Tag Archives: Photographer

F. M. Burnett

Daguerreotypes, , , , , ,

1852-1855       J. H. Story’s Building, Cooperstown, New York.

1855-1856       Rooms over P. G. Tanner’s Jewelry Store, Cooperstown, New York.

1859                Rooms over George Story’s Saddlery Store, Cooperstown, New York.

F. M. Burnett was recorded in eleven advertisements and one announcement in The Freeman’s Journal (Cooperstown, New York).  The first advertisement ran from November 19, 1852 to January 27, 1854.  Daguerreotype Rooms.  F. M. Burnett Respectfully informs the citizens of Cooperstown and vicinity, that he has taken a Room in J. H. Story’s new building opposite P. G. Turner’s Jewelry Store, where he is ready to wait upon all of those who wish to procure a correct Likeness of themselves or friends.  Attention is invited to the distinct, lively and life-like expression of the eye, the beauty and perfection of the drapery, the depth of tone and softness of light and shade, to the faithful likeness as well as the beauty of finish and artistical skill and taste which his picture exhibit.  A graceful and easy attitude is always studied, and by the aid of an improved instrument, agreeable and life-like Miniatures are readily taken.  Those desiring a faithful Likeness of themselves or friends or copies of Daguerreotypes, Paintings or Engravings, can have their pictures taken in beautiful style and neatly set in Lockets, Rings, or Frames, in a few minutes.  All Miniatures taken at this establishment will be finished in the highest perfection of the art and warranted not to fade by exposure to the light or air—and no person will be required to take Miniatures that are not satisfactory to themselves or friends.  Miniatures taken in any weather.  The public are respectfully invited to visit his Room and judge for themselves as to the excellence of his work.  

The announcement appeared on December 17, 1852.  Daguerreotypes.—Now is the time to procure a good Daguerreotype.  Mr. Burnett, in Story’s building, adjoining this office, and Mr. Bullard, in Dr. Peak’s building, nearly opposite, are both taking excellent pictures.  We don’t pretend to say which takes the best.—Those who examine them can judge for themselves.  Don’t you want one for a New Year present to some friend?

The second advertisement ran from December 24, 1852 to January 13, 1854.  Price Reduced.  F. M. Burnett Announces To The public that he is selling Daguerreotypes at reduced prices.  Medium size cases which he has formerly sold for $2, $1.50; $1.50 cases, $1.  Those who wish to procure correct likenesses, will do well to call on him before purchasing elsewhere.  We think his specimens are equal to any we have seen.  Room in J. H, Story’s new building next to this office. 

The third advertisement ran from January 20, 1854 to June 1, 1855.  Daguerreotypes.  F. M. Burnett Tenders His Thanks to the people of Cooperstown and vicinity for the liberal patronage he has received during the past year, and he is still to be found at his old stand where he is ready to wait upon all those who wish to procure correct Likenesses of themselves or friends.  I am taking Miniatures that are not surpassed by any Artist for beauty of shade and life-like expression of the Eye.  I would call the attention of the public to my Rainbow Oval Pictures, which no other artist can take.  They are pronounced by good judges to be superior to any thing they have ever seen.

Prices moderate and likenesses warranted to please.—Rooms in J. H. Story’s new building, opposite P. G. Tanner’s Jewelry Store, Cooperstown.  Jan. 16, ’54.

The fourth advertisement ran from February 3, 1854 to February 16, 1855.  Rainbow Oval Pictures.  Daguerreotypes.  To The Editor Of The Freeman’s Journal:—I saw an advertisement of my neighbor artist inserted in your columns, which confutes a statement I made public through your press in regards to my Rainbow Oval Pictures.  He claims that he has taken the Rainbow Oval Pictures nearly two years.  I now beg leave through your press to inform the people of Cooperstown that the Rainbow Oval Pictures are of my own invention, and they cannot be obtained in any other Rooms but F. M. Burnett’s.  I do not say my neighbor artist meant wilfully to make a false statement; I imaret it to his ignorance or want of perception in not noticing the difference between a Rainbow and an Oval Picture.—Those pictures that I have seen of my neighbor artist, are nothing more nor less than plain oval pictures, which do not add any thing to the beauty of the Daguerreotype; wherein my pictures have a variety of colors which give softness of light and shade to the drapery, and adds very much to the beauty of the Daguerreotype.  And I do say that I defy my neighbor artist to produce a finish Daguerreotype that has a variety of colors that mine have which I now have to exhibit.

If the ladies and gentlemen of Cooperstown will favor me with a call I will convince them of this fact.  All of those who wish to procure a well developed likeness, and something a little superior to any thing that has been offered heretofore in Cooperstown, will do well to call on.  F. M. Burnett.     

