Tag Archives: George Adams

Chapin, Moses Sanford

Daguerreotypes, Photographs, , , , , , , , , ,

1849                6 Exchange, Chicopee, Massachusetts. [1]

1849                9 Brinley Hall, No.9, Worcester, Massachusetts.

1850                9 & 10 Brinley Hall, Worcester, Massachusetts.1

1851                9 Brinley Hall, No.9., Worcester, Massachusetts.1

1852-1855       Waldo Block, Worcester, Massachusetts.1

1856                227 Main, Clark’s Block, Worcester, Massachusetts.1

1857                Main, Clark’s Block, Worcester, Massachusetts.1

1859                Clark’s Block, Worcester, Massachusetts.1

1860-1861       American House Block, Worcester, Massachusetts.1

1862                197 Main, Worcester, Massachusetts.1

1862                Union Art Gallery, New Bern, North Carolina[2]

1863-1866       Address Unknown, Worcester, Massachusetts.1

1876                86 Front, Worcester, Massachusetts.1

1877                Address Unknown, Worcester, Massachusetts.1

1878                204 Front, Worcester, Massachusetts.1

1879                Address Unknown, Worcester, Massachusetts.1

1849 October 4.  Worcester Daily Spy.  (Worcester, Massachusetts.)  October 4, 1849, Vol. 5, No. 96, P. 2.

Premium Daguerreotype Establishment, No. 9 Brinley Hall, No. 9

The proprietor of this Establishment is prepared, as usual, to furnish his friends and the public with the most perfect Daguerreotypes that can be produced.  Of the character of the pictures executed at this long established Gallery, it is enough to repeat that they have secured the very highest tokens of award from the late Mechanics’ Fair in this City, and from other equally competent sources.  Probably no Establishment in the country enjoys a more enviable reputation for its Perfect and Life-Like Types, as well as for the beauty and expression of their minutest parts.  Having secured the services of Mr. Moses S. Chapin, as an Artist, to take charge of my operating department, allow me to invite the attention of your readers to the beautiful Daguerreotypes executed at Dr. Van Alstin’s Establishment, No. 9 Brinley Hall.

Those who visit our City for the purpose of procuring Daguerreotypes, cannot be more satisfactorily accommodated than at No. 9 Brinley Hall.

Miniatures put into Silk for $1—and into Velvet Cases for $1,50.  N.B. Stock constantly on hand and for sale at reasonable prices.                  

Advertisement ran from October 4 to December 6, 1849.

1849 December 7.  Worcester Daily Spy.  (Worcester, Massachusetts.)  December 7, 1849, Vol. 5, No. 149, P. 2.

Premium Daguerreotype Establishment, Types taken with Voightlander’s Quick Camera.

No. 9 Brinley Hall, No. 9

The proprietor of this Establishment has fitted up entirely anew his spacious and commodious Rooms, and furnished them with every convenience and comfort that can be obtained in the most fashionable rooms in the city.  He has procured one of Voightlander’s Large and Quick Cameras—as large as any in this city—for the purpose of taking large types, groups of persons, and children, in a style of elegance and perfection that cannot be obtained by the use of smaller and less perfect instruments.  He has also procured a large lot of Gold Lockets, double and single, of all sizes and descriptions, which he offers for sale at lower prices than they can be bought at any other place in the city.  He is prepared, as heretofore, to furnish his friends and the public with the most perfect Daguerreotype that can be produced.  Of the character of the pictures executed at this long established Gallery, it is enough to state that they have secured the very highest tokens of favor from the late Mechanics Fair in this city, and from other equally competent sources.  Probably no Establishment in the country enjoys a higher reputation for its perfect and skillfully executed types, which exhibit the form and minutest parts of the original, fully and accurately delineated.

The public here and those visiting this city are invited to call and examine for themselves the beautifully and skillfully executed types at Dr. Van Alstin’s Establishment, at No. 9 Brinley Hall, under the charge of Mr. Moses S. Chapin.

Miniatures put into Silk for $1—and into Velvet Cases for $1,50.  N.B. Stock constantly on hand and for sale at reasonable prices.                              

Advertisement ran from December 7 to December 31, 1849.

1851 May 13.  Worcester Daily Spy.  (Worcester, Massachusetts.)  May 13, 1851, Vol. VI, No. 292, p. 2.

To The Public.  This is to certify that the undersigned, Daguerreotypist of this city have visited the Rev. Mr. Hill, of New York, the discoverer of the process of taking portraits and landscapes, in natural colors, and that Mr. Hill presented to them the communication which appeared in the Daily Spy last Saturday, May 10th, with a request to hand it to the Editors of the aforesaid paper, for publication; and he furthermore stated that if Mr. Van Alstin persisted in his assertions, he should send one more communication to the Spy, which would be definite and effectual.

