1842 Address Unknown, Chester, Geauga County, Ohio
1846-1847 Over Ambros’ Confectionary, Opposite State Building, Columbus, Ohio.
1847 Room over I. N. Whiting’s Bookstore, Columbus, Ohio.
1848-1850 First door up stairs, North of the Exchange Bank, Columbus, Ohio.
1852-1853 Address Unknown, Dayton, Ohio.
1855-1856 High Street, A Few Doors North of the American House, Columbus, Ohio.
1857 High Street, A Few Doors North of the American House, Columbus, Ohio.
1858 Corner of Main and Columbus Streets, Lancaster, Ohio.
C. 1858 Address Unknown, Dayton, Ohio.
C. 1858 Address Unknown, Delaware, Ohiio.
1858-1859 Marble Block, Superior Street, Cleveland, Ohio.
Daguerreotype Apparatus, or Speculums for the same, made to order and warranted to be of the first quality. Prices from $25 to $75. All orders promptly attended to. A. Bisbee, Chester, Geauga Co.
Advertisement ran from August 10 to September 14, 1842.
1846 November 30. The Tri-Weekly Ohio Statesman. (Columbus, Ohio.) November 30, 1846, Vol. I, No. 12, P. 3.
Bisbee’s Daguerreotype Rooms, Over Ambros’ Confectionary, Opposite State Building, Columbus, Ohio. Prices for pictures from $1.50 to $10.00, regulated by their size and richness of the case or frame. Citizens or strangers visiting this establishment can have their likenesses taken in this unique style separately or in groups, and neatly set in Cases, Lockets, or Pins, &c., in a few minutes. Gentlemen’s country seats, buildings, portraits and engravings faithfully copied, and every other order punctually attended to.
Likenesses taken equal to any in New York, Philadelphia, or even in Columbus.
Parties are invited to call and judge for themselves. Instructions thoroughly and carefully given , and the best of apparatus, Lenses. Plates, Cases, and Chemicals constantly on hand for sale.
A new and superior accelerating chemical at $1.00 per ounce.
Advertisement ran from November 30, 1846 to May 7, 1857.
1847 February 10. The Tri-Weekly Ohio Statesman. (Columbus, Ohio.) February 10, 1847, Vol. I, No. 68, P. 4.
Tell thew Professor with the millions of visitors, to just call in to Bisbee’s Daguerreotype Rooms on some rainy day, when they have time, and look at some Pictures and the Apparatus which he keeps constantly on hand and for sale. December 30, 1846.
Advertisement was recorded from February 10 to May 12, 1847.
1847 March 22. The Tri-Weekly Ohio Statesman. (Columbus, Ohio.) March 22, 1847, Vol. I, No. 85, P. 2.
Relief of Ireland. We are requested to state that tickets to Mr. John M. Kinney’s Exhibition for the Relief of Ireland, can be had at each of the Printing Offices in the city…and Bisbee’s Daguerrean Rooms…
Here is a chance for our citizens to encourage a most splendid exhibition, and aid the suffering of Ireland at the same time.
1847 May 10. The Tri-Weekly Ohio Statesman. (Columbus, Ohio.) May 10, 1847, Vol. I, No. 106, P. 3.
Just Received By Express, a new lot of Splendid Daguerreotype Apparatus and materials.
Great opportunities offered to those wishing to engage in the business.
Daguerreotype rooms over Ambro’s confectionery, still open fpr a short time for the reception of visitors.
All those having unsettled accounts with the subscriber are invited to call and examine specimens. A. Bisbee.
Advertisement ran from May 10 to 14, 1857.
1847 July 12. The Tri-Weekly Ohio Statesman. (Columbus, Ohio.) July 12, 1847, Vol. I, No. 133, P. 4.
A Card. By the increase of business, and the solicitation of friends and acquaintances, Bisbee has concluded to return to Columbus, within a few weeks, and give everyone a rare chance to obtain a suburb likeness, at prices too low to mention.
Advertisement ran from July 12 to August 4. 1847.
1847 August 9. The Tri-Weekly Ohio Statesman. (Columbus, Ohio.) August 9, 1847, Vol. I, No. 145, P. 3.
I Got Up To Bisbee’s Daguerreotype Rooms, the other day, just in time to get an apparatus before he left. But he has returned and opened a room over I. N. Whiting’s Bookstore, where he intends to remain a few days only. All wishing for likenesses, taken in his unique style, must call soon, for this is positively the last chance.
He has a new lot of Daguerreotype apparatus and materials of the best quality, and will give any one a splendid opportunity to engage in the business.
1848 November 18. The Daily Ohio Statesman. (Columbus, Ohio.) November 18, 1848, Vol. II, No. 301, New Series No. 393, P. 2.
New Daguerreotype Room, First door. Up stairs, North of the Exchange Bank, Columbus, Ohio. A. Bisbee is in the city once more, and having fitted up a new room, with special care for the comfort and convenience of visitors is now prepared to wait on any who may favor him with a call.
Having the largest and best light, constructed purposely for Daguerreotyping, he feels confident that the likenesses he now takes cannot be surpassed. Also having selected several instruments of the best quality for his own use, the first being one of the largest in the world, with which groups may be taken in the best style; also likenesses nearly three times as large as the largest ever before taken in this city. The next is a quick instrument with which, in his superior light, a likeness is taken in one second. Also he has one of the smallest cameras in the world, with which to take miniatures for finger rings, and small lockets.
Likenesses taken every day with regard to weather. All are invited to call and examine specimens.
Apparatus, Plates, Cases and Chemicals, at wholesale and retail.
Advertisement ran from November 18 to December 30, 1848
1850 March 12. The Daily Ohio Statesman. (Columbus, Ohio.) March 12, 1850, Vol. II, No. 707, New Series No. 797, P. 3.
The Last Chance! Bisbee’s Daguerreotype Room Will be open two weeks yet, for the last time, and if any wish to obtain the best quality of Likenesses, they must call immediately. Let no one delay calling till the last few days, as his room will probably be crowded at that time. His entire stock of Daguerreotype Materials and Furniture, are for sale. Also, a splendid Rosewood Piano, for sale very low for cash.
Persons having likenesses in his room as specimens, can have them on reasonable terms as his specimens will be sold at auction soon. Daguerreotype apparatus and cases, for sale by the quantity at cost.
Advertisement ran from March 12 to April 4, 1850.