The fifth advertisement ran from June 22, 1855 to January 18, 1856.  Superior Sky-Light Rooms.  F. M. Burnett, Daguerrean, would announce to the Public that he has taken Rooms over P. G. Tanner’s Jewelry Store, and which are very easy of access, where he has a superior Sky Light for taking Daguerreotypes, he would be very happy to receive calls from his friends and patrons, and likewise of all those who wish a likeness superior to any that has been offered heretofore in Cooperstown.—Those desiring a Likeness of themselves or friends, or copy of Daguerreotypes, Paintings or Engravings can have their Pictures taken in beautiful style and neatly set in Lockets, Pins, Rings or Frames, at short notice.

P. S.—In dress avoid blue, white or light pink.  Cooperstown, June 18, 1855.

The sixth advertisement ran from January 25 to July 4, 1856.  Crystalographs.  F. M. Burnett would say to the people of Cooperstown and vicinity, (that he is now putting up a new style of Photograph, which has recently been discovered.  The pictures are similar to cutting’s Ambrotypes, but in the opinion of competent judges, far superior.  A few attributes of this beautiful [    ] of light may be summed up as follows:  They are beyond all question far superior to the best results of the Daguerreotype; their tone is soft, velvety and harmonious in [a] degree never reached by the old art.  Being taken on glass they are exceedingly brilliant, and yet unlike Daguerreotypes they are perfectly distinct in any angle.  The intensity and clearness of the shade combined with the creamy richness of the middle tints, give them a Marked Superiority over every other style of picture in light and shade.  They are without reversal and hence requires no reflector, the process much quicker than Daguerreotypes—working in from 1 to 5 seconds in good light.

Ambrotypes, Photographs and Daguerreotypes put up in beautiful style and at short notice.  Ladies and gentlemen call and examine for yourself.  Instructions given in the Art.  Rooms over P. G. Tanner’s Jewelry store.  F. M. Burnett, Cooperstown, N. Y.

The seventh advertisement ran from February 22 & 29, 1856.  Editor Of The Journal:  I Saw A Notice Of My Neighbor Artists in your paper offering a reward of fifty dollars for a faded ambrotype; but I have not any ambrotypes, therefore I do not expect to be the lucky man.  But now to the point at once, [and] I will state facts as they have been stated to me.  There are two gentlemen residing in this State who went to Olendorf & Smith’s rooms and asked them to put up two as good ambrotype pictures as they could for them, as they wanted to know the durability of them.  They did so, and what was the result.  In a short time one of them became nearly worthless, and the other they experimented with by hanging it in the sun, and it soon changed its brilliancy.  This I had positive from one of the gentlemen.  And likewise there is a gentleman of my acquaintance who had an ambrotype taken in the city of New York, which has become worthless.  I wonder if my neighbor artists would like to have me refer them to a few more cases of the same sort?

But as to informing the people of Cooperstown whether Olendorf & Smith used all the money they have made in Daguerreotyping to purchase the right for taking ambrotypes in this county.  I am not prepared to say.  But this much I will say, I have been credibly informed that Olendorf said they purchased the right for $300, paid $150 down and gave their note for $150:  Now this does not look to me as though they are so very flush with money, after all of their talk and blowing.  But what puzzles me the most, is that my neighbor artists have been taking the ambrotype pictures some five or six months, and nothing but ambrotypes has been the go with them; and now they find many of them have proved worthless and returned to them, yet they say that the ambrotype will not fade—they are the crystalographs that have faded.  Now I ask my neighbors artists if this statement looks reasonable when it has not been more than four weeks since the crystalograph pictures have been introduced into this county.  I say let the people judge for themselves.  I almost wonder that you did not claim to have taken the crystalographs for more than two years, as you did the rainbow oval pictures.

In regard to the single and double glass pictures, I consider a single glass picture is a crystalograph just as much as I do a double glass if they are both taken by the same formula, and I view it in the same light as regards the ambrotypes.  And I am prepared to put up the single or double glass pictures and cement them so they will last for ages if they are properly taken care of; and I am fully convinced my neighbor artist do not know anything about the crystalograph formula, from the very fact they say the two processes are the same.  Here they labor under a great mistake, for there is a great difference in my ambrotype formula and crystalograph formula.  But as regards how much I have paid for the ambrotype and crystalograph formulas I have not told anyone.  And now, my brother artists, I ask if you believe any one can start themselves well in the ambrotype process for twenty five dollars?  If this be the case I should suppose it would not have cost you anywhere near as much in your business as you tell for—But I do not doubt it in the least that it has cost you all you say it has, and a great deal more to learn the ambrotype process, from the very fact that your perceptions are so very dull, I should suppose it would be almost impossible for any one to enlighten them without great effort.

As to the gentlemen going to Albany and buying the right to work the ambrotype process in preference to his crystalographs, does not look very plausible from this fact, that he has been acquainted with the ambrotype process for more than a year, and he considers the crystalograph process far superior to it; and knowing too that he can work the ambrotype process anywhere in the Union, and no one can prevent him.

I think, my brother artists, you had better hire three or four more rooms, and pay the rent, in order to keep other artists out of the village, so you can monopolize the whole business.  What do you say to this?  Is it not a capital idea?

