Tag Archives: Photographer

Albert M. McKenney

Ambrotypes, Daguerrean Car, Daguerreotypes, Photographs, Stereoviews, , , , , , , , , , , ,

1848                7 Batchelder’s Block, Factory Island, Saco, Maine.

1852-1855       86 Factory Island, Opposite the Post Office, Saco, Maine.

1853                Address Unknown, Biddeford, Maine.

1855                163 Middle Street, Portland, Maine.

1856-1857       130 Middle Street, Portland, Maine.

1858-1860       122 Middle Street, Portland, Maine.[1]

1861-1864       122 Middle Street, Portland, Maine

1864                284 Congress Street, Portland, Maine.

Albert M. McKenney was recorded in five announcements and sixteen advertisements in four different newspapers. He was in the partnership of Macomber & McKenney; S. T. & A. M. McKenney; McKenney & Scribner; and by himself.  The first announcement appeared on  October 31, 1848 in the Maine Democrat (Saco, Maine).  From the Union.  Show and Fair.  York County Agricultural Society.  We proceed to fulfil our promise made last week to give an extended account of the Show and Fair held here, Oct. 11th & 12th.  In order to get the proceedings into a reasonable space, it will be necessary to omit so much of the reports of the adjudging Committees as are merely formal, giving in such cases, the list of premiums awarded, only…

Miscellaneous Articles…Macomber & McKenney, Saco, specimens of daguerreotypes, $2.00

The second announcement appeared on October 31,1848 in the Maine Democrat.  From the Union.  Observations Taken At The Fair.  …Messrs. Macomber & McKenney of our place, presented some excellent daguerreotype likenesses, to which we are bound to pay our especial regards, our own likeness, a complete counterpart of ourself, having been elevated to the high dignity of being criticized and passed upon by a competent committee, with the view of awarding to the artist, if deserved, the tribute due to skill.  We are happy to see by the list that the lot, with the editors thrown in, obtained a gratuity of $1.50.

The first advertisement ran from May 11 to July 13, 1852 in the Maine Democrat.  Portable Daguerrian Saloon!!  Mr. A. M. McKenney, Respectfully announces to his friends and the public, in the vicinity of Saco, that he has arrived in this place with his Portable Daguerrian Saloon, And will remain a few weeks.  It is now on Factory Island, Saco.

He would say to them, he is an old and experienced hand at the business, and keeps up with the times by obtaining all of the Latest Improvements in the Art, and by the aid of his Splendid Saloon, which he has built at great expense, expressly for the business, with a large top light, he feels confident he can furnish those who favor him with a call, with as good or better miniatures that any other operator. 

Perfect and durable likenesses, with or without colors, single, or in groups from two to twenty.  Copies taken from other Daguerreotypes, Portraits, Engravings, Paintings, &c.  Sick Persons taken at their residences.  Particular attention paid to taking Corpses.

Plated and Gold Lockets from $1 to $15.  Ladies and Gentlemen are invited to call and examine specimens.  Terms Reasonable. 

N. B.—I would correct an idea which is prevalent, that Miniatures cannot be taken as well in cloudy weather as clear.  I will take as good a Miniature when it rains or snows, as when perfectly clear.  Saco.

The second advertisement ran from February 8 to May 10, 1853in the Maine Democrat. Not Premium Daguerreotypes.  The subscriber, grateful for the liberal patronage bestowed upon him by the citizens of Saco, Biddeford and vicinity, and induced thereby to establish himself permanently in Saco, has the pleasure of informing them that he has purchased the rooms and fixtures of A. H. Beal, recently fitted up on Factory Island, Saco, opposite the Post Office.

The rooms are new, and with the best of Apparatus are inferior to none in the state.

He would say to the public that he commenced the Daguerreian business in its infancy, and has been in the business longer than any other Artist in the County, having made it his constant study for ten years, and devoted much of that time to experimenting in the Art.  He also has a chemical peculiar to himself, and superior to all others, he feels confident he can make a Better picture than any other Artist in this vicinity.

Not wishing, however, the public to rely on his word alone he would be pleased to have ladies and gentlemen visit his rooms and judge for themselves, as he has no intention of deceiving by offering to Wager five hundred dollars that he can take a better miniature than any other Artist.

I have been in Saco and Biddeford, operating in my saloon, about seven months, and in that time have made about 1,000 miniatures, and should have no fears in submitting them to the test of comparison with pictures made by other Artist, not excepting Premium Pictures.

My rooms will be open for visitors all hours of the day.  A Lady will be in attendance in the receiving room to wait upon ladies who favor us with a call.  One and all are respectfully invited to call and examine specimens and sit for pictures, perfect satisfaction guaranteed or no charge made.