Signed Moses S. Chapin. & C. R. B. Claflin

Advertisement ran from May 13 to June 3, 1851.

1851 June 20.  Worcester Daily Spy.  (Worcester, Massachusetts.)  June 20, 1851, Vol. VII, No. 17, P. 2.

Notice.—In reference to a certain article that appeared in the Spy, dated June__, I would say, in reply, being requested so to do by that Daguerrian Artist to “take notice” who it was that took the medal in 1848.  It was Walker & Adams, not Adams alone, as be stated.  Who was it that took the medal alone, in 1848?  A. W. Van Alstin.

Adams; perhaps the public will say.  Why not A. W. Van Alstin?  Because he was in California.

Who was it that took so many poor pictures in my room while I was there?

Moses S. Chapin.

Where is George Adams operating at the present time?

Providence, R. I., not in Worcester.

Who is in the rooms formerly occupied by Adams?

Moses S. Chapin.

I hope that the remainder of the Artist’ will soon appear, and place him in his proper position, which is at the bench, with a saw and jack-plane.  A. W. Van Alstin.

Advertisement ran from June 20 to June 23 1851

1851 October 3.  Worcester Daily Spy.  (Worcester, Massachusetts.)  October 3, 1851, Vol. VII, No. 108, P. 2.

It will be seen that Adams has removed his Daguerreotype establishment to rooms opposite the American Temperance House, where he will accommodate those desirous of his services.  Mr. Chapin continues at the old stand.

1851 September 29.  Worcester Daily Spy.  (Worcester, Massachusetts.)  September 29, 1851,  Vol. VII, No. 104, P. 2.

Particular Notice.—Geo. Adams would respectfully announce to his friends and the public, that the limitation of his engagement with Mr. Chapin, of Waldo Block, having expired, he has taken a suit of rooms in Brinley Row, over the Citizens Bank, and directly opposite the American House, where all those who are capable of appreciating fine Daguerreotypes are invited to call.  Mr. A.’s Rooms are very easy of access, spacious, and fitted up with every convenience to produce good miniatures.  The room for his Sky-light is of a size suitable for making a group of 40 persons on one plate.

Advertisement ran from September 29 to October 7, 1851

1852 January 9.  Worcester Daily Spy.  (Worcester, Massachusetts.)  January 9, 1852, Vol. VII, No. 191, P. 2

To the Public—The well known Daguerrean Rooms, Waldo Block, formally owned and occupied by Geo. Adams, and More recently by Adams & Chapin, have not been removed, but still are the center of attraction for all who appreciate good Daguerreotypes, as the facilities for taking daguerreotypes are such as cannot be surpassed in this city, if in the world.  The limitation between Messrs Adams & Chapin and Adams & Co. Having ceased Sept. 18, 1851, Mr. Chapin would say to the public, that those splendidly finished Daguerrean Rooms, Waldo Block, are still open for exhibition, or all who may favor him with a call Mr. Chapin would say to all who would like good Daguerreotypes of themselves or friends, they will do well to call on Mr. C., Waldo Block, where all may be sure of obtaining perfect daguerreotypes for the extreme low price of 50 cents.  Perfect satisfaction given or no charge.  Particular attention paid to taking Children.—Hours for taking children from 9 A. M. to 3 P. M.  Call and examine for yourselves.           

Advertisement ran from January 9 to February 11, 1852.

1853 January 3.  Worcester Daily Spy.  (Worcester, Massachusetts.)  January 3, 1853, Vol. VIII, No. 105, P. 3.

Christmas and New Year’s Presents, At Reduced Prices!

A large assortment of all the latest style Daguerreotype Cases, both fancy and plain Also a large variety of Gold Lockets, suitable for presents, to be had at Chapin’s Daguerreotype Rooms, Waldo Block, where you will be supplied with the richest, that the market affords.

Mr. C. would most cordially welcome all who may favor him with a call.  Dec 24.

Advertisement ran from January 3 to January 31, 1853.

1853 September 27.  Worcester Daily Spy.  (Worcester, Massachusetts.)  September 27, 1853, Vol. VIII, No. 331, P. 2.

M. S. Chapin having returned to Waldo Block Daguerreian Rooms, will attend personally to those who may favor him with a call.

All those wishing for a perfect gem of the art, will of course, avail themselves of the first opportunity of calling on Mr. C. and secure one or more of those mamentoes, which in the hour of affliction no price can purchase.

Mr. Chapin is taking splendid Daguerreotypes and enclosing them in a very beautiful case, inlaid with pearl for $1,00.  Also, in very fine cases for 50 cts.