1850 June 12. The Daily Ohio Statesman. (Columbus, Ohio.) June 12, 1850, Vol. II, No. 780, New Series No. 865, P. 3.
The Fine Arts Still Flourishing. Mr. Winchester having purchased the subscriber’s Daguerreotype Room, we would recommend him to our friends and former patrons as being one of the best artists in the West, and fully able to sustain the character of the Gallery, and meet the wishes of all who would obtain a splendid daguerreotype. Having been personally acquainted with Mr. W. in the East, we can assure every one that he, by his long experience and skill in the business will furnish daguerreotypes, as his specimens show, at least fifty or one hundred per cent better than can be obtained at any other place in this city, and equal to any in America, and at as low prices for the same quality as can be obtained in New York or Philadelphia or elsewhere. Any who wish for likenesses would do well to give him a call at his Gallery, formerly known as Bisbee’s Daguerreotype Room, near the exchange Bank. A. Bisbee.
1852 September 20. Morning Daily True Democrat. (Cleveland, Ohio.) September 20, 1852, Vol. 6, No. 229, P. 3.
Premiums Awarded At The State Fair…Paintings And Drawings…
A. Bisbee, Dayton; daguerreotypes, diploma.
Third Annual Ohio State Fair. We continue from the Cleveland Herald the following notices of the Ohio State Fair:
Daguerreotypes. The improvement in the display of specimens in this beautiful Art over previous State Fairs is striking both as to the number of competitors and elegance and perfectness of the pictures. A portion of the Floral Hall has been fitted up expressly for this Art, and as constantly crowded with admiring visitors…
A Bisbee of Dayton, has filled nearly a whole side, with his grand collection. He has a fine large size picture of Dayton Court House, the best edifice of the kind in Ohio, the Phillips House, and other Dayton views. His view of Cincinnati from Newport is the great Daguerreotype picture of the Exhibition. It presents a plate richly framed about three feet long by ten or twelve inches wide, and gives a river view of the city and hill several miles in length. The panorama is of course true to nature, and is a wonderful triumph of the art. Mr. Bisbee’s Miniatures, single and in groups, are very attractive.
1852 September 23. Scott Soup Bowl. (Cleveland, Ohio.) September 23, 1852, Vol. 1, No. 12, P. 1.
The State Fair…Class II—Domestic Manufacturers…
W. C. North, Cleveland, specimens Daguerreotypes.
A. Bisbee, Dayton, specimen daguerreotypes.
Class II.
Johnson & Fellow, Cleveland—Daguerreotypes.
McDonald & Co., Buffalo—Daguerreotypes.
A. C. Partridge, Wheeling—Daguerreotypes.
S. Root, New York—14 Daguerreotypes.
Mrs. Short, Cleveland—Specimens daguerreotypes.
1852 September 23. Scott Soup Bowl. (Cleveland, Ohio.) September 23, 1852, Vol. 1, No. 12, P. 3.
Ohio State Board of Agriculture—Premium Awarded at the State Fair, held at Cleveland, September 15, 16 and 17, 1852…Paintings And Drawings.
A. Bisbee—daguerreotypes, dip.
1852 September 23. Scott Soup Bowl. (Cleveland, Ohio.) September 23, 1852, Vol. 1, No. 12, P. 4.
Notes of the State Fair. We shall make such specific notice of the articles exhibited at the State Fair as time and circumstances permit, and if any exhibitors are neglected, as probably will be in the multitudes assembled, if will not be for lack of good intention. We should be glad to deal fairly by all. We begin with…
Daguerreotypes.
The improvement in the display of specimens in this beautiful of specimens in this beautiful Art over previous State Fairs is striking both as to number of competitors and elegance and perfectness of the pictures A [portion of ] Floral Hall has been fitted up expressly for this Art, and is constantly crowded with admiring visitors.
Entering from the West, Mrs. Short, of Cleveland, has a pretty group of miniatures, two of them old settlers whose well-known countenances often [ ? ] sunshine on the poor and suffering…
Next are the choice specimens of Messrs. Johnson & Fellows, of Cleveland consisting of six splendid views of Niagara Falls, the Painesville Rail Road Bridge, and two miniatures, on that almost preaches right out, Rev. Dr. Perry.—The views of Niagara are greatly admired, and finely illustrate the perfection and instantaneousness of sun-painting. The views consist of Table Rock—Clifton House from Prospect Point—view of both Falls with –private party on the brink—American Falls from Canada Ferry landing, with small boat crossing with passengers, the countenance of the boatman pulling at the oar so perfect [as] to be recognized by acquaintances—Horse Shoe Falls from Canada Landing—And the Bridge and Rapids from Canada Landing—and the Bridge and Rapids above the American Falls—the dashing waters so instantly transferred to the plate as to present a natural waving and curling appearance! The series is very creditable to the skill of the old and well-known artists.
Mr. North, another Cleveland artist who took the first premium at last year’s State Fair, has filled a large space close at hand with his truly splendid pictures and life-like miniatures. His views of the Weddell, Melodeon, new Jail, &c., are realities, and his groups and single miniatures, many of them well known personages, attract-much attention. One feature, The Editorial corps of the city, including a full length of Lippard in Brotherhood regalia, and Mrs. Gage, the story-teller and poetess, from a” home-picture” good looking of course. The portraits are all perfect—would we could say as much of some of the originals! Little “Zack,” to our eye the gem of North’s collection, is generally mistaken for the “Infant Drummer,” and quite naturally in the absence of a label. There is an air of ease and rest after a boyish rub-a-dub both in countenance and position, rarely obtained in daguerreotypes even of children of larger growth.” North has good reason to be proud of his skill as well as of the Art to which he is devoted…
Next o North’s, is a collection of magnificent Daguerreotypes from Root’s Premium Gallery, New York. Three of the portraits are unusually large and fine. Among the notables miniatured are Madame Alboni, Horace Greeley, Geo. M. Dallas, and P. T. Barnum, the picture no humbug at least. Our Western Artists will have to look out for their laurels. In a homely frontier phrase, it is now “Root hog or die!” for premiums.
The Old Dominion is also in the field with pictures “ardent as a Southern Sun can make them.” Mr. Partridge, of Wheeling, has a numerous a fine display of pictures and miniatures; ranged by the side of New York. He has beautiful views of Zane’s Island in the Ohio, and the Wheeling Suspension Bridge, the span 1010 feet. It is a spider’s web in mid-air, the most delicate tracery being limned in beauty by the unerring light. Rev. Dr. Campbell, Dr. Valentine, and a host of the lesser known are submitted to the admiration of thousands. A group of a hundred or more little Misses on a single plate, all standing in compact order, is a sweet picture Old Sol must have been delighted in taking.
A. Bisbee, of Dayton, has filled nearly a whole side with his grand collection. He has a fine, large size picture of Dayton Court House, the best edifice of the kind in Ohio, the Phillips House and other Dayton views. His view of Cincinnati from Newport, is the great Daguerreotype picture of the exhibition. It presents a plate richly framed, about 8 feet long by 10 or 12 inches wide, and gives a river view of the city and hills several miles in length! The panorama is of course faithful to nature, and is a wonderful triumph of the Art. Mr. B.’s miniatures, single and in groups, are very attractive.