I have a large and beautiful assortment of cases, frames, and lockets.  Miniatures taken in all styles, singly or in groups, and in all kinds of weather, equally as good in stormy as in pleasant weather, and at prices that cannot fail to suit.

All kinds of copying done at short notice and in the best manner.

Miniatures taken of sick persons and corpses, at their residences.

Particular Attention Paid To Taking Likenesses Of Children.  A. M. McKenney.

N. B.  I wish to have it distinctly understood by all that I am not connected with any other rooms in Saco or Biddeford.  Be sure to call at A. M. McKenney’s rooms, No. 86 Factory Island, Saco, if you wish a perfect likeness.

Copartnership Notice.  The subscribers have entered into a copartnership this day, under the firm name of S. T. & A. M. McKenney, for the purpose of carrying on the Daguerreotype business.  Their place of business is on Factory Island, Opposite the Post Office, Saco, where they will be happy to see all those in want of Portraits.  A. M. McKenney, S. T. McKenney.  Saco, Feb. 4, 1853.

The third advertisement ran from June 14 to October 25, 1853 in the Maine Democrat (Saco, Maine).  A New Whole Size German Camera.  The only one in the County of York.  Messrs. S. T. & A. M. McKenney would inform the citizens of Saco, Biddeford and vicinity, that they have recently purchased a Whole Size German Camera, for the purpose of making Large Miniatures & for Grouping.

It is double the capacity and more than twice the power of those we have been using.  We can now furnish our customers with as nice a miniature as can be obtained in Boston or elsewhere.  We have also made large addition to our Cases And Frames.  We have the most splendid assortment ever offered in this vicinity.  Please give us a call and examine for yourselves.

Don’t forget the place, S. T. & A. M. McKenney, No. 86, Factory Island, opposite the Post Office, Saco.

The fourth advertisement ran from October 25 to November 8, 1853 in the Maine Democrat. 

Dissolution Of Copartnership.  The Copartnership heretofore existing between S. T. & A. M. McKenney, is this day dissolved by mutual consent.  S. T. McKenney, A. M. McKenney

The fifth advertisement ran from October 25, 1853 to April 4, 1854 in the Maine Democrat. 

Albert M. McKenney, One of the most experienced Artists in the State, will continue to make Good Daguerreotypes at the old stand, No. 86 Factory Island, Saco, Opposite the Post Office.

He returns his most sincere thanks for the liberal patronage bestowed on him by the citizens of Saco, Biddeford, and vicinity, and respectfully solicits a continuance of the same, feeling confident of his ability to take a better Miniature than any other Artist in York County, notwithstanding Bragging Circulars, Chlorine Gas, Advertisements, or Premium Pictures.

I have every facility for taking good Pictures, equal to any other Artist, and have recently obtained some very important improvements in the art, (which are unknown to other Artists in this vicinity.)  Likenesses executed in all styles, Singly, or in Groups, large or small.  Also, several entirely new styles, specimens of which can be seen by calling at my Rooms.  I respectfully invite all to call and examine them.  Perfect satisfaction guaranteed, or no charge made.  Pictures copied in an entirely new and superior manner.  A large assortment of Frames, Cases, and Lockets constantly on hand.  Pictures sold as cheap as at any other place in Saco or Biddeford.

N. B.  No. 86 Factory Island, is the only place “bearing the name of McKenney,” that I am concerned in. 

The sixth advertisement ran from February 3 to April 7, 1854 in The Union and Eastern Journal  (Biddeford, Maine).  Albert M. McKenney, One of the most experienced Artists in the State, will continue to make Good Daguerreotypes at the old stand, No. 86 Factory Island, Saco, opposite the P. O.  He returns his most sincere thanks for the liberal patronage bestowed on him by the citizens of Saco, Biddeford, and vicinity, and respectfully solicits a continuance of the same, feeling confident of his ability to take a Better Miniature than any other Artist in York County, not without standing Bragging Circulars, Chlorine Gas, Advertisements, or Premium Pictures.

I have every facility for taking good Pictures, equal to any other Artist and have recently obtained some very important improvements in the art, (which are unknown to other Artists in this vicinity.)  Likenesses executed in all styles, singly, or in groups, large or small.  Also, several entirely new styles, specimens of which can be seen by calling at my Rooms.  I respectfully invite all to call and examine them.  Perfect satisfaction guaranteed, or no charge made.  Pictures copied in an entirely new and superior manner.  A large assortment of Frames, Cases, and Lockets constantly on hand.  Pictures sold as cheap as at at any other place in Saco, or Biddeford.