Please call and examine specimens before purchasing at any other rooms, and satisfy yourselves that you can buy cheaper and better Daguerreotypes at Chapins, than any other Rooms in this City.

This is no humbug.  Will you call and favor me with a sitting.                                    

Advertisement ran from September 27 to October 26, 1853.

1853 December 24.  Worcester Daily Spy.  (Worcester, Massachusetts.)  December 24, 1853, Vol. VIII, No. 404, P. 2.

Christmas and New Year’s Gifts.  Mr. Chapin, having collected an endless variety of all the very latest and richest patterns of Daguerreotype Cases, selected expressly for Christmas and New Year’s presents, would most cordially welcome all who wish to procure a gem.  Call on Mr. C., Waldo Block, and make a selection from the largest stock of Daguerreotype Cases ever offered to the public.

All pictures taken at his rooms are warranted to give satisfaction.  Mr. Chapin is now the only Daguerreotyper in this city to whom was awarded a silver medal, for the best Daguerreotypes, at the Mechanics’ Exhibition, 1851.

Ladies and Gentlemen make a wise selection, and go to Chapin’s where you can get a rich gift for a little money, and where you will be treated with respect and attention.  M. S. Chapin, Artist.

Advertisement ran from December 24, 1853 to January 14, 1854.

1855 October 23.  Worcester Daily Spy.  (Worcester, Massachusetts.)  October 23, 1855, Vol. X, No. 252, P. 2.

257…New Daguerreotype Rooms…257.  M. S. Chapin having now removed from Waldo Block, and taken rooms in Wm. C. Clark’s new and splendid block, corner of Main and Mechanic streets, and directly over Martin Stowe’s Dry Goods store, would call the attention of his numerous friends and customers, and all in want of a first class Daguerreotype, (not second to any made in this city,) will be doubly paid by calling on Mr. C. and obtaining one of the same, thus securing one of his superior toned types, which are so much admired by all lovers of this truly beautiful art.  Having speared no pains in arranging a very large North sky-light, which is acknowledged by all artist to be much the best, and always sought for whenever to be had, he feels confident that his long experience and practical knowledge of the business, will be sufficient to warrant him a large share of public patronage.  Mr. Chapin’s operating room is very large and commodious, enabling him to take groups of any number desired.

Mr. C. will take Daguerreotypes at as reasonable prices as any room in Worcester, including case.  Copying done in the very best manner.

Daguerreotyping of the sick, and deceased, taken in the most satisfactory manner.  Also—Great pains taken with children.  Each person is allowed the privilege to sit till they are satisfied with their Daguerreotypes, and no pay in advance.  Remember—Rooms in Clark’s Block.

Advertisement ran from October 23 to November 8, 1855

1856 January 17.  Worcester Daily Spy.  (Worcester, Massachusetts.)  January 17, 1856, Vol. XI, No. 14, P. 2.

Gallery of Female Beauty.—It will be seen by reference to an advertisement in our columns, that Barnum’s plan for a “Gallery of American Female Beauty” is about to be into affect, and that portraits of the most beautiful women in various parts of the country, are to be taken, First by daguerreotype, and then to be painted in oil.  A large amount is to be awarded in premiums.  Three artists are appointed to take daguerreotypes for the purpose in this city, without any expense to the sitter.

1856 January 17.  Worcester Daily Spy.  (Worcester, Massachusetts.)  January 17, 1856, Vol. XI, No. 14, P. 3.

Gallery of Female Beauty.  Prizes amounting to [$ 0000] for the likeness of the Handsomest Women in America.  Daguerreotypes of Beautiful Females taken, with out expense to the sitters, by the first artist in the country!  The celebrated enterprise of Mr. P. T. Barnum, the “Gallery of American Female beauty.”  Is now being actively carried out by the proprietors of Barnum’s American Museum in New York, Messrs. Greenwood & Butler, as originally designed by Mr. B.

The premium for the likeness of the handsomest lady is $1,000; for the next most handsomest $300; the next, $200; the next $150; the next $100; and the next ninety, $25 each.  The entire one hundred are to be painted in oil portraits, afterwards, by distinguished artists, and the ten handsomest of all will be engraved for the World’s Book of Beauty in Paris.  The following artists will take the daguerreotypes in this city free of expense to the sitter:

C. R. B. Claflin, 188 Main Street; Lewis Babbitt, M. S. Chapin, Clark’s Block.

Advertisement ran from January 17 to January 22, 1856

1935 April.  The Worcester Historical Society Publications (Worcester, Massachusetts) New Series Vol. I, No. 8, p. 438.

The Daguerreotype Art And.