Last, but not least, are a group of three ladies and two other miniatures of large size, by McDonnell & Co., of Buffalo. It would be difficult to select three more pleasing or meritorious pictures from the entire collection. Everybody stops to admire them, a sufficient meed of praise, unless it be the first approval of the committee.
1852 September 29. The Spirit of Democracy. (Woodville, Ohio.) September 29, 1852, Vol. IX, No. 28, P. 2.
From Cleveland—The Fair…The prize in this department, (pictures not girls) was awarded to Mr. Bisbee, of Dayton, for his view of Cincinnati. This picture, which was got up for the fair at great expense and labor, was taken on several of the large sized plates joined together, so as to form one uninterrupted view of our city, from Mill Creak to some distance above Fulton. The execution was very perfect, displaying great skill and perseverance on the part of the operator. The whole picture was eight feet long by fifteen inches in width. A specimen of the hand
1853 August 19. Semi-Weekly Tribune. (New York, New York.) August 19, 1853. Vol. VIII, No. 859. P. 1.
The Exhibition At The Crystal Palace. XVI. American Art—Daguerreotypes. If there be any one department in the whole building which is peculiarly American, and in which the country shines prominent, it is in that of Daguerreotypes, which are exhibited below stairs; and the collection, which is an extensive one, is made up of contributions from almost every section of the Union where the art is practiced. In contrasting the specimens of art which are taken herewith those taken in European countries, the excellence of American pictures is evident, which is [to] be accounted for by several reasons. In the first place, American skies are freer from fogs and clouds—from bituminous coal not being much used, the atmosphere of our cities is free from smoke, at least upon the Atlantic coasts. Then the chemicals and processes are, generally speaking, of a more sensitive character, and the apparatus is more convenient and suitable than that of Europe. Our little inventions come into play and aid in saving time and developing a good picture, and last, though perhaps not least our people are readier in picking up processes and acquiring the mastery of the art than our trans-Atlantic rivals. Not that we understand the science better, but the detail of the work is acquired in a shorter time by us, while the enormous practice which our operators enjoy combines to render the daguerreotype art a necessary adjunct to the comfort of life. Does a child start on the journey of existence and leave his “father’s hall” forthwith the little image is produced to keep his memory green.. Does the daughter accept the new duties of matron, or does the venerated parent descend into the grave; what means so ready to revive their recollection? Does the lover or the husband go to Australia or California, and not exchange with the beloved one the image of what afforded so much delight to gaze upon? The readiness with which a likeness may be obtained, the truthfulness of the image and the smallness of cost, render it the current pledge of friendship, and the immense number of operators who are supported by the art in this country shows how widely the love of sun-pictures is diffused. Several thousand industrious artists and artisans are occupied in the preparation of very pure chemicals, as bromine, iodine, gold salts, hyperphosphate of soda. Another class prepare silvered plates, cases, buffs, gilding, cut glass, and a hundred little addenda. Then the manufacture of cameras and the grinding of good lenses is an important branch of the business; for without a camera having good lenses the best operator would fail to produce an image which would be distinct or saleable; and even with a good Voigtlander or Harrison camera, it requires great skill to focus the image; for, strange as it may appear, the point where a good view of the sitter is obtained is not the point best adapted for bringing out a good picture. In other words the focus of vision and the focus of chemical action are not the same, and hence when we have the one we lose the other. This is owing to the fact that it is not the rays of color on the solar spectrum which produce the image, but a different set of rays, viz: those of chemical action; and since this is the case, we submit the opinion that it is not possible to obtain a daguerreotype in its natural colors, as Mr. Hill and others have been trying to delude our operators into believing, and leading themselves and others by the [iguis fatuus] of plates tortured into iridescent colors by chemical oxidation. But we are getting discursive upon this beautiful art, which was intended to subserve many other useful purposes than that of portrait painting.
Everybody known how difficult it is to keep silver from tarnishing, and that the action of the light is to destroy all preparations of silver. Some of these are more readily acted on by light than others—are more sensitive, as it is termed. Such are the iodide, bromide, and chloride of silver. These salts cannot be kept exposed to the light for any reason, even a very short time, without undergoing some change; and when a plate of silver has a thin layer of iodine and bromine on its surface; and is placed in a camera, as soon as the screen is raised the image of the sitter falls on the plate. The silver plate is acted on unequally, producing the effects of light and shade when brought out, as it is termed, by exposure to the vapor of quicksilver. It is then fixed or prevented from undergoing further change, by washing it with a solution of gold.
To produce a daguerreotype picture there are five operations necessary. The first is cleaning the plate. This is the stumbling block of most operators. They are not cleanly enough. Several views in this Exhibition show that the plates were not well enough cleaned. Never was a maxim more true than the old one, that “cleanliness is a virtue”—when it has reference to daguerreotyping. The second the second is the foundation of the sensitive iodide of silver over the surface of the plate. The third is the adjusting the plate in the camera obscura, for the purpose of receiving the impression. The fourth is the bringing out the photographic picture, which is invisible when the plate is taken from the camera. The fifth, and last, is to remove the excess of sensitive coating, and thus prevent that susceptibility to change under luminous influence which would otherwise exist and ultimately effect the picture. The second operation is that which gives tone and warmth to the picture, and when performed by skillful hands makes a daguerreotype a beautiful piece of art. The clearness and distinctness of the image is produced by the third process when carefully conducted, and the whole picture should be distinct over the whole plate. These remarks will serve to illustrate the subjoined notes upon the collections in the Exhibition.
Mr. Lawrence exhibited a case in which softness of tone and distinctness of image are united with artistic arrangement. The latter quality is specially noticeable in “The Three Ages.” The mechanical execution of these pictures is unexcelled. These pictures of Mr. L. were exhibited in London. Mr. Brady’s collection is not very large, but there are a few very good pictures exhibited by him. In Gurney’s collection the coloring of the background has a fine effect; there are some very well executed portraits, among which is one of Mr. Forrest, worth notice as a work of art: taken as a Whole there is less softness and more distinctness in this collection than in that of Lawrence. The picture of Ware and his sister is an instance of a picture well developed when the chemical action extends to the margin of the plate. D. Clark, New Brunswick, N. J., has four pictures of merit; and Van Schneidan a small collection of well-selected heads. J. Brown has a collection of portraits of Commodore Perry and the officers of the squadron for the Japan Expedition, in half-size plates: the interest of this collection is much marred by the names of the officers not being attached underneath the plate; it is not too late to rectify this omission. Haas has a whole-plate allegorical figure of a family man reading the paper at home—an excellent idea and well executed. Besides this, he has a couple of other pictures, though on the whole his show is mediocre. In the cases of Harrison & Hill there is displayed excellent artistic arrangement with very indifferent mechanical execution. In the mammoth plates occupied by allegorical designs, the back-ground is wretchedly brought out—the plates were not properly cleaned, and are full of scratches; there are a few half and whole-sized pictures set in gaudy frames.