N. B. No. 86 Factory Island, is the only place “bearing the name of McKenney,” That I am concerned in.

The third announcement appeared on April 7, 1854 in The Union and Eastern Journal.  Please notice the advertisement of A. M. McKenney, Daguerrean, Factory Island, Saco.  He has some very fine specimens of Stereoscopic Pictures, a new style, which are executed in the highest style of the art.

The seventh advertisement ran from April 7 to June 16, 1854 in The Union and Eastern Journal. 

Stereoscopic Pictures!—Made At—A. M. McKenney’s Daguerrian Rooms!! No. 86 Factory Island, Saco.

This style of Daguerreotype, which is entirely new and very beautiful, can be obtained at no other place in York County.  By this process, two pictures are taken at the same time, of the same person, and when finished, blend together as one, which is magnified to the size of life.

Every kind of Daguerreotype executed in a superior manner.  Copying done at short notice in any kind of weather.  A large assortment of cases, frames and lockets constantly on hand, for sale as cheap as by any other Artist in this vicinity.

The public are respectfully invited to call and examine some fine specimens of the Stereoscopic Pictures.

The eighth advertisement ran from April 11 to August 22, 1854 in the Maine Democrat.  Stereoscopic Pictures!—Made At—A. M. McKenney’s Daguerreian Rooms!!  No. 86 Factory Island, Saco, This style of Daguerreotypes, which is entirely new and very beautiful, can be obtained at no other place in York County.  By this process, two pictures are taken at the same time, of the same person, and when finished, blend together as one, which is magnified to the size of life.

Every kind of Daguerreotype executed in a superior manner.  Copying done at short notice in any kind of weather.  A large assortment of cases, frames and lockets constantly on hand, for sale as cheap as by any other Artist in this vicinity.

The public are respectfully invited to call and examine some fine specimens of the Stereoscopic Pictures.

The ninth advertisement ran from August 29 to December 26, 1854 in the Maine Democrat.  The Best Place—to get a—Daguerreotype Is At A. M. McKenney’s No. 86 Factory Island, Saco.

The tenth advertisement ran from January 2 to October 9, 1855 in the Maine Democrat.  (Saco, Maine.)  January 2, 1855, Vol. XXVI, No. 22, P. 3.

Latest News, From The Saco Daguerreian Gallery, No. 86 Factory Island.  A. M. McKenney makes better Miniatures than any other Artist in this vicinity, and at prices to suit all, from Fifty Cents up-wards.  He has better facilities for making them than any other Artist in this County, (although Brother Artists make false statements to mislead the Public.  All are invited to call, and he will show them a Patent Machine for polishing plates, equal to any in the United States.

Remember the place, No. 86 Factory Island, Saco.  Where will be found a largen assortment of Cases, Lockets; Pins &c., &c., Constantly On Hand.

The eleventh advertisement ran from January 10 to October 26, 1855 in The Union and Eastern Journal.  Latest News, From The Saco Daguerreian Gallery, No. 86 Factory Island.  A. M. McKenney makes better Miniatures than any other Artist in this vicinity, and at prices to suit all, from Fifty Cents up-wards.  He has better facilities for making them than any other Artist in this County, (although Brother Artists make false statements to mislead the Public.  All are invited to call, and he will show them a Patent Machine for polishing plates, equal to any in the United States.

Remember the place, No. 86 Factory Island, Saco.  Where will be found a largen assortment of Cases, Lockets; Pins &c., &c., Constantly On Hand.

The twelfth advertisement ran from August 28 & September 11, 1855 in the Portland Weekly Advertiser (Portland, Maine).  Ambrotypes, Pictures Taken On Glass. At R. Adams & Co., No. 163 Middle Street…Portland.  These Pictures differ essentially from the Daguerreotype, as they can be seen at any angle, are not reversed, will not corrode or change by time, are as permanent as the glass on which they are made, and will retain their brilliancy for ages.

Letters Patent have been obtained for the United States, Great Britain and France, by Mr. Cutting, the Inventor.

R. Adams & Co. have the exclusive right for making these Pictures in this city.  A. M. McKenney.  Rufus Adams.

The thirteenth advertisement ran from October 19 to November 16, 1855 in The Union and Eastern Journal.  Ambrotypes.  Pictures On Glass By A. M. McKenney & Co.  The Ambrotype is one of the greatest improvements achieved in modern photography since the first discovery by Daguerre.  The picture is taken on fine plate glass and united to a corresponding one by an indestructible cement thus securing it in solid glass, as permanent as the silix itself.  The picture is not reversed, has none of the dazzling reflection of the Daguerreotype, is bold and clear in effect and unsurpassed in beauty and finish.  The Ambrotype May be set in monuments, carried to sea or otherwise exposed to weather, in any climate, and will resist the action of the elements and its brilliancy for ages.  They can be seen in any light as well as engravings, and hence are very suitable for large pictures to be hung in frames.  Daguerreotypes can be copied in this permanent style and enlarged to any size.  The public are invited to call and examine specimens at our rooms.  No. 86 Factory Island, Saco.  A. M. McKenny.  A. H. Scribner.