…Moses Sanford Chapin was a native of Milford, Mass., and before entering the daguerreotype business had learned the cabinet trade.  He conducted a successful gallery until shortly after the close of the Civil War, when he retired to take up his earlier calling.

During the War he went to Newbern, N. C., and for a time did photographic work with the Northern Armies.

The society is fortunate in having a considerable collection of daguerreotypes made by Mr. Chapin.  These are very interesting as illustrating the appearance of the patrons of a daguerreotype gallery three quarters of a century ago.

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

[2] Photographers In North Carolina The First Century, 1842-1941.

James Cady

Ambrotypes, Daguerreotypes, Photographs, , , , , , ,

1854-1855       233 Broadway, New York, New York.

1856                139 Nain Street, Wheeling, Virginia.

1858-1864       343 Canal Street, New York, New York.

James Cady was mentioned in two advertisements and fourteen New York City Directories.  In the 1853/54 & 1854/55 New York City Directory he was not listed in the residence section.

The first advertisement that he was mentioned in appeared on September 28, 1854 in The New York Herald (New York, New York).  Mr. James Cady. our Principal Daguerreotype artist, has returned from his summer trip, and will be found at his old post in our establishment.  The celebrity of pictures taken by this celebrated artist need no eloquence from us.  Pictures taken daily.  Meade Brothers, artists and importers, 233 Broadway, four doors above the Astor House.

In the 1855/1856 New York City Directory, residence section he was listed as a daguerrian, 233 Broadway, H-Howard House. 

1856/57 & 1857/58  New York City Directory he was not listed.

The second advertisement that he was mentioned in ran from April 21 to August 6, 1856 in the Wheeling Daily Intelligencer (Wheeling, Virginia).  One Hundred Dollars, Will be given to any artist in Virginia who will exhibit twelve pictures, vix: six Ambrotypes and six Daguerreotypes of equal merit to twelve of which Mr. Adams will select from his collection.  He has opened a new Gallery over Forb’s Jewelry Store, 139 Main St., with a skylight arranged on the most approved principles, which cannot be equaled unless similarly situated fronting on the river.  With rooms easy of access, large and well arranged, with every convenience for making first class pictures of every style and size.  He is happy to announce that he will be assisted by Mr. Cady the artist who made the pictures that were awarded the highest premium, a Gold medal, at the last fair of the American Institute at Castle Garden, New York, also the only premium awarded for Daguerreotypes at the Worlds Fairs at Paris.  Mr. A. has received five medals and eight diplomas for the best daguerreotypes exhibited at different fairs in the United States, which fully attest to the superiority and having been honored with a large proportion of the business in Wheeling the past year he expects with increased facilities not only to retain but enlarge the number of his patrons, more especially as he relies on the intristic merits of his productions rather than a display of furniture.  Ambrotypes either on single or double glass.  Daguerreotypes plain or colored equal to painting on Ivory.  Photographs from the lowest prices up to fifty dollars.  Our light being made of French Plate Glass and being unobstructed by other buildings, pictures can be made      from sunrise to sunset.  Pictures of children taken instantaneously from 9 A. M. to 3 P. M.  Yet the light is so soft and mild that persons with weak eyes can sit by it with perfect ease.  Cloudy days as good as any by this light.  Call and examine before engaging elsewhere.

1858/1859 New York City Directory an advertisements on page 7 reads Ambrotypes, Photographs, Niellographs, &c.  No. 343 Canal Street, three doors West of Greene St., New York.

Niellographs may be enclosed in letters, and sent to any part of the world, without additional charge.

1858/1859 New York City Directory, residence section he is recorded as a daguerreotypes, 343 Canal.

1859/1860 New York City Directory, residence section he is recorded as a daguerreotypes, H-79 Sullivan. He is also recorded as Cady & Adams, (James Cady & George Adams), photographist, 343 Canal.

1860/1861 New York City Directory residence section he is recorded as a daguerreotypes, 343 Canal.

1861/1862 New York City Directory residence section he is recorded as an artist, 343 Canal

1862/18631 New York City Directory residence section he is recorded as photographs, 343 Canal, H-43 E. 28th.

1863/1864 New York City Directory residence he is recorded as a photographer, 343 Canal.

1864/1865 New York City Directory residence section he is recorded as a  photographer, 343 Canal.

1865/1866, or the 1866/1867  New York City Directory residence section he is not listed.

James Cady is recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry as being active in New York City in 1858-1860.  It is possible that the George Adams who was active in Worcester, Massachusetts; Providence, Rhode Island; Washington, D. C.; Morgantown, Virginia and Wheeling, Virginia is the same George Adams who Cady was in partnership with in 1859.