Webster, of Louisville, KY., has twenty-three pictures possessing clearness. They have, however, been exposed a little too much in the camera; they lack warmth, but are otherwise well developed and exhibit good mechanical execution. Alex Hesler has a collection of whole plates handsomely executed, possessing a nice arrangement of of the drapery, which has the effect of throwing the head out in good relief. There is artistic arrangement in this collection, especially evinced in the picture “Driving a “Trade,” one of a series illustrating character and passion. The panoramic view of Galena, Ill. Shows that city to advantage; and the three views of the Falls of St. Anthony possess great merit. Mr. North, of Cleveland, O., has a case of pretty fail likenesses, perhaps exhibiting the lights too strongly. Bisbee, of Dayton, O. exhibits a panoramic view of Cincinnati from Newport, upon six large plates. This view is, without exception, the finest thing in the whole room; we might even go further, and say that it is the finest view by the Daguerreian process ever exhibited. The mechanical execution is excellent, the perspective good, and the development unsurpassed. The effect of the smoke over the southern part of the city is very finely given. the distinctness of the letter signs, three-quarters of a mile distance and across the Ohio river, is well brought out. The rest of the collection is fair, possessing no peculiar merit. Williamson exhibits a poor collection. Dobyn, Richardson & Co. have several whole size well-executed specimens, in which the mechanical part, the artistic arrangement and the chemical effect is good. The “Cupid Reposing” is a very ungraceful picture of an ill-formed child, and the coloring is bad. That of the Bateman Children, in character, is a good picture. There are some exceedingly well executed heads in this collection.
Long, of St. Louis, has four frames of 180 heads of Wyman’s School, in that city, with the edifice and Principal; they possess no merit. A likeness of Prof. Mitchell, Cincinnati, is well executed. Some of the pictures in this collection are inverted with papier mache frames inlaid with mother of-pearl and tinsel. As this style of frame appears in a few other collections we may as well here express dissent to the use of this material as being too gaudy and wholly unsuitable for daguerreotype plates. These latter are difficult to be viewed except in one light, and from the brightness of their surface, are much set off by deadened color on the frames, while the glare and iridescence of the papier mache add to the difficulty of discerning the picture; the use of such implies bad taste in the artist. We felt this opinion growing upon us as we looked at them and found our view corroborated by a boarding school miss, who whisked alongside of us and caught by the colors, exclaimed, “Oh my! aint those “frames beautiful?” Fitzgibbon has the richest exposition in the Fair—The most expensive frames with a large and passable collection. The mammoth plate of Judge Colt is very good—That of Jenny Lind the best in the exhibition—those of McAllister, Julia Dean, Kate Hays, and Kossuth, are good pictures. His collection of Indian Warriors, is a very fine one, which we understand is to be forwarded to the Ethnological Society of London, to have copies and busts made from them. Masury & Silsbee, Boston exhibited twelve pretty and tasteful plates, with good arrangement and well finished. The collections of Kilsey, Beals, and Howe do not require notice. Whitehurst has a few good pictures in a large and passable collection; he has ten pictures illustrating the Falls of Niagara, which are very well executed. Some of his large heads have their features out of all proportion. Whipple of Boston, has a collection of photographic pictures, which he calls Crystallotypes, taken from Hyalotypes; there is a plate of the moon daguerreotyped, and one of the spots on the sun. McDonnell & Co., Buffalo, have a very poor collection—so poor as not to deserve a place in the exhibition; the views of Niagara are fair. Hawkins exhibits photographs on paper. Drummond, eight plates of the order of Free masons in their lodge dress. Fitzgibbon (already noticed) exhibits a very interesting case, which is a frame of electrotype copies from daguerreotype plates, very beautifully executed. It should not be over looked upon as a mere curiosity to place a daguerreotype plate in a copper solution and take a copper cast from its surface by means of electricity: the copper cast looks much warmer in tone than the original. It is to be regretted that Fitzgibbon did not complete this frame by the insertion of a third plate, by taking a second copy from the copper copy. This would be in relief, like the original silver-plate, and is succeptible of being treated like an engraved plate; yielding, when inked, prints resembling mezzotint. Besides the above collection of daguerreotypes, there is an assortment of cameras, lenses, stereoscopes and photographic paper, which are of interest to those practicing these beautiful arts.
1853 August 26. Daily Forest City. (Cleveland, Ohio.) August 26, 1853, Vol. 2, No. 106, P. 2.
Ohio Artists.—The New York Tribune, in an article on the Daguerreotype department of the Crystal Palace, pays the following handsome compliment to the artists of Ohio:
Mr. North, of Cleveland, O., has a case of pretty fair likenesses, perhaps exhibiting the lights too strongly. Bisbee of Dayton, O., exhibits a panoramic view of Cincinnati from Newport upon six large plates. This view is without exception, the finest thing in the whole room; we might even go further, and say that it is the finest view by the Daguerrean process ever exhibited. The mechanical execution is excellent, the perspective good, and the development unsurpassed. The effect of the smoke over the southern part of the city is very finely given. The distinctness of the letter signs, three quarters of a mile distant and across the Oho river, is well brought out.
1853 August 27. Fremont Journal. (Fremont, Ohio.) August 27, 1853, Vol. I, No. 31, P. 2.
Ohio Artists.—The New York Tribune, in an article on the Daguerreotype department of the Crystal Palace, pays the following handsome compliment to the artists of Ohio:
Mr. North, of Cleveland, O., has a case of pretty fair likenesses, perhaps exhibiting the lights too strongly. Bisbee of Dayton, O., exhibits a panoramic view of Cincinnati from Newport upon six large plates. This view is without exception, the finest thing in the whole room; we might even go further, and say that it is the finest view by the Daguerrean process ever exhibited. The mechanical execution is excellent, the perspective good, and the development unsurpassed. The effect of the smoke over the southern part of the city is very finely given. The distinctness of the letter signs, three quarters of a mile distant and across the Oho river, is well brought out.