The fourteenth advertisement ran from October 23 to November 13, 1855 in the Maine Democrat.  Ambrotypes.  Pictures On Glass By A. M. McKenney & Co.  The Ambrotype is one of the greatest improvements achieved in modern photography since the first discovery by Daguerre.  The picture is taken on fine plate glass and united to a corresponding one by an indestructible cement thus securing it in solid glass, as permanent as the silix itself.  The picture is not reversed, has none of the dazzling reflection of the Daguerreotype, is bold and clear in effect and unsurpassed in beauty and finish.  The Ambrotype May be set in monuments, carried to sea or otherwise exposed to weather, in any climate, and will resist the action of the elements and its brilliancy for ages.  They can be seen in any light as well as engravings, and hence are very suitable for large pictures to be hung in frames.  Daguerreotypes can be copied in this permanent style and enlarged to any size.  The public are invited to call and examine specimens at our rooms.  No. 86 Factory Island, Saco.  A. M. McKenny.  A. H. Scribner.

The fifteenth advertisement ran from September 30, 1856 to October 21, 1856 in the Christian Mirror (Portland, Maine).  Notice Photographic.  Having secured the services of that old campaigner in the Daguerreotype business, and oldest Ambrotypist in the State, A. M. McKenney, Esq., I am now able to give more of my personal attention to the production of first rate Photographs Pictures from Life, or Copies of Daguerreotypes, executed at short notice.  J. W. C. Morrison, 130 Middle Street.

The sixteen advertisement ran thirteen times between October 12, 1858 to January 25, 1859 in the Portland Weekly Advertiser.  Photographs.  Wonderful Discovery!!  I am prepared to execute Photographs By An Entirely New Process, In A Style Never excelled in this Country.  When finished they resemble a Fine Steel Engraving, Though Far Superior!

Life Size Photographs, In Oil, Water Colors and India Ink.  Photographs of any desired size. 

Copies from old Daguerreotypes or Ambrotypes.

Particular attention paid to Ambrotyping, and all work warranted.

Notice the Sigh of the Big Picture f Daguerre!  122 Middle street, Come And Be Convinced.  A. M. McKenney. 

The fourth announcement appeared on March 8, 1859 in the Portland Weekly Advertiser.  Photographs Of The Police.—We have seen at our Police Station some fine photographic likenesses by McKenny and by Burnham of the members of the police department of our city government.  Those by Barnham are taken on two sheets, sitting and standing in a group.  Those by McKenny are taken separately half-length.—They are admirably executed, and being glassed and framed, present an appropriate ornament to the room.  The arrangement of the photographs in the frame is very tasteful.  The Marshal occupies the centre position flanked by his deputies, while the members are arranged around in an elliptical (Sic. form.  By the way, a more efficient and gentlemanly set of men it would be hard to find than those constituting our police force.

The fifth announcement appeared on May 10, 1859 in the Portland Weekly Advertiser.  Court House.—As this old structure is about to be demolished, those who may wish to keep alive the association and memories connected with it, had better procure a photographic image of it.  An excellent one has just been taken by Mr. A. M. McKenney, and copies can be procured at his rooms, 122 Middle street.

Albert M. McKenney is recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry as being active in Saco, Maine in 1855 and in Portland, Maine from 1858-1860.  I have not included advertisements after 1860 because the research is incomplete.

[1] Craig’s Daguerreian Registry.

J. M. McGrew

Ambrotypes, Melainotypes, Photographs, , , , ,

1857                Address Unknown, Fort Smith, Arkansas.

J. M. McGrew was recorded in one advertisement that was recorded on April 11, 1857 in the Fort Smith Weekly Herald (Fort Smith, Arkansas).  J. M. McGrew, Melainotype, Ambrotype and Sperotype Artist, would respectfully announce to the citizens of Fort Smith and vicinity, that he will visit their city in a short time, for the purpose of taking likenesses in any of the above arts; and, as he has been engaged in the business for the last 10 years, he flatters himself that he can give entire satisfaction, and asks of all to give him an impartial trial, and then compare the likenesses taken by him,, with those taken by other artists, and judge for themselves.  Mar. 28. 