Adams & Dunshee

Daguerreotypes, , , , ,

1854                Pennsylvania Avenue, Between 4½ and 6th Streets, Washington, D. C.

Adams & Dunshee (George Adams & Edward S. Dunshee) were recorded in four advertisements and one announcement in the Daily Evening Star (Washington, D. C.).  The first advertisement ran from January 12 to April 4, 1854.  Metropolitan Daguerrian Gallery.  (Formerly Thompson’s)  The proprietors having purchased the above establishment would invite the attention of the citizens of Washington and vicinity to specimens of their photographic skill which have excited the admiration of all who have seen them , and which are admitted by artists to be unsurpassed if equaled by anything heretofore attained in the art.

Miniatures made in every style equally as well in cloudy as fair weather.

Especial attention is solicited to our new style of colored photographs.  Adams & Dunshee.    

The announcement appeared on January 16, 1854.  Daguerreotypes.—We were shown to-day some specimens of colored daguerreotypes, by Adams & Dunshee, successors to Thompson, at the Metropolitan Gallery, on Pa. avenue, between 4½ and 6th streets, which for delicacy of finish and beauty of coloring, are inimitable, the flesh tint is equal to life.  the colored daguerreotypes are a great improvement upon the plain ones.

The second advertisement ran from January 16 to 31, 1854.  Adams & Dunshee, successors to Thompson, are making and coloring Daguerreotypes superior in beauty and delicacy of finish to any heretofore made in the city.  Pa. avenue between 4½ and 6th streets

Call at their Metropolitan Gallery, and examine their work.            

The third advertisement ran from January 28 to February 7, 1854. Popular Demonstrations.—This emphatically an age of demonstrations, but one of the most popular and agreeable demonstrations we think of just now is that which test the excellence and superiority of the Daguerreotypes made by Adams & Dunshee successors to Thompson.  Their Gallery is over Lane & Tucker’s Store, Pennsylvania avenue, between 4½ and 6th street.

Give them a call and you will find that “seeing is believing.”  jan 26.

The fourth advertisement ran from February 8 to March 30, 1854. Metropolitan Gallery.—We cannot too highly recommend to the notice of our readers the beautiful Stereoscope Miniatures made by Messrs. Adams & Dunshee, successors to Thompson.  They are practical Daguerreotypist and fully understand the business which is evident from an inspection of their productions.  They give to their subjects an easy natural position, the right tone of complexion, harmonize the lights, manage the reflections, soften the shadows, and in fact give you a Daguerreotype which cannot be equaled in this city, in proof of which they will be happy to make a picture of any person, free of expense, who would like to test their skill in comparison with rival establishments.

Remember the “Metropolitan Gallery,” formerly Thompson’s, Pa. avenue, bet. 4½ and 6th sts.

Both George Adams and Edward S. Dunshee are recorded in other photographic directories, but not as partners or as being active in Washington, D. C.

Adams & Chapin

Daguerreotypes, , , , , ,

1851                Waldo Block, Worcester, Massachusetts.

Adams & Chapin (George Adams & Moses Sanford Chapin) were recorded in eight advertisements and one announcement in the Worcester Daily Spy (Worcester, Massachusetts).  The first advertisement ran from May 24 to July 8, 1851

Adams & Chapin’s Premium Daguerreotypes, Waldo Block. 

Call and examine Specimens.

“Ah!  see what a picture, behold what a grace

Lives in that posture and beams in that face,

As the sun-light transfers the soul-speaking eye;

It flashes in joy, though there is ‘nobody’ nigh.

Who ‘nobody’ is there is no need to tell,

Since the lassie herself knows the secret so well;—

Enough that we trace in such touching perfection

The intended—an object of cherished affection.”

The second advertisement ran from June 17 to July 8, 1851.  Daguerreotypes!  Who received the highest premium—a Silver Medal and Diploma— at the Mechanics’ Fair, in 1848?  Adams.

Who was the only person to whom was awarded a Silver Medal for the best Types exhibited at the Mechanics Fair in 1849?  Adams.

Who intends to make Daguerreotypes that will distance all competitors for the Fair of 1851?  Adams & Chapin, of Waldo Block.

Brother Artist, take particular notice.

The third advertisement ran from June 20 to 23 1851.  Notice.—In reference to a certain article that appeared in the Spy, dated June__, I would say, in reply, being requested so to do by that Daguerrian Artist to “take notice” who it was that took the medal in 1848.  It was Walker & Adams, not Adams alone, as be stated.  Who was it that took the medal alone, in 1848?

A. W. Van Alstin.

Adams; perhaps the public will say.  Why not A. W. Van Alstin?  Because he was in California.

