I shall keep constantly on hand a variety of pictures and instruments of different prices.  Call and see them at Ranger’s Photographic Gallery, Main St., Geneseo.  oct. 20.

W. B. Ranger is not recorded in other photographic directories.

Ranger & Geiger

1857-1858       Main Street, Geneseo, New York.

Ranger & Geiger (W. B. Ranger & J. Geiger) were recorded in one advertisement that ran from October 29, 1857 to March 18, 1858 in the Livingston Republican.  (Geneseo, New York).  Pictures!  Pictures!  Take Notice, And Profit Thereby.  Great Photographic Gallery In Geneseo.  Two Large Rooms Combined.  Geneseo not only takes the head of being one of the finest towns in Western New York, But in the Fine Arts Ranger & Geiger’s Photographic Gallery produces the finest, boldest most natural and life-like likenesses.  Their Ambrotypes, Meininotypes, Cameotypes, Sphereotypes, and pictures taken on patent leather are superior to any taken elsewhere.  Our pictures are not only the best, but they are the cheapest.  Here you can get a good picture in a neat case For Fifty Cents And upwards.  We have now on hand the largest and best variety of Stock, both Plain and Fancy Cases, of every style and quality.  Miniatures taken in a clear and cloudy weather, and inserted in Lockets, Pins, Rings, Bracelets, Frames, &c., &c.  Pictures taken any size from that of a pea to the very largest size, and warranted.  Views of Residences take; also Miniatures of the sick or dead, at their residence if desired.  Copying of every description done in the best possible manner, and on short notice.

Instructions given in the Art, and Apparatus furnished on reasonable terms.  Strangers and citizens are requested to call and examine specimens.  Don’t forget the place, West side of Main St., Geneseo.  Rooms open from seven, A. M., until six P. M,.  W. Ranger.  J. Geiger.

W.  B. Ranger and J. Geiger are not listed in other photographic directories.

Thomas H. Johnson

1858                Address Unknown, [Main Street, opposite Republican Office], Geneseo, New                                York.

Thomas H. Johnson was recorded in an advertisement that ran on September 9 & 16, 1858 in the Livingston Republican (Geneseo, New York).  Photographic!  Thomas H. Johnson, Artist, From Brady’s and more recently from the Root Gallery, New York, would respectfully inform the citizens of Geneseo and Livingston County, that he has leased the sky-light Rooms in this village for a short time, as is prepared to furnish Photographic and Ambrotype Views And Portraits, in the highest Style of the Art at moderate prices.

An examination of his work is solicited.  Daguerreotypes Copied and Enlarged, Plain or in Colors.  Views of Residences, Portraits of Stock, &c.  Particular attention is called to his new style of colored portraits, the Diaphaneotype!  Instructions given at prices to suit the times.

Thomas H. Johnson is not recorded in other photographic directories as being active in Geneseo, New York.

Griffin & Whyland

1850                Main Street, over J. D. Crank’s Store, Geneseo, New York.

Griffin (Lewis V.) & Whyland were recorded in an advertisement that ran from February 14 to August 15, 1850 in the Livingston Republican (Geneseo, New York).  Daguerreotypes!  Messrs. Griffin & Whyland would respectfully announce to the citizens of Geneseo and vicinity, that they have fitted up the rooms over store of J. D. Crank, Main Street, where they will be ready at any time to accommodate the public with Miniatures, which are seldom equaled for beauty of tone and brilliant luster, and the “Eyes” we never fail in producing them equally as plain and bright as those of the original.  Having spent much time in the study and practice of the art, and also in obtaining the latest improvements, they feel perfectly confident that their specimens will compare with any hitherto produced.  A good assortment of stock on hand at all times.  Every variety of Cases—Single, Double, Plain Morocco, Turkey hoend, fancy Gilt and embossed.

Frames—Rosewood, Mahogany, Rough and Ready, Single or in Groups.  Lockets—All sizes, single, double, and glass fronts.  Miniature Pins and Rings.  Warranted instructions given to any who are otherwise qualified for the business, and free access to all books and papers connected with the art.  Apparatus and stock furnished if desired.

Miniatures taken in all kinds of weather.  Ladies and gentlemen are requested to examine and sit for specimens.  Geneseo, February 11th, 1850.

Lewis V. Griffin is recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry, but not in the partnership with Whyland, and Whyland is not recorded in other photographic directories.

George C. Gillett

1857                Main Street, over White’s Grocery Store, Geneseo, New York.

George C. Gillett was recorded in an announcement and advertisement.  The announced appeared on May 14, 1857 in the Livingston Republican (Geneseo, New York).  We noticed the other day something entirely new in the photographic art, in the way of Ambrotype pictures on patent enamel leather.  They are first taken on glass and then transferred to leather, making a “photo” of great beauty.  Gillett is prepared to furnish the above or any other kind of a sun picture that may be desired.

The advertisement ran from May 14 to July 16, 1857 in the Livingston Republican (Geneseo, New York).  War In China!  Important Announcement!  Whether the present war between the English and the “Celestials: shall effect the price of teas or not, I intend to keep Right On taking those fine Likenesses! which have already pleased so many.  The only deviation will be to present every improvement which I can obtain.  If any have had fears about the durability of my Ambrotypes, I would say that I can show them pictures which have been exposed on the roof with no glass over them to the hot sun, Rain, Snow, and hard Frosts, and are now as good as new.