J. M. McGrew is not recorded in other photographic directories.  Note the date at the end of the advertisement Mar. 28, another advertisement for S. H. McGrew[1] ran from March 13 to 27, 1857 in the Arkansas Intelligencer Van Buren, Arkansas.  The distance between Van Buren and Fort Smith, Arkansas is 7.3 miles on modern roads.  It is unknown if they are the same person or possibly related.

[1] Also recorded in Pioneer Photographers From The Mississippi To The Continental Divide A Biographical Dictionary, 1839-1865, and in Arkansas Made a Survey of the Decorative, Mechanical, and Fine Arts produced in Arkansas, 1819-1870, Vol. 2.

James Marston

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

1852                Rooms over L. D. Smith’s Store, Ottawa, Illinois.

1853-1854       Opposite the court house, west side of the square, Ottawa, Illinois.

1854-1857 Nattinger’s Block, south side of the public square, Ottawa, Illinois.

1857-1859       Gallery, over the Bank of Eames, Allen & Co., Ottawa, Illinois.

James Marston was recorded in six announcements and nine advertisements (mentioned in two) advertisement in The Ottawa Free Trader (Ottawa, Illinois).  The first announcement appeared on October 16.  Daguerreotype Likenesses.—We would call attention to the Card of Mr. James Marston in todays paper.  Mr. M. is an experienced hand at his business and his likenesses in every respect are perfect.  He has permanently located himself at this place and will be ever happy to receive the visits of such as are desirous to examine his specimens, at his rooms over L. D. Smith’s store.

The first advertisement ran from October 16, 1853 to May 21, 1853.  Daguerreotypist, James Marston especially informs the citizens of Ottawa and vicinity that he has permanently located himself in this place, and fitted up rooms over L. D. Smith’s store, opposite the Mansion house, where he is prepared to take miniatures of unsurpassed beauty and warranted never to fade.  Prices–$1.50 and upwards.

Mr. J. M.’s experience in the business is of many years standing.  He will guarantee every likeness taken in his gallery to be equal in finish and truthfulness to any taken in the world.

Time for children between the hours of 10 A. M. and 2 P. M.

Invalids waited upon at their residences.  Also likenesses of deceased persons taken.

Secure the shadow ere the substance fade,

Let nature copy that which Nature made. 

The second advertisement ran from May 21, 1853 to July 15, 1854.  Daguerreotypist, James Marston especially informs the citizens of Ottawa and vicinity that he has removed into his new sky light gallery, opposite the court house, west side of the square, where he is prepared to take miniatures in the most improved style of the art.

Mr. J. M.’s experience in the art is of many years standing.  He will guarantee every likeness taken in his gallery to be equal in finish and truthfulness to any taken in the world.

Time for children between the hours of 10 A. M. and 2 P. M.

The subscriber would here beg leave to state that he repudiates entirely, the jockeying system, so common among daguerreans.  His prices are fixed and although not so low as those of some artists, are no higher than will enable him to do justice to himself and patrons.  He will not take pictures unless he can put them up in a system worthy of the art and its professors.  J. Marston.

Miniatures set in lockets, breast-pins, finger rings, and medallions.  Also, likenesses of corpses or deceased persons taken. 

The third advertisement ran from October 28 to December 16, 1854.   Daguerrean Gallery!  James Marston respectfully informs the citizens of Ottawa and all the rest of mankind, that he has spared no expense or pains in fitting a new and splendid sky light gallery in Nattinger’s block, south side of the public square, where he is prepared to take miniatures in the latest and most approved styles of the art.  A good assortment of plain and fancy cases on hand.

Time for taking children under three years of age, from 10 A. M. to 2 P. M., on clear days; all over three years taken in any kind of weather.  Dark dresses always preferable.

Ladies and gentlemen please call; he will be glad to see you whether you want pictures or not. 

The fourth advertisement (first that he was mentioned in) ran from December 16, 1854 to March 17, 1855. Daguerrean Gallery! Miss A. Shedd would take this opportunity of informing her friends and the community at large, that she has bought out the daguerrean rooms formerly occupied by J. Marston, and would say that she is now prepared to take miniatures in the latest and most approved style of the art, having the advantage of a large sky light, and one of C. C. Harrison’s best cameras.

Always a good supply of plain and fancy cases on hand, from $1.50 to $10.

Hours for operation, from 8 A. M. to 4 P. M.  Dark dresses always preferable. 

The fifth advertisement ran from March 31, 1855 to April 5, 1856.  Daguerreotypes.  The subscriber would respectfully inform his old friends and the rest of mankind that he is at his post again, and is prepared to execute likenesses in a superior style to any ever taken in this city before, for I have made a new discovery in the arrangement of light which enables me to give a more truthful and life-like expression to the likeness than is otherwise obtained.  Call in any weather at my new daguerreotype rooms, and you may have your miniatures in a plain case for only $1.50; finer cases at small extra costs.  Extra heads on same plate fifty cents each.  Always come in dark dress, as red, orange, green, or black. 