Who was it that took so many poor pictures in my room while I was there?

Moses S. Chapin.

Where is George Adams operating at the present time?

Providence, R. I., not in Worcester.

Who is in the rooms formerly occupied by Adams?

Moses S. Chapin.

I hope that the remainder of the Artist’ will soon appear, and place him in his proper position, which is at the bench, with a saw and jack-plane.  A. W. Van Alstin.

The fourth advertisement ran from June 25 to 27, 1851.  Particular Notice.—A. W. Van Alstin, alias Dr. Van Alstin, (formerly a Corn Doctor,) of late from California, and “formerly of Lowell,” is respectfully informed that any statement, however false and malicious, he may publish, respecting us, we are willing should go to the public without any comments or refutations from us, believing it unnecessary, so long as the articles appear where he is known, and over his own signature.  G. Adams.  M. S. Chapin

The fifth advertisement ran from June 25 to July 8, 1851.  A. W. Van Alstin, in reference to a “Particular Notice,” which has appeared, signed “G. Adams,” and “M. S. Chapin,” respectfully refers the public to the Report of the Worcester County Mechanics Association, and would ask the following simple facts, quoted from that Report, and denied by “G. Adams” and “M. S. Chapin,” are “false and malicious.”—”No. 49,

A. W. Van Alstin, First Class Daguerreotypes, Silver Medal.”  “No. 630, Walker & Adams, Silver Medal”

Is it “false or malicious” to say that Adams is in Providence, R. I., when he is in Providence, R. I., although it is pretended he is in Worcester?  Is it “false or malicious” to say that A. W. Van Alstin can always be found at his own stand, taking the best Daguerreotypes that can be taken?  A. W. Van Alstin knows that when a rogues corns are trampled on, the rogue halloos; but he begs to say that if certain too tender-toed pseudo-daguerreotypists will call at A. W. Van Alstin’s rooms, over the New York Store, Worcester, he will cure them of the disease in their feet, and present them with their likeness gratis.  A. W. Van Alstin.

The announcement appeared on August 5, 1851.  Splendid Daguerreotypes.—Mr. Adams has returned to his old stand, having during his absence, been practicing in taking the new style of pictures, called vignette daguerreotypes.  Specimens may be seen at the rooms of Messrs. Adams & Chapin, over Waldo Hall, where customers can be accommodated either in the new or old style.  These specimens are exceedingly beautiful.  There is a softness and delicacy in the style, which we think will make them very popular, wherever they become known.  If executed with the skill and taste evinced in those above referred to.

The sixth advertisement ran from August 22 to September 12, 1851.  That the public appreciate the beautiful Daguerreotypes made by Adams & Chapin, in Waldo Block, is sufficiently evident to any one who visits their rooms, as they are constantly thronged with a class of our citizens who have the taste and judgment to disseminate and admire their splendid Miniatures.  The Vignette Daguerreotype is growing rapidly in popularity. 

The seventh advertisement ran from September 29 to October 7, 1851.  Particular Notice.—Geo. Adams would respectfully announce to his friends and the public, that the limitation of his engagement with Mr. Chapin, of Waldo Block, having expired, he has taken a suit of rooms in Brinley Row, over the Citizens Bank, and directly opposite the American House, where all those who are capable of appreciating fine Daguerreotypes are invited to call.  Mr. A.’s Rooms are very easy of access, spacious, and fitted up with every convenience to produce good miniatures.  The room for his Sky-light is of a size suitable for making a group of 40 persons on one plate.

The eighth advertisement ran from January 9 to February 11, 1852.  To the Public—The well known Daguerrean Rooms, Waldo Block, formally owned and occupied by Geo. Adams, and More recently by Adams & Chapin, have not been removed, but still are the center of attraction for all who appreciate good Daguerreotypes, as the facilities for taking daguerreotypes are such as cannot be surpassed in this city, if in the world.  The limitation between Messrs. Adams & Chapin and Adams & Co. Having ceased Sept. 18, 1851, Mr. Chapin would say to the public, that those splendidly finished Daguerrean Rooms, Waldo Block, are still open for exhibition, or all who may favor him with a call Mr. Chapin would say to all who would like good Daguerreotypes of themselves or friends, they will do well to call on Mr. C., Waldo Block, where all may be sure of obtaining perfect daguerreotypes for the extreme low price of 50 cents.  Perfect satisfaction given or no charge.  Particular attention paid to taking Children.—Hours for taking children from 9 A. M. to 3 P. M.  Call and examine for yourselves.         

George Adams & Moses Sanford Chapin are both recorded in other photographic directories but not in partnership.

Walker & Adams

Daguerreotypes, , , , , ,

1848                136 Main Street, Worcester, Massachusetts.