Now I will bid you a short good buy; but I will see you again in the fall, as the melting snow said to the sun.  F. M. Burnett, Cooperstown, Rooms over P. G. Tanner’s Jewelry Store.  feb. 10.

The eighth advertisement ran from March 7 to April 18, 1856.  The Finale.  Mr. Editor Of The Journal:—The correspondence into which I have been forced by my neighbor O. & S. in regard to the different modes of taking Likenesses, is not in accordance with my own inclinations.  They first made their charges.  I read and refuted them.  They return to the matter, with nothing new.—No reply is needed.  Their personalities I pass by without further notice.

And now allow me to say to the good people of Otsego, that they can get as good Picture at my rooms, and at as reasonable rates, as at any other place in the State.  Any pictures that “fade” or do not give full satisfaction, may be returned.  F. M. Burnett.           

The ninth advertisement ran from May 9 to June 27, 1856.  Double Glass Crystalographs, Daguerreotypes and Photographs.  F. M. Burnett would say to the people of Cooperstown and vicinity, that he is now putting up pictures in the latest improved style of the Art, and at reduced prices.  All those who wish for a superb Likeness will do well to call before purchasing elsewhere.  Pictures taken of the Sick at their residences, if desired.  Rooms over P. G. Tanner’s Jewelry Store.  F. M. Burnett.

The tenth advertisement ran from May 27 to December 2, 1859.  Removed.  F. M. Burnett Would respectfully inform the people of Cooperstown and vicinity, that he has removed to the rooms over George Story’s Saddlery Store, formerly occupied by Olendorf & Co. where I have greater facilities for making Ambrotype pictures than heretofore.  The rooms have been neatly fitted up, and the location is the most pleasant that can be found in the village for those wishing to sit for their pictures.  I have a superior Sky Light for taking children and groups.  I would call the attention of the citizens of Cooperstown to my Stereoscopic Ambrotypes which are acknowledged by the best of judges to be superior to any other style of Ambrotype.  Those wishing for the Lyphanotype can have them put up in neater style than they can get in any other gallery in the State.

I would caution the public against purchasing pictures of those artists who cut down the price of pictures in order to get business, for you may know at once that they cannot complete with the first class artists.

The public are invited to call and examine specimens.—Rooms over George Story’s Saddlery Store.  F. M. Burnett, Artist.

The eleventh advertisement ran from December 2 to 23, 1859.  F. M. Burnet, Ambrotypist, Rooms Over Geo. Story’s Saddlery Store, Cooperstown.

F. M. Burnett is recorder as being active in 1859 in Cooperstown, New York, but not before.  It is possible the same F. M. Burnett was active in Salem, Massachusetts in 1848, but corroborating  documentation to date, has not been located.

A. D. Brink

Ambrotypes, Photographs, , ,

1859                137 Eighth Avenue, New York, New York.

A. D. Brink was recorded in one advertisement that appeared on October 8, 1859 in The New York Herald (New York, New York).  Wanted—A Photograph And Ambrotype Gallery.  Address A. D. Brink, 137 8th ave.

A. D Brink is not recorded in other photographic directories.  He is also not listed in the 1859-1860; or the 1860-1861 New York City Directories.

A. S. Bloom

Ambrotypes, Melainotypes, Photographs, , , , , ,

N. D.               14 Fifth Street, Cincinnati, Ohio.

1859                22 West Fifth street, Cincinnati, Ohio.

1859                Corner of Fifth and Western-Row, Cincinnati, Ohio.

A. S. Bloom advertisements were recorded under the heading of Home Interest fifteen times, once in The Daily Press and fourteen times in the Penny Press.  Bloom ran Henry Y. Cowen’s and Harrison & Collins galleries.  The first advertisement ran from March 22 to 26, 1859 in The Daily Press (Cincinnati, Ohio).  Home Interest…Mr. Cowen, of No. 22 Fifth street, has lately associated with him Mr. Bloom, formerly of No. 14 Fifth street.  Two such artist as these are sufficient guarantee as to the quality of their work.

The second advertisement appeared in The Penny Press (Cincinnati, Ohio) on August 22, 1859.Home Interest…Cowen’s Gallery, No. 22 West Fifth-street.—If you want a superior Ambrotype, Photograph, Mezzograph, or a good picture of any style, go to Cowen’s, No. 22 West Fifth-street.  Bloom has charge of the gallery.

Third advertisement ran on August 29 & 30, 1859.  Home Interest…Photographic Gallery—Cowen’s No. 22 West Fifth-street, under Bloom’s management.  If you want a magnificent Photograph go to Cowen’s; for a Ambrotype go to the same place.  Remember, pictures of all styles taken at Cowen’s, No. 22 West Fifth-street.

Fourth advertisement ran on September 13 & 14, 1859.  Home Interest…For fine Photographs, Melainotypes or Ambrotypes, call at the Central Gallery, corner of Fifth and Western-row, in charge of A. S. Bloom, He warrants to please.