1855 April 1. The Daily Ohio Statesman. (Columbus, Ohio.) April 1, 1855, Vol. 1, New Series No. 266, P. 2.
Daguerreotypes. The Great World’s Fair Premium Daguerreotype Gallery! A Few Doors North of the American House, High Street, Columbus, Ohio. A Bisbee Has Returned To This City and opened a Daguerreotype Gallery in his New Building, where he has the best collection of fine Daguerreotypes in America. His Rooms were built and furnished expressly for the business, and are not excelled in beauty or in any particular by any other in any place.
As the quality of his Daguerreotypes is generally known, he deems it unnecessary to speak of it, but will merely say that they have taken the First Premiums (two Diplomas and a Silver Medal) at the Ohio State Fairs for the last three years. Also a Silver Medal for the best Daguerreotypes at the World’s Fair held in the Crystal Palace, New York City. And they have never been excelled at any Fair where they have been exhibited.
An opportunity is now once more offered to the citizens of Columbus, to obtain superior likenesses, put up in the best style.
Ladies and Gentlemen are invited to call.
Advertisement ran from April 1 to 14, 1855.
1855 May 22. The Daily Ohio Statesman. (Columbus, Ohio.) May 22, 1855, Vol. 1, New Series No. 309, P. 3.
A Wind Fall. Good luck to our friend Bisbee, of the Daguerreian Rooms of our city. The modest merit deserves a legacy. It has fallen on the right person this time. We find the following in the Dayton Journal:
Notice.—Mr. Albert Bisbee, a Daguerreian Artist who was, when last heard from, in Dayton, is hereby informed that his Cousin and namesake, Albert H. Bisbee, of this place, (Tullahoma, Tenn.) who died March 27th, has bequeathed to him a part of his estate, consisting of his store in this place, and two Farms situated on Duck river, on one of which is a valuable set of mills and Machinery. Hamlin Jones, Adm’r.
1855 September 9. The Daily Ohio Statesman. (Columbus, Ohio.) September 9, 1855, Vol. 1I, New Series No. 86, P. 2.
Photographs, Crystalotypes, Ambrotypes, Steroscopes (sic.) And Daguerreotypes! The Present Is An Age Of New and wonderful discoveries—particularly in the Photographic Art. There has recently been several new styles of Pictures introduced to the world, which are attracting great attention as likenesses. Each style we are prepared to furnish at the shortest notice. The Ambrotype, in particular, is worthy of attention—it being the Finest And Most Durable Picture, And is made on glass, in about one-forth of the time required for a Daguerreotype.
N. B.—“we would call the attention of the public particularly to the fact” that Bisbee’s Daguerreotypes, at the World’s Fair, in New York City, excelled those of all the “eminent artists” in that city, or any other place; and as such received the premium—a silver medal—which may be seen “dangling at the door.” Also, he has received the First Premium at each State Fair for the last three years.
Remember the place, Bisbee’s New and well established rooms, between the American and Neil House, Columbus. A. Bisbee.
Advertisement ran from September 9 to 30, 1855.
1855 September 27. The Daily Ohio Statesman. (Columbus, Ohio.) September 27, 1855, Vol. 1I, New Series No. 101, P. 3.
Bisbee’s Pictures.—Those in want of Elegant Daguerreotypes, should by all means call on Bisbee, at his splendid establishment, on High street, near the American Hotel. The new style of pictures on glass plates, called Ambrotype, is taken by him in a beautiful manner, and at rates reasonable enough. This style of picture is far superior to those taken by the old method, giving, as it does, a roundness and delicacy so much needed in a perfect likeness.
1855 October 2. The Daily Ohio Statesman. (Columbus, Ohio.) October 2, 1855, Vol. 1I, New Series No. 105, P. 2.
Four Times!! The Man Who Was “Afraid To Exhibit his Pictures at the County Fair,” was at at State Fair, and received the First Premium, which is the forth time he has taken it for best Daguerreotypes at the Ohio State Fairs.
Bisbee has also received a Silver Medal for the best Daguerreotypes at the World’s Fair, in New York City all the “eminent artists” in the world being competitors, notwithstanding.
Photographs, Crystalotypes, Ambrotypes, Stereoscope Pictures and Daguerreotypes, taken in superior style.
Remember the place Bisbee’s New and well established rooms, between the American and Neil House, Columbus.
Advertisement ran from October 2 to 16, 1855.
1855 October 6. The Ohio Farmer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) October 6, 1855, Vol. 4, No. 40, P. 1.
Hall Of The Fine Arts, At The State Fair…
Entering on the eastern end of the hall we see on the south wall a collection of Daguerreotypes and Ambrotypes from the gallery of A. Bisbee, of Columbus, which were very fine. They are bold, they stand out like life, are full of expression, and denote every way superior artistic skill. Their size too are remarkable. It has been deemed a difficult matter with Daguerreans to make large likenesses without distorting some of the proportions. But this difficulty seems to have been overcome in a great degree by Bisbee. His Ambrotypes too are excellent. As some of our readers may not have had a description of this new achievement in art, we will present one here as briefly as we may. The term Ambrotype is derived from the Greek word ambrotos which signifies, imperishable, indestructible. The word denotes the character of the likeness. The pictures are taken on plate glass, and are secured by an indestructible cement, by which the brilliancy of the hues is secured, while the glass itself lasts. Neither water or climate or even acid will effect the colors. This is regarded by scientific men as thus far the ‘ne plus ultra’ of perfection in the art of taking likenesses.
1856 January 9. The Ohio State Journal. (Columbus, Ohio.) January 9, 1856, Vol. XLVI, No.
20, P. 3.
Daguerreotypes. A. Bisbee Has Returned From New York with a large supply of Daguerreotype
Cases, of every description, and in the latest styles. Also,—Gold Lockets, &c.
Let no man deceive you about Ambrotypes—Bisbee is constantly making them by both the
single and double glass process. Also the latest improved Patent Ambrotype, colored in the most
beautiful manner. It is only necessary to see this kind of Ambrotype to be convinced that they
excel all others. The exclusive right to make them in this city is secured by Bisbee, and all
infringement will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
Please [recollect] that Bisbee’s Daguerreotypes have taken the highest premiums for four years
in succession, at the Ohio State Fairs.
Also, a Silver Medal and Diploma for the best Daguerreotypes at the World’s Fair in New York
City.
Rooms on High Street, between American and Neil House.
1856 January 16. The Ohio State Journal. (Columbus, Ohio.) January 16, 1856, Vol. XLVI,
No. 21, P. 3.
“Imposters Abroad!” It is Well Know By Everybody, that Bisbee’s Daguerreotypes and
Ambrotypes. and all pictures made by any one are entirely “worthless,” except those made by
that remarkable old gentleman, and [preserved] by Canada Balsam, which he calls “Impervious
Cement.” And it is surprising that so many intelligent persons will patronize Bisbee and get
these “worthless” likenesses, regardless of the warnings of that latter day [sage.]