N. B.  My pictures cannot be excelled anywhere—can be equalled at but few places in the west.  Come in and see, as I will be glad to show faces whether you want anything or not.  James Marston.

The second announcement appeared on October 20, 1855.  The County Fair.  We give to-day as full a report as our limits will permit, of the annual exhibition of the La Salle County Agricultural, Mechanical, and Horticultural Society, held in this city on Tuesday and Wednesday…Domestic Manufactures…The committee awarded premiums as follows:…

Mr. Marston, daguerreotypes, 1st pr. 

The sixth advertisement ran from April 5 to May 10, 1856.  Daguerrean Gallery, Front Rooms, Third Story, in Nattinger’s Block.  James Marston Respectfully informs his friends and the rest of mankind, that he is still at his post, prepared to execute likenesses in a style superior to any ever taken in this city before, for I have made a new discovery in the arrangement of light which enables me to give a more truthful and life-like expression to the likeness than is otherwise obtained.  Call in any weather, at my daguerreotype rooms, and you may have your miniature in a plain case for $1.50; finer cases at small extra cost.  Extra heads on same plate, 50 cents each.  Always come in dark dress, such as red, orange, green, or black.

N. B. My pictures cannot be excelled anywhere, and can be equelled at but a few places in the west.  Come in and see, as I will be glad to show faces whether you want anything or not. 

The third announcement appeared on August 1, 1857.  In the Grammar School Department there is a range of studies which it was supposed would require two years to accomplish, but by dint of much effort on the part of the Assistant and pupils, at the end of four terms, a large class presented themselves for examination as candidates for the High School Department, who sustained their examination remarkably well.  A few have been promoted from this department before, but this is the first class that has passed prepared for promotion, and their preparation reflects much credit upon the Assistant in charge.  And, as they were about to leave her, under whose tuition they had been for a year or more, a number of them left with her their ambrotypes, taken in a group by J. Marston, or the master of the art in the city.

The seventh advertisement ran from August 19, 1857 to October 3, 1857.  New Daguerrian Gallery.  The subscriber having sold out his Daguerrian Gallery, in Nattinger’s Block, with the intention of quitting the business, but through the solicitation of many friends, he has concluded to open another Gallery, over the Bank of Eames, Allen & Co., where he will be ready to receive all who may favor him with a call, on Saturday the 26th inst.  Having an improved sky and side light, he flatters himself that he ca take better pictures than you can get this side of New York.  Thankful for past patronage, I would invite one and all to the new Gallery of James Marston. 

The eighth advertisement ran from October 6, 1857 to October 2, 1858.  New Picture Gallery.  The lovers of fine arts, and the public generally, are invited to examine specimens now on exhibition at the new Rooms just opened over the City Bank of Eames, Allen & Co., north of the Court House, under the supervision of James Marston.

The undersigned having purchased the interest of Mr. Marston, in the above business, is now prepared to furnish Ambrotypes in the highest style of the art, warranted in every instance to give satisfaction or no charge made.  The services of Mr. Marston have been secured for a short time, and those acquainted with his skill will need no further assurance for getting truthful pictures.  A share of the public patronage is solicited.  Ottawa, October 3, 1857.  C. M. Van Doren.

The fourth announcement appeared on May 7, 1859.  Marston is again in the picture business, at the rooms over City Bank.  See advertisement next week.

The fifth announcement appeared on October 1, 1859. The County Fair…2.–Paintings and Drawings. the display was not large–probably a dozen of entries. We scarcely saw them and the committee make no comment. The pictures by Mr. Voegtlin, we are told, however, possessed considerable merit, while the daguerrean pictures, both by Mr. Marston and by Mr. Porter, were as good as they get up anywhere.

Ambrotypes, Jas. Marston.

Oil colored photographs, Jas. Marston.

Uncolored photographs, J. E. Porter.

Ambrotypes and Melainotypes, J. E. Porter.

If there is an inconsistency in this last award, the committee must explain it, for we can’t.

The sixth announcement appeared on October 8, 1859. Premium List.  Full List of Premiums awarded at the Fair of the La Salle Co. Agricultural Society, held at Ottawa, Sept. 28, 29, 30…

19—Paintings and Drawings….

Ambrotypes, 2 entries. Jas. Marston.

Photographs in oil, 1 entry.  Jas. Marston.

Uncolored Photographs, 1 entry.  J. E. Porter.

Ambrotypes & Melainotypes, 1 entry.  J. E. Porter.