Fifth advertisement Appeared on September 19, 1859.  Home Interest…Good Photographs, plain or colored, can be had cheaper than elsewhere at the Central Gallery. Corner Fifth and Western-row, in charge of A. S. Bloom.

Sixth advertisement appeared on September 29, 1859.  Home Interest…For a good Photograph, Melainotype or Ambrotype, don’t fail to call at the Central Gallery, corner of Fifth and Western-row, in charge of A. S. Bloom.

Seventh advertisement appeared on October 5, 1859.  Home Interest…For $5 you can get a fine Oil colored Photograph in a good gilt frame at the Central Photograph and Melainotype Gallery, corner of Fifth and Western-row, in charge of A. S. Bloom.

Eighth advertisement appeared on October 13, 1859.  Home Interest…Good Photographs, Melainotypes and Ambrotypes are taken at the Central Gallery cheaper than elsewhere in the city, corner of Fifth and Western-row, in charge of A. S. Bloom.

Ninth advertisement appeared on October 24, 1859.  Home Interest…A S. Bloom, the well-known Daguerreian, has in charge the Central Photograph, Melainotype and Ambrotype Gallery, corner of Fifth and Western-row.  He is making Pictures cheaper than elsewhere in the city.

Tenth advertisement appeared on October 26, 1859.  Home Interest…Bloom’s Photographs never fail to please.  Call on him and have your Photograph, Melainotype or Ambrotype taken, at the Central Gallery, corner of Fifth and Western-row.

Eleventh advertisement appeared on October 29, 1859.  Home Interest…We have no hesitation in directing people not the Central Photograph and Melainotype Gallery for a truthful and artistic picture.  A. S. Bloom is an artist who understands the magic effect of light and shadow.

Twelfth advertisement appeared on October 29, 1859.  Home Interest…Cheap Pictures, and of the best style of art, you can get at the Central Photograph and Melainotype Gallery, corner of Fifth and Western-row, under charge of A, S, Bloom.

Thirteenth advertisement appeared on October 31, 1859.  Home Interest…Bloom’s Photographs. Melainotypes, Ambrotypes can not be excelled in beauty of art in the city.  Prices moderate at the Central Gallery, corner of Fifth and Western-row.

Fourteenth advertisement appeared on November 3, 1859.  Home Interest…Pictures that won’t fade are made by A. S. Bloom, and cheaper than elsewhere, at the Central Photograph, Melainotype and Ambrotype Gallery, corner of Fifth and Western-row.

The fifteenth advertisement appeared on November 16, 1859. Home Interest…Harrison & Collins’ Central Bee-Hive Gallery, corner of Fifth and Western-row.  Photographs, Melainotypes and Ambrotypes taken cheaper than elsewhere in the city.  Oil Colored Photographs, made of all sizes, from life to the smallest miniature.  Pictures neatly set in Lockets, Breast-pins, Finger rings and Bracelets.  All work warranted.  A. S. Bloom, Artist.A. S. Bloom is not recorded in other photographic directories.

A. S. Bloom is not recorded in other photographic directories as being active in 1859 or before.  Ohio Photographers 1839-1900 by Diane VanSkiver Gagel does list Bloom as being active in Cincinnati in 1861 & 1862.

William P. Bickel

Ambrotypes, Melainotypes, Photographs, , , , ,

1857                Rooms at the Opelousas Varieties, Opelousas, Louisiana.

1858                Rooms at the Opelousas Varieties, Opelousas, Louisiana.

William P. Bickel was recorded in three advertisement and one announcements.  The first advertisement ran from June 20 to July 18, 1857 in  The Opelousas Courier (Opelousas, Louisiana).  Ambrotype Portraits.  Wm. P. Bickel, the Ambrotype Artist, has arrived in Opelousas and opened his Gallery in the Varieties, where he will remain a short time, for the purpose of supplying the citizens of this vicinity with his celebrated new style of pictures, so celebrated at present throughout the world, as being superior to all other styles of Photographic pictures known, not only for its beautiful delineation, its brilliancy of tone , but for its everlasting durability, from whence it takes its name—Ambrotoz (Greek) eternal, imperishable.

The announcement appeared March 27, 1858 in The Opelousas Patriot (Opelousas, Louisiana).  The artist skill will supply all with pictures of the best and newest styles:—call on our friends Millspaugh & Bouchez, who have established a permanent Photographic and Ambrotype Room at Odd Fellows’ Hall in Washington, or on William O. Bickel, who is stopping for a short time at the Varieties, in Opelousas, and get pictures of yourself or friends.  See their advertisements in another column.

The second advertisement appeared on March 27, 1858 in The Opelousas Courier (Opelousas, Louisiana).  Portraits, Ambrotypes, Melainotypes & Photographs.  The Photographic Artist, Wm. P. Bickel, has arrived in Opelousas, where he will remain a short time, for the purpose of supplying the citizens of this vicinity, with his celebrated New Style of Pictures.