Walker & Adams (Samuel Lear Walker & George Adams) were recorded in three advertisements and one announcement in the Worcester Daily Spy (Worcester, Massachusetts).  The first advertisement ran on July 6 & 7, 1848.  “A. W. Van Alstin, late of Lowell.”   It was not my intention to notice you again, satisfied as I was that instead of answering facts, you would have recourse to falsehoods to sustain yourself.  You allude to a law suit I had in Norwich.  True, I had the misfortune to have a competitor a miserable fellow—a fit boon companion of yourself, a man by name of N. S. Bennett who according to his own statement escaped from a jail in Canada, a man only to be known to be depressed.  This fellow after persuing nearly the same course towards me that you have since done, tore my sign from my door in my presence, and I did, in the excitement of the moment, throw one of his at his head, for which he brought a suit against me and recovered 25 cents damage, which was duly collected by Mr. Warren of this city.  As to the Sag Harbor advertisement, it is only necessary for me to say, that it was written by N. S. Bennett, and published in the Norwich News at the instigation of said Bennett, during the absence of the responsible Editor.  Mr. Faulkner, the Editor of the News, upon ascertaining the facts, fully contradicted the false statement made by Bennett, at the same time speaking of him as he deserved.  As to the character I sustain in Norwich, I would refer to the Editor of the Norwich News.  Mr. Failkner, Wm. L. Hommedieu, Esq., P. M. and indeed, to any of the business men of Norwich.  Many of the citizens of Worcester know the course you have persued towards me, since I came to this city.  I came here with the intention of persuing my business as I had a right to do.  I said nothing respecting you or your pictures, and treated you with civility.  But you, envious of the superiority of my pictures and my increasing business, commenced your low and miserable acts towards me.  You first endeavored to excite a prejudice against me, stating that I tore your Bills down—a base falsehood, which I have dared you to prove.  Failing in this, you hired a room in the Exchange, with the intention and boast of running me out of town in one month.  You, at that time, put out your sign to take pictures for 50 cts., but the public understood your motive and avoided your room, and you was obliged to sail under false colors, and pretend to sell out to get any custom.  At the same time you offered the Worcester Brass Band $25, to induced them to have me leave.  But they “scorned the bribe” and exposed you in the Transcript and Telegraph.  You, at the same time, tore down my bills at night; which statement I can prove, when called upon.  While I was in the Exchange, you copied my card, word for word, as anyone can see buy reading yours and comparing it with the one I had printed previously.  You have since boasted, that you would have a show case, made to hang at the door, exactly like mine, so that strangers would think your room was mine.  If you deny it, I will prove it.  You have stated that I did not pay my operators, and spoke of Mr. Lyon as an instance, at the same time you knew that it was a base and malignant falsehood.  You have heaped your abuse upon me daily, and now I challenge you to produce any evidence that I have ever done any mean or dishonorable act.

Notwithstanding your paid-for puffs, and ridiculous statements, respecting your business the public have not been deceived, but have compared your pictures with those made by me, and have patronized me accordingly.  In one of your letters, you say that you have pictures of mine that you have taken over which you will sell for 14 cts. per lb.  I will give you $50,00 per lb. For all you can produce.

For want of patronage, it seems that you and your man in the Exchange are to take Daguerreotypes for 50 cts.—I never knew before what you estimated your pictures to be worth, but, as you have set your own value on them, the public will probably consider that high enough.  The writer of your communication has called me many hard names, but I shall not return the compliment by bestowing common epithets on you.  I can call you something you are ashamed of, a name that you for more than a year endeavored to hide from the citizens of Worcester, that name is “a. w. van alstin” late of Lowell.  In conclusion I would say, respecting your threat of introducing me to friend Mathews, that, whenever you are ready, you will find me at 136 Main St.  G. Adams

The announcement appeared on September 27, 1848.  Splendid Daguerreotypes.  On Monday we called by invitation at the Daguerreotype Rooms of Walker & Adams, and examined, with great satisfaction, a suite of pictures, prepared by them for the Mechanics Fair, now open in this city.  They were certainly che  d’oeures in the art, and cannot be excelled by any establishment in the country; and we have never seen any French or English daguerreotypes equal to them.  We presume these specimens are now to be seen at the exhibition, where others will have the opportunity to judge whether our eulogium is over wrought or not.  We learn with pleasure, that the success of these enterprising artists is such that they have been obliged to add another room to their suite, and will soon have it open, extending through the whole length of the building from front to rear, when they will be able to accommodate their numerous visitors better than they can do now.