The committee have apparently awarded the same premium to Porter and to Marston.  They probably meant, in the last case, the “collection.”

The ninth advertisement (second that he was mentioned in) appeared on May 19, 1860.  Ambrotypes, Melainotypes, And Photographs.  Miss F. J. Webber Would respectfully inform the citizens of Ottawa and vicinity, that she has recently purchased the rooms formerly occupied by Jas. Marston, over the Citizens Bank, north side of the square on Madison st.

Miss W. having the advantage of much experience and superior facilities, feels confident that she can produce as good a picture as can be obtained elsewhere.  Her rooms are pleasantly situated and elegantly furnished for the accommodation of customers, and her stock of cases is very large, comprising all sizes and qualities, varying from 50 cents to $10. and she has also gold lockets and breastpins, which be sold at the lowest prices.

James Marston is recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry as being active in Ottawa, Illinois in 1854-1855 and in 1860.

Edwin J. March

Ambrotypes, Daguerreotypes, Photographs, , , , , ,

1856                86 Factory Island, opposite The Post Office, Saco, Maine.

1858                Rooms Next Door to the Old Post Office, Saco, Maine.

Edwin J. March was recorded in one announcement and two advertisements in the Maine Democrat (Saco, Maine).  The announcement appeared on October 7, 1856 while he was in the partnership of Davis & March (A. R. Davis & Edwin J. Davis).  York & Co.  Agricultural Society.  Reports of Committees made at the recent Cattle Show and Fair…

Report on Paintings, Statuary, Drawing and Daguerreotypes.  Your Committee would respectfully report that the exhibition in their department was meager: nevertheless, it was such as indicated that the Fine Arts were not entirely neglected in the County….

To Ambrotypes marked 175—E. H. McKenney, Biddeford, $3.00

To Ambrotypes marked 25—by Davis & March, Saco, $2.00

The first advertisement ran on February 2 to 16, 1858.  Have your Picture taken before business depression lengthens your faces so that you will be ashamed to see even their shadows delineated on Glass.

Ambrotypes, Daguerreotypes, Glass Pictures, Cloth Pictures, Or any other style required, my be had at as low prices as elsewhere, at March’s Ambrotype Rooms.  (Next Door to the Old Post Office, Saco, Maine.

The second advertisement ran from February 23 to June 8, 1858.  The Place To Get The Best Ambrotypes, Daguerreotypes, And Photographs!  Is at March’s Ambrotype Rooms, Next Door to Old Post Office.

We are bound to make the best pictures!  Call and see.

P.S.  Plain and fancy Cases constantly on hand at the lowest rates.

Edwin J. March is recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry as being active in Saco, Maine in 1856-1857.

Marble Hall Photograph and Ambrotype Gallery

Ambrotypes, Photographs, , ,

1859                Address Unknown, Westfield, New York.

Marble Hall Photograph and Ambrotype Gallery were recorded in one announcement that appeared in the Westfield Republican (Westfield, New York) on January 12, 1859.  The Ambition of the proprietor of Marble Hall Photograph and Ambrotype Gallery seems to excel in his art, and he succeeds admirably.  If you don’t believe it go there, get a picture, and be convinced.

Marble Hall Photograph and Ambrotype Gallery is not recorded in other photographic directories.

J. W. Lowry

Ambrotypes, Melainotypes, Photographs, , , ,

1859                Over Hezekiah’s Fashionable Emporium, Little Rock, Arkansas.

J. W. Lowry was recorded in one advertisement that ran from May 25 to June 29, 1859 in the Arkansas True Democrat (Little Rock, Arkansas).  New Photograph Gallery.  Now open over Hezekiah’s fashionable emporium, and few doors above Anthony house, where the subscriber begs leave to call attention of the citizens of Little Rock and surrounding vicinity, to his new style of life like Ambrotypes and Melainotypes.

Also plain Photographs of any size, not surpassed by any in sharpness, tone and durability.

You who have beauty, should to Lowry take it;

You who have it not, go and let him make it.

Special attention will be given to the ladies.  Prices vary from $1 to $15, according to size and style.  Call and examine at your earliest convenience.  J. W. Lowry, Artist.

N. B.—The likenesses of all ministers of the gospel taken at half price—that is, from 50 cents up.  J. W. L.

J. W. Lowry was not recorded in other photographic directories.

Augustus Le Plongeon

Calotypes, ,

1853                Address Unknown, Honolulu, Hawaii.

Augustus Le Plongeon was recorded in one advertisement that ran from May 7 to June 4 in The Polynesian (Honolulu, Hawaii).  Miniatures and Views on Paper, by the Calotype process.  Augustus Le Plongeon, pupil of the celebrated Artist, William Collie, of England, begs to inform the citizens of Honolulu and vicinity, that he is prepared to take miniatures and views by this new process.  Such miniatures or views can be sent to any part of the world by letter, without injuring.