Those who want likenesses by this process, should call soon and examine those beautiful emblems of nature, which are Superior to any ever before taken in this place, my method and style of drawing them being the latest out, and, as to coloring they are not surpassed by any in the United States.

Gentle reader have you not a friend for whom you fond emotion cherish?  If so, procure the shadow ere the substance perish.

Gallery always free to visitors.  Children taken in clear weather.  Melainotypes taken on iron plates, and inserted in lockets and breast pins of any size.

Daguerreotypes, Paintings, Drawings, &c., copied.  Rooms at Opelousas varieties.                           

The third advertisement appeared on March 27, 1858 in The Opelousas Patriot (Opelousas, Louisiana).  Portraits, Ambrotypes, Melainotypes and Phototypes.  Wm. P. Bickel, The Photographic artist, has arrived in Opelousas, at the “Varieties.” where he will remain a short time, for the purpose of supplying the citizens of this vicinity, with his celebrated new style of Pictures.

Those who want likenesses by this process, should call soon and examine those beautiful emblems of nature, which are superior to any ever before taken in this place, my method and style of drawing them being the latest out, and, as to coloring they are not surpassed by any in the United States.

Gentle reader have you not a friend for whom you fond emotion cherish?  If so, procure the shadow ere the substance perish.

Gallery always free to visitors.  Children taken in clear weather.  Melainotypes taken on iron plates, and inserted in lockets and breast pins of any size.

Daguerreotypes, Paintings, Drawings, &c., copied.  Rooms at Opelousas varieties.   

William P. Bickel is not recorded in other photographic directories.

Bell

Photographs, Stereoviews, , ,

1858                Address Unknown, Ogdensburgh, New York.

Bell was recorded in one announcement that appeared on September 21, 1858 in The Daily Journal (Ogdensburgh, New York).  New Style.—The Bell’s have just introduced in this place a new arrangement of pictures and a new way of looking at them.  The pictures are photographs duplicated, placed in an arrangement not unlike an opera glass, which is divided by a partition so that each eye takes in a picture and reduces the duplicates to a single view.  The effect is magical and produces a perfectness impossible to imagine. 

Their store was crowded last evening by curious and anxious spectators.

Bell is not listed in other photographic directories.

George Washington Barr

Daguerreotypes, Photographs, Stereoviews, , , ,

1850-1855       Second & Walnut Streets, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.[1]

Third Annual Report Of The Transactions Of The Pennsylvania State Agricultural Society For The Year 1855.  (Fair held on September 25-28, 1855).[2]  Premiums Awarded…No. 35—Miscellaneous Articles And Fine Arts.

To Washington Barr, of Harrisburg, for a collection of daguerreotypes, photographs and stereoscope,……………………………….Silver Medal.

To. A. C. Smith, of Harrisburg, for a case of daguerreotypes and two frames of Daguerreotypes, ……………………………………………..Diploma.

To W. Barr, of Harrisburg, for a large collection of daguerreotype cases,……Diploma.

George Washington Barr is recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry as Barr, W. (D. W.) and he goes on to identify him as Dr. W. Barr active in Harrisburg, Pa. from 1850-1852.  Directory of Pennsylvania Photographers 1839-1900 by Ries & Ruby list Barr, George Washington active in Harrisburg from 1850-1855.

[1] Full name, activity dates and address from Directory of Pennsylvania Photographers 1839-1900 by Ries & Ruby.

[2] Information from Information from Richard Jeffries.

William Anthony

Photographs, ,

1859                East of Court Square, Fayetteville, Arkansas.

William Anthony was recorded in one advertisement that ran from June 18 to September 2, 1859 in The Arkansian (Fayetteville, Arkansas.)  Watches:–And:—Jewelry.  At Greatly Reduced Prices at Anthony’s:  East of Court Square—Fayetteville, Arks.  I am on hand this season, and intend to remain: having purchased a large and well assorted stock of Watches, Clocks and Jewelry, which are offered to the public, at lower prices than ever before offered in this market.  I would call your particular attention to the American Watch which is the safest and most reliable Time Piece now made; and I have made arrangements at the east, to keep a full supply on hand, in Gold and Silver cases.  They are warranted for ten years to keep correct time!  Also, the English and Swiss Leavers, Lepine, and Duplex Watches, at very low rates.

If You want a Good Clock!  Give Anthony a call, and get one of Seth Thomas’ make.  They never get out of order, and are warranted for eighteen months at From Eight to Ten Dollars!

Jewelry of all descriptions, always on hand, and made to order.  Watches, Clocks and Jewelry, cleaned and repaired on short notice and reasonable terms, and warranted to give general satisfaction to everybody.

Old Gold And Silver always received in exchanged for new articles.

Pictures!  Pictures!!  I am also well prepared to take Pictures in all their various styles; having a good sky light, which is better than side light, and will spare no pains to give ample satisfaction to all who favor me with a call.  Good pictures taken with care For Twenty-Five Cents! 

Please call and examine specimens.  Wm. Anthony.