The second advertisement ran fromJanuary 2 to 18, 1849.  To The Public.  In justice to my late partner Mr. S. L. Walker, and myself, I am reluctantly compelled to appear before the public and make a statement of a few facts relative to the Report of the Committee on Fine Arts at the Mechanics Fair held in this City in Sept. Last.  Agreeably to the invitation of the Mechanics Association, we were induced to enter for competition and examination at said Fair specimens of Daguerreotypes made by us.

Since the Report of the Fair has been published.  I have had conversation with five of the six members of the committee on Fine Arts. and they have informed me that at the examination of the Daguerreotypes of the different Artists, at said Fair, the Committee were UNANIMOUS in the opinion that those made by Walker & Adams were very superior and the BEST submitted to their examination.  Such having been the decision of the Committee, some of its members, as well as the public, were surprised in reading the Chairman’s Report, to find that an artist, whose specimens they considered second best, has received an award for pictures of the first class.  But the following may, perhaps, throw some light on the subject: I was informed by the chairman “that the Committee considered Walker & Adams’ types the Best; that the Report was so made out, but that the Association suggested, that, as there had been an old quarrel between Adams and a rival artist, they had better smooth it over and give them both a medal.”

Such is the case, the inference to be drawn is, that the Association awarded medals, not on the score of merit, but to settle old difficulties, and smooth over old quarrels.  Is this one of the objects of the Association?

Will the Association, or those interested, put us to the “proof positive” of the above statements?

Geo. Adams, late of Walker & Adams.

The third advertisement ranfrom June 20 to 23 1851.  In reference to a certain article that appeared in the Spy, dated June__, I would say, in reply, being requested so to do by that Daguerrian Artist to “take notice” who it was that took the medal in 1848.  It was Walker & Adams, not Adams alone, as be stated.  Who was it that took the medal alone, in 1848? 

A. W. Van Alstin.

Adams; perhaps the public will say.  Why not A. W. Van Alstin?  Because he was in California.

Who was it that took so many poor pictures in my room while I was there?

Moses S. Chapin.

Where is George Adams operating at the present time?

Providence, R. I., not in Worcester.

Who is in the rooms formerly occupied by Adams?

Moses S. Chapin.

I hope that the remainder of the Artist’ will soon appear, and place him in his proper position, which is at the bench, with a saw and jack-plane.  A. W. Van Alstin.

Walker & Adams are not listed in other photographic directories as partners.  Both Samuel Lear Walker and George Adams are recorded in other directories, etc.

Joseph K. Bundy

Daguerreotypes, , , ,

1848                Waldo Block, Worcester, Massachusetts.                                                                    1850                142 Main Street, Worcester, Massachusetts.                                                                1852                Brinley Row, Worcester, Massachusetts.[1]                                                                1854                District 4, Southbridge, Massachusetts.

Joseph K. Bundy was recorded in 1848 and in 1854 in A Directory of Massachusetts Photographer, 1839-1900.  On March 23, 1850 he appeared in an advertisement in the Worcester Daily Spy (Worcester, Massachusetts) that ran until May 18, 1850.  Can’t be Beat!  The subscriber would say to his old friends in this City and vicinity that he has taken the well known Daguerreotype Rooms, No. 142 Main Street, Worcester, two doors north of B. L. Hardon & Co.’s Store, where he is prepared to take As Good Pictures, and as Cheap, as can be taken in this or any other city, and set them in Cases, Lockets, Pins, and Rings.  No pains will be spared in giving satisfaction.  Ladies and Gentlemen are invited to call and examine specimens before sitting elsewhere.    J. K. Bundy

On April 4, 1850 in the same paper the following announcement appeared.  Fine daguerreotypes.  We would call the attention of our readers to J. K. Bundy’s advertisement of Daguerreotypes, at the old stand, next door to B. L. Hardon, & Co.’s Store, where so many good pictures have been made.  Those who wish any thing in his line will be promptly attended to, and may expect good likenesses.

In the same newspaper the following advertisement ran from January 20 to March 29, 1852.  To the Public.  Adams’ Premium Daguerreotypes!  Rooms, directly opposite the American House, over the Citizen’s Bank.

Good Pictures taken as cheap as at any other room in the city.  Customers will find one of the Best Reception Rooms, furnished with Musical Instruments for Ladies and gentlemen to while away their time, while waiting.  Also, one of Carharts Best Æolians for sale. Visitors from the Country are respectfully invited to give us a call.              J. K. Bundy, Assistant Operator.

In 1851 George Adams is reported to be in Providence Rhode Island it is possible that J. K. Bundy as the Assistant Operator is running the gallery in Worcester.

[1] Address based on George Adams’s entry in A Directory of Massachusetts Photographers, 1839-1900.