Mr. Le Plongeon can be found at his residence from 9 A. M. to 4 P. M., at the house lately occupied by Capt. Newell.

Instructions given in the art.  Reference to Mr. A. P. Everett.

Augustus Le Plongeon is not recorded in other photographic directories as being active in Honolulu, Hawaii. Craig’s Daguerreian Registry does list him in San Francisco, California between 1854-1861.

Professor Laine

Photographs, , ,

1855                165 Eighth Avenue, New York, New York.

Professor Laine was mentioned in an advertisement that appeared on September 2, 1855 in The New York Herald (New York, New York).  Photograph’s—Plain or Colored, by Huylar, 165 Eighth avenue, having fitted up this gallery in connection with our daguerreotype business, we would be happy to have our friends give us a call.  E. Huylar, first operator; Professors Leine and Hunt assistants.

Professor Laine is not recorded in other photographic directories.  In a search of the New York City Directories for 1854/1855; 1855/1856 and the 1856/1857 no additional information was found to help identify who Professor Laine was.

William R. Knapp

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

1843                263 Grand Street, Columbia Hall, New York, New York.

1845-1854       103 Bowery, New York, New York.

1851-1855       559 Broadway, near Prince Street, New York, New York.

1855-1856       477 Broadway, New York. New York.

1857                43 Fulton Street, Brooklyn, New York.

1857                103 Bowery, New York, New York.

1858                469 Broadway, New York, New York.

1860                398 Bowery, New York, New York.

New York City Directories

1838/1839—engineer—88 Lewis.

1839/1840—engineer—88 Lewis..

1840/1841—engineer—88 Lewis—h-70 Lewis.

1841/1842—gunsmith—50½ Houston—h-18  ave. D.

1842/1843—gunsmith—50½ [Houston]—h-55 Houston.

1843/1844—gunsmith—302 Rivington.

1844/1845—gunsmith–302 Rivington.

1845/1846—daguerreotype—103 Bowery—h-302 Rivington.

1846/1847—daguerrian—103 Bowery.

1847/1848—daguerreotype—103 Bowery & 226 Bleeker—h558 Fourth.

1848/1849—daguerreotype—103 Bowery—h-558 Fourth.

1849/1850—daguerreotype—103 Bowery—h-644 Fourth.

1850/1851—daguerreotype—103 Bowery—h-644 Fourth.

1851/1852—daguerreotype—103 Bowery—h-188 E. 19th.

1852/1853—daguerrean—103 Bowery & 559 Broadway—h-188 E. 19th.

1853/1854—daguerreian—103 Bowery & 559 Broadway—h-188 E. 19th.

1854/1855—daguerrean—559 Broadway—h-180 E. 19th.

1855/1856—daguerreian—477 Broadway—h-75 E. 40th.

1856/1857—daguerreotypist—477 Broadway—h-75 E. 40th.

1857/1858—not listed.

1858/1859—daguerreotypes-469 Broadway—h 145 E. 32d.

1859/1860—no occupation listed—h-145 E. 32d.

1860/1861—photographs—398 Bowery—h-142 E. 33d.

1861/1862—not listed.

1862/1863—not listed.

William R. Knapp is recorded in one advertisement that ran from October 21 to November 2, 1843 in the  New York Daily Tribune (New York, New York).  Daguerreotype Miniatures are taken in a superior style by Wm. R. Knapp, at Columbian Hall, No. 263 Grand street, with all the latest improvements, including color.  Persons wanting a correct likeness of themselves or friends are respectfully solicited to call and examine specimens.  Pictures are taken in cloudy, stormy and fair weather.  Prices including case, from $1.50 to $4.  Hours from 8 A. M. until 4 P. M.                                                                                          

William R. Knapp is recorded in other photographic directories.  But is included here in part with new information.  The activity dates are derived from the city directories and newspaper accounts of over 30 typed pages that have not been included in the blog.  

Walter I Kirby

Photographs, ,

1859                Address Unknown, New York, New York.

Walter I Kirby was recorded in one advertisement that appeared on April 1, 1859 in The New York Herald (New York, New York).  A Good Photographer, Accustomed To Working the dry and wet processes, the daguerreotype and life size pictures, wishes an engagement.  Address Walter I. Kirby, box 130 Herald office.

Walter I. Kirby is not recorded in other photographic directories.  Kirby is not recorded in the New York City Directories for 1858/1859; 1859/1860 or 1860/1861.