William Anthony is recorded in Pioneer Photographers From The Mississippi To The Continental Divide A Biographical Dictionary, 1839-1865.  The information in the entry is from a secondary source which only excerpted parts of the original advertisement above.

Jonathan Allen

Ambrotypes, Daguerreotypes, Photographs, , , , , ,

1856-1859       Main Street, Foot of Canal Street, Webster’s Building, Fort Plain, New York.

1857                Main Street, Canajoharie, New York.

1859                Address Unknown, Minden, New York[1]

Jonathan Allen was recorded in eight advertisements in the Mohawk Valley Register (Fort Plain, New York).  The first advertisement ran from March 6, 1856 to January 29, 1857.  Attention The Lost Found—the Secret Out!  “There is nothing hidden but that shall be revealed.  J. Allen would announce to the public that he is now prepared to take Daguerreotypes, Ambrotypes & Chromotypes.  The latter being a new style of Picture just brought to perfection.  They are taken on glass and no colored as to resemble oil paintings on ivory.  They will not fade, corrode at sea or change in any climate, are beautiful in tone, bold and clear in effect, and can be seen in any light as can also the Ambrotypes which he now takes in the latest improved style.  The public are invited to call at his rooms and examine specimens and judge for themselves.

Rooms foot of Canal street, in Webster’s Building.

The second advertisement ran from January 1, 1857 to April 8, 1858.  Fort Plain Business Cards.  J. Allen, Ambrotypist, and manufacturer of Guilt Frames, Main, Foot of Canal St.

The third advertisement ran from January 29 to April 23, 1857.  The Shadow. The Shadow. The Shadow. The Shadow. The Shadow. The Shadow.  Allen’s Pictures.  Allen’s Pictures. Allen’s Pictures.  Allen’s Pictures.  Allen’s Pictures.  Allen’s Pictures.  Allen’s Pictures.  Premium  Premium  Premium  Premium  Premium  Premium   Premium  Premium  Premium  Premium

At the last Montgomery County Fair, held at Canajoharie in September 1856, the Committee on Ambrotypes awarded to J. Allen The first Premium for his pictures—being superior in tone and life-like expression to all others on exhibition; and all those who have had pictures of him coined with the verdict of the Awarding Committee.

Mr. Allen, (in connection with H. Wendell of Amsterdam) has secured the Exclusive Right of Mont. County, Patent Patent Patent Patent for the manufacture of Cutting’s Patent Ambrotypes, which patent consists in the method of securing them from the action of the atmosphere, and rendering them durable by sealing the picture between two plate glass with a substance which soon hardens and becomes impervious to air, dust and water.

Beware Of Worthless Imitations!      

Beware Of Worthless Imitations!      

Beware Of Worthless Imitations!

Beware Of Worthless Imitations!

All Ambrotypes taken by any other method than Cutting’s patent are worthless imitations.  Some unskilled artists endeavor to evade the patent by palming the public pictures taken upon single glass and coating it with varnish which has a bad effect upon the chemicals and cause the picture to lose its luster in a short time.

Remember, Remember, Remember That the patent Premium Ambrotype may be had only of Allen, who has the exclusive right of the western portion of the County of Montgomery.

Pictures taken by Cutting’s Patent process possess the rare quality of imperishability—remaining unchanged for ages.  These pictures are pronounced to be the Greatest Improvement we have received in the Photographic Art since the days of Daguerre, having a clearness and relief that is truly astonishing.

Mr. Allen’s facilities for giving the public pictures of any size, are not surpassed in this section.  His stock of Cases and Frames comprise all the varieties—plain and fancy—to be found in market.

Our friends from the country, in visiting the village, are respectfully invited to give us a neighborly call in order to Examine our Specimens.  Examine our Specimens.  Examine our Specimens.  Memento.  Memento.  Memento.  Memento.  Memento.  Memento.  Memento.  Memento  We guarantee that no one, unless so desolate and discarded that he has not a solitary friend on earth, will be willing to depart without taking another self with him as a memento to present to some cherished one.

A first class likeness will be admired and treasured up long after almost every other kind of present is destroyed or forgotten—in fact growing more and more precious as each succeeding year rolls around, and with each anniversary recalling to memory the exact features of those we love.

Gilt Frames, Gilt Frames, Gilt Frames. 

A large stock of Gilt Mouldings, of various styles will constantly be kept on hand, and Frames of any size made to order, on short notice, and for reasonable prices.

Allen’s Rooms may be found in Webster’s Building, on Main St., foot of Canal St., Fort Plain, and on Main St., at the sign of the Red, White and Blue,” Canajoharie.

The fourth advertisement ran from May 9 to November 5, 1857.  1857.  Look Ye Here All Lovers Of Fine Pictures!  Seven different towns, fair cities of the earth, Strive for the fame of mighty Homer’s birth; But none the hard contested claim can prove; Two native place of Homer is above!  Before thy friends do vanish from thy sight, and go where Homer is, in realms of light, Secure their picture, as a treasure-prize, With budding lips and bright life-like eyes. 