But not withstanding Bisbee’s Pictures are such miserable, worthless things, the highest
premiums at the Ohio State Fair [are] given for them, for four years in succession. They were,
also , the best at the World’s Fair, in New York city, for wich a Silver Medal and Diploma were
awarded.
A few of these “worthless” Ambrotypes are placed at Bisbee’s door, where they can be seen with
safety, there being [ample] room to escape should danger approach. The wicked man Bisbee still
continues to make Ambrotypes by the double glass process, also by the latest improved patent
process with convex glass. Likenesses taken by that process are warranted to be superior in tone
and finish and more durable than any other. They also stand out clear from the background, and
[presents] more life like appearance than the [ ? ] gray pictures taken by that patent Balsom
process. A. Bisbee.
1856 May 28. Evening Star. (Washington, D. C.) May 28, 1856, Vol. VII, No. 1,031, P. 1.
List of patents for the week ending May 28, 1856. Albert Bisbee, of Columbus, Ohio, and Y. Day, of Nashville, Tenn.—For improvements in photographic pictures on glass. No. 14,946.
1856 September 24. Cleveland Morning Leader. (Cleveland, Ohio.) September 24, 1856, Vol. 10, No. 204, P. 2.
Pen Jottings Taken On The Fair Ground Yesterday…Fine Arts Hall. This has been fitted up under the supervision of Mr. Allen Smith, Jr. in the fine taste which characterizes this well known artist, although every thing was not quite arranged. We think we hazard nothing in saying that a more charming display of artistical good things, has not graced any previous fair. The oil paintings both on canvas and photographic, were highly creditable to the artists Mr. Smith had his usual variety of finely colored heads, lifelike and beautiful. Nothing which we could say would add many thing to his well established fame. The death of the stag from Landseer will bear looking at more than once. Mr. Ryder exhibits some very fine photographs also colored by Mr. Alonzo Pease which were much admired. The two finest pictures in the room and those which attracted the most attention were two heads of Fremont, one a photograph by North, colored in oil by Smith, and one by Ryder, colored also in oil by Pease. (We noticed as singular that although there were some 6 or 7 pictures of Fremont there was none of Buchanan!) Boisseau also exhibited a number of oil colored Photographs which are much admired. Daguerreotypes, Photographs, Ambrotypes, etc. were there from North, Ryder, Boisseau, of Cleveland, Bisbee of Columbus, and G. W. Collins of Urbana, Ohio, Spherotypes from Stimpson, also of Cleveland.
1856 September 29. Cleveland Daily Plain Dealer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) September 29, 1856, Vol. XII, No. 227, P. 2.
Ohio State Fair. List Of Premiums Awarded,,,
Class H. No. 36. Paintings And Drawings…A. Bisbee, Columbus, best Daguerreotypes…
1856 October 4. The Ohio Farmer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) October 5, 1856, Vol. 5, No. 40, P. 2.
List Of Premiums, Awarded at the Seventh Annual Fair of Ohio, held at Cleveland, Sept. 23-26, 1856…
Paintings, Drawings, And Design—170 Entries…A. Bisbee, Columbus, daguerreotypes, diploma…J. F. Ryder, [Cleveland], photographs, life and small size, [commended]…A. Bisbee, Columbus, ambrotypes, [commended.]…
1856 October 11. The Ohio Farmer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) October 11, 1856, Vol. 5, No. 41, P. 1.
Seventh Annual Fair of Ohio…Fine Arts Hall…Photographs And Ambrotypes.
North of Cleveland, stands without a rival in this department of art. Some of his ambrotypes, are most exquisitely executed. Ryder, Boisseau, Bisbee, Mrs. Short, and Stimpson, were not without merit; some were superior. Some of these pictures had a peculiar appearance, standing out, as it were, from the glass.
Photographs In Oil, (Life Size.) In this department, there were several competitors. Among these, North, Pease, Ryder, Boisseau, and Smith, stand prominent. The rivalship in coloring these photographs in oil, stand chiefly between Smith, Pease and Boisseau, each of whom has a peculiar style. The general expression seemed to be favor of those by Smith, though many preferred those by Pease—others, those by Boisseau.
1857 December 16. The Daily Ohio Statesman. (Columbus, Ohio.) December 16, 1857, New Series Vol. IV, No. 170, P. 2.
Bisbee’s Fine Art Gallery, A Few Doors North of the American House, Columbus, Ohio.
Bisbee, After Being Absent most of the time for the last year, is now at his Gallery and is taking finer Likenesses than ever before. He is also taking Photographs by a new process which makes them equal to a steel engraving. His Sphereotypes, which are the most beautiful as well as the most durable, picture made, are taken at the old prices.
Persons wishing to obtain the finest quality of Pictures will please recollect that Bisbee Received the Highest Premium at the Ohio State Fair five years in succession, and a Silver Medal and Diploma at the World’s Fair, in New York city, for the best Pictures.
Advertisement ran from December 16 to 22, 1857.
1858 March 11. American Lancaster Gazette. (Lancaster, Ohio.) March 11, 1858, March 11, 1858, New Series—Vol. 5, No. 45, P. 2.
Fifty Cent Pictures Going Off By The Dozens At Bisbee’ Ambrotype & Sphereotype ‘One Horse Side-Light Rooms,’ which Have Not Proved A Failure Yet, But are open Daily at the corner of Main and Columbus Streets, (rooms formerly occupied as an Ice Cream Saloon, Where the citizens and inhabitants of the surrounding country are invited to call and examine our “Side-Light” Pictures, and compare them with those made at the two horse ‘Sky-Light Gallery.’ We have just received from New York, A Large Supply of Cases, of all qualities and prices, and are now prepared to furnish all who wish, with an Ambrotype Likeness, cheaper then the cheapest. We also own the exclusive right to make (what the two horse “Sky-light” Professor calls “our new style pictures,”) better known throughout the United States and Europe, as “Bisbee’s Patent Sphereotype,” the most durable and beautiful of all pictures, each of which, when properly finished, has the Patent Stamp on the mat, and no stealing or infringing of others rights.
We are also willing to furnish the Prof. with any number of “pictures” made by our own individual self, at our “One-horse small window side-light rooms” that he may use as specimens, to assist in “getting up a reputation for him,” to bring him up [easy], so that we can trot along together, “it is really a wonder that our friend” did not think of this scheme himself a long time ago, it would have saved him the expense of circulating so many bills every month, making “a great cry, and little” pictures. We would recommend that he examine the (Patent) “laws’ more carefully to which he has reference, and there he will see why the Patent stamp is a proper finish, and also the consequences of not finishing properly.—As to his right to make Sphereotype he has just the same to rob a bank, provided some shrewd boy should sell him printed instructions (for one dollar) how to do it; we also advise him (for his sake) to throw no more stones at “small windows” while he has so “large” ones exposed, of which he boasts.—hose wishing a “Genuine Sphereotype” or perfect “Ambrotype” can obtain them at our rooms, at half the prices for which they are sold at the two-horse “Sky-light gallery” and better pictures than he dare make. Lancaster, January 28, 1858. A. Bisbee.