I would also call attention to a new process for transferring likenesses from glass to patent leather, which I have obtained at considerable expense.—They possess great brilliancy, and cannot be rubbed off without taking the enamel of the leather with them.—They are just the thing to send in a letter, as they cost no additional postage, and are really very nice.

Copying done Promptly and Well.  Children taken perfectly in from 2 to 3 seconds in a fine day.  Please call at my rooms West side of Main Street, over White’s Grocery.  George C. Gillett.

George C. Gillett is not recorded in other photographic directories.

J. Geiger

1857-1858       Main Street, over the Post Office, Geneseo, New York.

J. Geiger was recorded in one announcement and two advertisements in the partnership of Ranger & Geiger.  The announcement appeared on March 19, 1857 in the Livingston Republican (Geneseo, New York).  The improvements made I the last few years in the Daguerrean art, have more than kept pace with the progressive age and has now in this country attained a perfection and excellence that would seem to lead to the conclusion that the art had now reached its acme of beauty and perfection.  It is but a few years since the principle was given us by the French, but the art to-day bears little comparison to what was brought to us from across the water.  Yankee ingenuity, skill and experience has perfected the art.  On a recent visit to the rooms of Mr. J. Geiger, over the Post Office, we could but note the change effected and the improvements made, and in the hands of a skilful artists like Mr. G. persons can obtain “sun delineations” as perfect and natural as the originals.  Mr. G. has facilities that enables him at all times to produce pictures that need only be seen to be appreciated.  His stock is large, and persons should not loose the opportunity of procuring pictures when such an opportunity presents itself.

The first advertisement ran from March 19 to September 3, 1857 in the Livingston Republican (Geneseo, New York).  Daguerrean & Ambrotype Gallery Geiger is again on hand, just returned from the city, and prepared to offer to his numerous patrons an opportunity to select from the largest and best assortment of Daguerreotype Goods, including every variety of the latest styles of Plain And Fancy Cases, Single & Family Frames, &c. ever brought into this County, and which he will sell at greatly Reduced Prices. from Fifty Cents upwards.  A good picture enclosed in a neat case for Fifty Cents, And warranted to be equal to any taken elsewhere in Western New York, affording all an opportunity of getting correct Likenesses of themselves, their families and relations at much lower prices than formerly.  The wisest statesmen have said “in time of peace prepare for war.”  True affection says, “in health procure a memento that shall last when this frail form shall have passed away.”

Reader, while you mind is upon the subject, come with your family, and secure those family keepsakes which are so highly prized.  Don’t delay until the family circle is broken by the Spoiler.

Have you a friend or companion who would highly prize your Ambrotype?  Call at Geiger’s Rooms where he may be found during all business hours, prepared to do all work pertaining to that art.  He has a superior apparatus, and assures the public that his pictures shall be of the first quality, and from 25 to 50vper cent cheaper than can be obtained elsewhere.

Miniatures taken in clear or cloudy weather, and inserted in Lockets, Pins, Rings and Bracelets, &c.  Views of Residences taken.  Also miniatures taken of the sick or dead, if desired, on reasonable terms.  Copying of every description done on short notice.  Instructions given in the art, and apparatus furnished on reasonable terms.

Thankful for former very liberal patronage, a continuance of the same is respectfully solicited.  Don’t forget the place.  It is over the Post Office, Main-st., Genesco.  J. Geiger, March 2d, 57.

The second advertisement ran from October 29, 1857 to March 18, 1858 in the Livingston Republican (Geneseo, New York).  Pictures!  Pictures!  Take Notice, And Profit Thereby.  Great Photographic Gallery In Geneseo.  Two Large Rooms Combined.  Geneseo not only takes the head of being one of the finest towns in Western New York, But in the Fine Arts Ranger & Geiger’s Photographic Gallery produces the finest, boldest most natural and life-like likenesses.  Their Ambrotypes, Meininotypes, Cameotypes, Sphereotypes, and pictures taken on patent leather are superior to any taken elsewhere.  Our pictures are not only the best, but they are the cheapest.  Here you can get a good picture in a neat case For Fifty Cents And upwards.  We have now on hand the largest and best variety of Stock, both Plain and Fancy Cases, of every style and quality.  Miniatures taken in a clear and cloudy weather, and inserted in Lockets, Pins, Rings, Bracelets, Frames, &c., &c.  Pictures taken any size from that of a pea to the very largest size, and warranted.  Views of Residences take; also Miniatures of the sick or dead, at their residence if desired.  Copying of every description done in the best possible manner, and on short notice.

Instructions given in the Art, and Apparatus furnished on reasonable terms.  Strangers and citizens are requested to call and examine specimens.  Don’t forget the place, West side of Main St., Geneseo.  Rooms open from seven, A. M., until six P. M.  W. Ranger. J. Geiger.

J. Geiger is not recorded in other photographic directories.  Craig’s Daguerreian Registry does list a William E. Ranger in Warsaw, N. Y. as a daguerrean in 1859.  It is possible that they are the same person Geneseo is about 21 miles from Warsaw.