Allen’s Premium Pictures Melainotypes and Ambrotypes!!  J. Allen would inform his patrons and the public generally that being determined to keep up with “Young America,” and not to be outdone, even in the large cities, he has secured the right, and is now prepared to make another New Style Of Picture, called Melainotype, which is a most beautiful specimen of the sun’s penciling.

The more delicate lineaments of the image are portrayed with a faithfulness surpassing that of the most brilliant Daguerreotype; the glowing tints of nature are blended in sublime harmony; all is here presented with the warmest penciling of Nature.  She has proven herself the Model Artist and gathered charm from all of her own creation, blending, by a single effort, in bold relief.

Beauties that no hand can equal portraying each feature with such exactness, as to seemingly create substance from shadow.  No true lover of nature will contemplate these specimens without feeling a lively admiration of the warm-toned and brilliant life-like effect they produced.  A continued look upon the wonders of art will fill the beholder with sublime enthusiasm, and bring the thought to his mind, “can Nature create such perfect self, and refuse a soul to feel and a tongue to speak?”

The subscriber has constantly on hand a Full assortment of Cases both Plain and Fancy, and all styles of Gilt Frames, all of which will be sold at reasonable prices, and filled with superior Melainotypes or Ambrotypes.

Gilt Frames.  A good assortment of moldings both Gilt and Plain constantly on hand, so that frames of all sizes and styles can be had on short notice.

Also a fine assortment of Lithographs & Steel Plates For Grecian Oil Painting. 

All Work Warranted.

Rooms open from 8 o’clock, A. M., to 6, P. M., and may be found in Webster’s Building, on Main St., foot of Canal St., Fort Plain.  J. Allen.  Fort Plain, May 1, 1857.

The fifth advertisement ran from November 12, 1857 to March 11, 1858.  A P P G stands For Allen’s Premium Picture Gallery.  Owing to the high price of money, J. Allen has reduced the price for Pictures and invites the attention of the public anew to his unequalled facilities for taking Pictures in the most tasty, artistical and complete style of the Photographic art.—His reception and dressing rooms will always be found Comfortable and Pleasant in all kinds of weather; his operating room is spacious and furnished with superior Sky and Side Lights, and all the requisite materials for that department; and his chemical room contains the choicest Foreign and American Chemicals, Glass, &c.

The patented Ambrotypes are considered the best picture extant.  They will last for ages unchanged, and possess the rare quality of imperishability. Being taken on plate glass, which is placed on a corresponding glass, the two being hermetically sealed together with an indestructible cement, which soon hardens and the two glasses become in effect one, with the picture in the center, as durable as glass itself.  The patent Ambrotype is particularly adapted to any kind of face and complexion, and has a clearness and relief that is truly astonishing.

Those desiring Perfect and Lasting Likenesses of themselves or friends, would do well to call and avail themselves of An Experienced Artist with a laboratory of pure chemicals, piles of superior stock, good lights, and best invented instruments. 

His rooms will be open at all business hours of the day.

Copies of Paintings, Portraits, Miniatures &c., executed in an unrivalled manner.

He has constantly on hand a Full assortment of Cases, both Plain and Fancy, and all styles of Gilt Frames, all of which will be sold at reasonable prices, and filled with superior Melainotypes or Ambrotypes.

Gilt Frames.  A good assortment of moldings both Gilt and Plain constantly on hand, so that frames of all sizes and styles can be had on short notice.

Also a fine assortment of Lithographs & Steel Plates For Grecian Oil Painting. 

All Work Warranted. 

His Rooms may be found in Webster’s Building, on Main St., foot of Canal St., Fort Plain. J. Allen.  Fort Plain, November 1, 1857.

The sixth advertisement ran from April 15, 1858 to April 21, 1859.  Fort Plain Business Cards.  J. Allen, Daguerreian Artists.—Likenesses Of the most approved style taken and warranted to give satisfaction.  Gilt Frames of all styles and sizes made to order.  Rooms in the Webster Building, Main-St.

The advertisement ran from August 19 to November 11, 1858.  New Attractions At J. Allen’s Picture Gallery.  The subscriber has recently procured the necessary Apparatus and Chemicals for taking Superior Photographs, which are without doubt the best pictures made.  Being taken on paper they bear a great resemblance to steel engravings, as they are deep-toned, clear and bold and can be view in any light, unlike pictures of other descriptions.  They are Warranted not to fade or change!  In other places where they have been introduced the changes for making this style of picture have been more than for Ambrotypes, but in order to introduce them the subscriber will furnish them at the same Prices As For Ambrotypes, of the same size, and should a person want a number of duplicates he will furnish them At A Much Lower Figure.  But one setting is required for any number of pictures that may be desired.

A cordial invitation is extended to all to call at his office and examine specimens.

Superior Ambrotypes are still taken, at prices varying from 60 cts. to $8.

A long experience in this business renders him capable of giving good satisfaction.

Ambrotypes put in Rings, Lockets, &c., and warranted.