Advertisement was recorded from March 11 to April 22, 1858.
1858 August 4. Portage County Democrat. (Ravenna, Ohio.) August 4, 1858, Old Series—Vol. XXIX, No. 36, New Series—Vol. X, No. 51, P. 3.
Bisbee’s Patent Sphereotype A. G. Bisbee, Artist, recently of the firm of Bisbee Brothers & Co., at Columbus, O wishes to inform the citizens of Portage Co. that he has located in Ravenna, (in the rooms formerly occupied by L. V. [Statler] & Co. where he will be happy to make this new and beautiful style of likeness for all who may desire.
The Sphereotype is the latest improvement in the Art; by far the best ever offered to the public; and wherever introduced, is fast superseding every other style of Picture. This being its first introduction here, we will state some of its merits: For brilliancy, beauty, truthfulness, and durability, it excels every thing else yet produced. The image stands out in bold stereoscopic relief, from a background of ivory whiteness. This makes a picture that is bold, strong, clear and brilliant; and being hermetically sealed, and rendered impervious to air, moisture or dust, it is imperishable.
The superiority of this style of picture is attested by its having received the first premium at the last Ohio State Fair (having not been in existence before.)
The Sphereotype process being patented, and having purchased the exclusive right for this county, this is the only place where it can be obtained.
The Price Of The Sphereotype Will Be The Same That The Ambrotype Are Sold For In Otheer Rooms In This Section.
Bisbee’s Style of Ambrotypes, also, (which he is prepared to make for those who wish) have received the first premiums at all the Ohio State Fairs for the last five years in succession; the chemicals for their manufacture being known only to the Bisbee Brothers.
We are also prepared to make Melainotypes, Photographs, Ambrotypes, and Pictures on Leather. But few ever prefer these, after seeing the Sphereotype. Being thoroughly posted in every branch of the art, and using superior instruments, and none but pure chemicals, (mostly our own manufacture) and having newly arranged the rooms and light, so as to produce the best effect of light and shade, he is confident that his work will give entire satisfaction.
Particular pains taken to secure good likenesses of children.
A call and examination of his large collection of specimens, in every style, is respectfully solicited, as the only place in the County where the Patent Sphereotype is made.
Rooms in Allen’s block, South side of Main Street, nearly opposite east and Phenix Block. A. G. Bisbee.
1858 September 11. Ohio Farmer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) September 11, 1858, Vol 7, No. 37, P. 4.
Editorial Memoranda. State Fair.—Those interested will not overlook the State Fair items in our advertising columns.
1858 September 11. Ohio Farmer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) September 11, 1858, Vol 7, No. 37, P. 6.
Likenesses.—Mr. Bisbee and Ryder of Cleveland, will exhibit specimens of their photographs and ambrotypes at the State Fair at Sandusky. They are both superior artists, perhaps have no superiors. The Spherotypes od Bisbee are especially life-like. We call the attention of our readers who may attend the Fair to their work.
Bisbee’s rooms are in the Marble Block, and Ryder’s, over the Merchants’ Bank, Superior St., Cleveland.
1858 October 22. Cleveland Daily Plain Dealer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) October 22, 1858, Vol. XIV, No. 250, P. 2.
A. Bisbee, Daguerrean Artist in the Marble Block has taken a superb Photograph of our late guest, the venerable Oliver Culver. Who is this A, Bisbee? We were not aware we had an Artist of that name in the city, yet his chips show workman to be no ordinary merit. Let’s look at him.
1858 November 30. Cleveland Morning Leader. (Cleveland, Ohio.) November 30, 1858, Vol. 12, No. 293, P. 1.
Those beautiful Sphereotype Likenesses are taken at Bisbee’s Gallery in Marble Block, Superiior street.
Advertisement ran from November 30 to
1858 December 1. Cleveland Daily Plain Dealer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) December 1, 1858, Vol. XIV, No. 282, P. 2.
Some weeks since we heard of Bisbee’s Picture Gallery, and than enquired who is Bisbee? Since that time we have been looking after him, and find he has been in the city a few months, and has the best arranged and most elegantly furnished Daguerreotype Rooms that we have seen for a long time. Also by noticing the numerous Silver Medals and Diplomas, we learn that he has been the “lucky man” in receiving the first premium, for the best likenesses, at the Ohio State Fairs for several years in succession, besides a silver medal and diploma at the World’s Fair in N. Y. City. His Sphereotypes are indeed very beautiful. We advise our readers to drop in and take a “look” at them.
1859 August 11. Cleveland Morning Leader. (Cleveland, Ohio.) August 11, 1859, Vol. 12, No. 192, P. 3.
Daguerreotyping, Photography, &c.—So many improvements have been made, and are yearly developing themselves in the art of taking likenesses, that the picture taken by Daguerre, wonderful as they were, have been cast into the shade by the new features which are constantly being brought to our notice. Ambrotypes were the great improvement upon the old style of metallic plate, and were considered as near perfection as we could expect to arrive at. But ambrotypes, although still in almost universal demand for small pictures, were further “improved” as was claimed, by the Melainotypes, and then Photographs made their appearance. Pictures could now be taken on paper direct, and in this form they could be sent over the wide world in a letter or package. Moreover, almost any number of copies could be taken from one “negative,” all precisely alike. These were approved upon by the stereoscopic views, which, when viewed through their instrument, affords endless pleasure. But of all the styles which are in vogue, there is none with more beauty clearness and that meets with more general favor than the Sphereotypes made by A. Bisbee, at his rooms in Marble Block, Superior Street. Mr. Bisbee has a splendid suit of rooms, the reception room having a full front upon Superior street, and being furnished and fitted up in unsurpassed elegance and neatness. In the rear of this are the operating rooms, from which come those beautiful pictures which hang in the cases at the door. All sizes of pictures are taken here from the minutest plate for a ring or locket to the life size photograph, and all being done by scientific workmen, and with the most perfect chemicals and instruments, the results are always satisfactory. We advise our readers to call at his rooms and at least look over his collection of splendid specimens.
1859 August 17. Cleveland Morning Leader. (Cleveland, Ohio.) August 17, 1859, Vol. 12, No. 197, P. 3.
Bisbee’s Daguerrian Gallery.—The Fine Art Gallery of Mr. Bisbee occupies three-fourths of the entire upper floor of French’s Marble Block, and is fitted up in a superb style. His specimens are all fine; indeed, are among the best pictures we have ever seen. Br. Bisbee’s reputation is extensive, and his pictures have been highly praised by the French Scientific Journal, “Cosmos.” He took the first premium at the World’s Fair, New York, although his competitors comprised celebrated artists from all parts of America and Europe. He is the inventor of the new and beautiful style of picture known as the “sphereotype.” He has galleries at Columbus, Dayton, Delaware, and Cleveland, but will give his personal attention to his establishment in this city.
1859 September 7. The Daily Ohio Statesman. (Columbus, Ohio.) September 7, 1859, New Series—Vol. I, No. 82, P. 3.
Mr. M. Witt, who for several years has been engaged in the Daguerrean business in this city, and purchased Bisbee’s Gallery, in Columbus, in which place he proposes to take up his perme3nt abode. Mr. Witt has, as our neighbor justly says, few equals as an artist, and probably no superiors. His business here was a successful one, and his rooms were always properly managed, everybody who called being treated with the utmost politeness, no improper behavior of any sort being tolerated in them. We commend Mr. Witt to the favorable notice of our breather of the press in Columbus, and through them to the people generally of that city, assuring them that they will always find him O. K.—Circleville Herald.
We regret to learn that our worthy fellow citizen, M. Witt, has disposed of his Gallery of Art in this place, with the intention of removing to Columbus. He has for a number of years been engaged in taking likenesses in this city, and in a most successful and satisfactory manner. As an artist he has but few equals and probably no superiors. By his gentlemanly bearing, he has called around him a host of friends, who much regret his determination to leave. Their best wishes will attend him. We congratulate the citizens of Columbus on their acquisition of a first class artist and a worthy citizen, and would bespeak for him a kind reception and a successful business.—Circleville Watchman.
The commendation of our Circleville neighbors are not unworthlly, (sic.) as they are not inadvertently, bestowed. We have examined some of Mr. Witt’s work, and may safely say that we never saw anything in the picture line to excel the delicacy, freshness, and faithfulness of his daguerreotypes. Mr Witt is now refitting Bisbee’s gallery in this city and will soon be prepared to take pictures life size—a new feature in the business. Our readers will find it a pleasure to visit the gallery of this artist at any time.
1859 September 15. Cleveland Morning Leader. (Cleveland, Ohio.) September 15, 1859, Vol. 13, No. 221, P. 3.
Elegant Pictures.—Bisbee has lately placed some elegant pictures in the show case at his door. Among the many excellent Photographs in his collection we notice likenesses of Gov. Chase, Judge McLean and Hon. Thomas Ewing. Stop and look at them as you pass.
1859 September 28. Cleveland Weekly Plain Dealer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) September 28, 1859, Vol. XVIII, No. 39, P. 3.
Ohio State Fair…Zanesville Fair Grounds, Sept. 20, 1859…
Fine Art Hall Is a total failure. If all in it had been offered at a Cuyahoga County Fair they would have been excluded, with perhaps the single exception of the Photographs of A. Bisbee, of Cleveland, which were a God send to the whole exhibition of fine arts;…
1859 September 29. Cleveland Morning Leader. (Cleveland, Ohio.) September 29, 1859, Vol. 13, No. 233, P. 2.
Ohio State Fair…Fine Arts Hall…as did a large collection of ambrotypes, daguerreotypes, sphereotypes, stereotypes, etc., of A. Bisbee, Cleveland. He was awarded a superb medal and two diplomas.
1859 September 29. Holmes County Republican. (Millersburg, Ohio.) September 29, 1859, Vol. 4, No. 6, P. 3.
From the Cleveland Herald. Ohio State Fair. Zanesville, Sept. 22, 1859….
The display at the Fine Art Hall is very poor—in fact, shabby. A few common prints, badly framed, some sixth rate amateur oil paintings, and specimens of penmanship from Commercial Colleges, make up the principal portions of the exhibition. Among the meritorious things in the Hall are several photographs from the Gallery of A. Bisbee of Cleveland…
1859 October 1. Cleveland Morning Leader. (Cleveland, Ohio.) October 1, 1859, Vol. 13, No. 235, P. 3.
Cleveland, Sept. 30, ’59. Mr. Editor:—I noticed in the Leader of yesterday, your remarks about the State Fair in which you say that I had on exhibition Ambrotypes, Daguerreotypes, Sphereotypes, and Stereotypes.—I know of no such pictures denominated Stereotypes. With the exceptions of this, I had what you named with the addition of plain Photographs.—You also made a slight mistake in regard to the number of premiums I received. It was three Silver Medals and two Diplomas. Yours Truly, A. Bisbee.
1859 October 5. Cleveland Morning Leader. (Cleveland, Ohio.) October 5, 1859, Vol. 13, No. 238, P. 3.
Cuyahoga County Fair…Ryder is on hand with a splendid collection of Photographs, such as have taken the premiums at State and County Fairs for years. Bisbee too, has a vary fine gallery of Photographs, Ambrotypes, and Sphereotypes. These two collections attract an admiring crowd.
1859 October 5. Cleveland Morning Leader. (Cleveland, Ohio.) October 5, 1859, Vol. 13, No. 238, P. 3.
Cuyahoga County Fair—Second Day.—…Premiums…Class 28—Paintings…
J. F. Ryder, Cleveland…plain photographs……Premium
J. F. Ryder, Cleveland…colored photographs…Premium
A Bisbee, Cleveland……photographs……….…Premium
A Bisbee, Cleveland……daguerreotypes……….Premium
1859 October 8. Cleveland Morning Leader. (Cleveland, Ohio.) October 8, 1858, Vol. 13, No. 241, P. 3.
Erata.—In our list of premiums awarded at the County Fair. The premium awarded to Bisbee should have read for ambrotypes, instead of photographs.
1859 October 15. The Ohio Farmer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) October 15, 1859, Vol. 8, No. 42, P. 4.
Cuyahoga County Fair…Fine Art Hall is a nice octagonal structure, and was very well filled…Every variety of “Sun paintings” was to be seen, by Cleveland artists, Bisbee and Ryder being the principal ones, and their work is well known for its excellence…
1859 December 20. Cleveland Morning Leader. (Cleveland, Ohio.) December 20, 1859, Vol. 13, No. 302, P. 3.
Now is the time to get your likenesses taken. If you wish one of rare excellence go to Bisbee’s Gallery, 211 Superior.
Photographs, Ambrotypes, Stereoscopes, Sphereotypes warranted superior to those taken at any other place or no charge made.
Advertisement ran from December 20 to 23, 1859.
Pioneer American Photographers, 1839 - 1860 