Pictures taken of Invalids and Deceased Persons at their residence, on short notice.

Gilt, Rosewood, & Plain Frames of all sizes and styles, and fitted out with Glass, Cord and Tassels, manufactured on short notice, Lithographs and Steel Plate Engravings in great variety, for ornament or for Grecian Oil Painting constantly on hand, and for sale at reasonable prices.

Caution.—If you would secure Pictures the most durable and perfect, you should avoid patronizing persons of little experience, and Rooms where economy in space and light is certain to render the picture blunt in shade and harsh in tone.—Mr. Allen’s Rooms are ample, his light so arranged as to blend the picture in the most harmonious manner, and his long experience a sure guaranty of artistic excellence.        

Satisfaction Given In All Cases.  Call and examine the numerous specimens at his Rooms. J. Allen.  Fort Plain, August 19, 1858.

The eighth advertisement ran from June 23 to December 29, 1859.  Fort Plain Business Cards.  J. Allen, Photograph & Ambrotype Rooms, in the Webster Building, over Lipe’s Crockery Store.

Gilt and Rosewood Picture Frames of all sizes and styles manufactured to order.

Jonathan Allen is recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry as being active in Fort Plain and Minden, New York in 1859 without business addresses.

[1] Craig’s Daguerreian Registry.

John L. Alcooke

Ambrotypes, Niellographs, Photographs, , , , ,

1857-1858       483 Broadway, New York, New York.

John L. Alcooke of the firm Grant & Alcooke (A. G. Grant & John L. Alcooke) were recorded in in an advertisement the New York City Directory and twelve advertisements in The New York Herald (New York, New York).  The advertisement appeared in the 1857-1858 New York City Directory.  Grant & Alcooke’s Improved Skylight Gallery, Photographic and Ambrotype Emporium, On the First Floor, No. 483 Broadway, Adjoining Wallack’s Theatre, New York.

Colored or Plain, Single Or Double, Dense Or Transparent, done instantaneously, and without fail.  Daguerreotypes Renovated and Copied in every style, at the shortest possible notice, and at a moderate price.

The first advertisement appeared on May 7, 1857.  Grant & Alcooke’s First Class Ambrotypes and photographs, 483 Broadway, next door to Wallack’s theatre, first floor.

The second appeared on May 8, 1857.  Grant & Alcooke’s Improved Light, First floor, 483 Broadway.—Photographs colored or plain vitae portraits and ambrotypes, stereoscopic, [transparent] or plain.

The third advertisement ran on May 21 & 22, 1857.  Unequalled are the Ambrotypes and Photographs taken at Grant & Alcooke’s improved light, first floor, 483 Broadway, adjoining Wallack’s theatre.

The fourth appeared on September 9, 1857.  Ambrotypes, Photographs and Vitae Portraits at Grant & Alcooke’s, first floor, 483 Broadway, are all the rage.

The fifth appeared on December 2, 1857.  Ambrotypes and Photographs, Cheap and perfect, taken at Grant & Alcooke’s, 483 Broadway, adjoining Wallack’s theatre.

The sixth appeared on January 3 ,1858.  Ambrotypes, Pielleographs, sic. Melainotypes, photographs and oil portraits, taken at Grant & Alcooke’s gallery, 483 Broadway, every day, until their departure for Europe.

The seventh appeared on January 6, 1858.  Ambrotypes, Heillographs, sic. Photographs and oil portraits, taken at Grant & Alcooke’s gallery, 483 Broadway, daily until their departure for Europe.

The eighth appeared on January 7, 1858.  Ambrotypes, Niellographs, Photographs and oil portraits, taken at Grant & Alcooke’s, 483 Broadway, daily, until their departure for Europe.

The ninth appeared on February 19, 1858.  To Photographic Artists.—For Sale, after March 1st., Grant & Alcooke’s improved Gallery, first floor, 483 Broadway.

The tenth appeared on March 5, 1858.  To Photographers.—For Sale, the Beautiful gallery 483 Broadway, now doing a large business, as Messrs. Grant & Alcooke’s are about leaving for Europe.

The eleventh appeared on April 15, 1858.  Grant & Alcooke’s Ambrotypes and Photographs, Niellographs, to send in letters.  First floor, 483 Broadway.

The twelfth appeared on April 26, 1858.  Niellographs, Niellographs, Niellographs.  Ambrotypes and Photographs by Grant & Alcooke, 483 Broadway.  Last week in America.

John L. Alcooke is recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry without a business address.

Robert W. Addis

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

1851 Corner of Centre Square and North Queen Street, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.[1]

1853                Corner Light and Baltimore Streets, Baltimore, Maryland.[2]

1855                187 Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland.[3]

1855-1857       Gallery Next Door West of the City Hotel, Frederick, Maryland.

1858-1859       20½ East King Street, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.1

Robert W. Addis was recorded in six advertisements in the Maryland Union (Frederick, Maryland). The first advertisement appeared on December 27, 1855. Ambrotypes, Photographs, Daguerreotypes, And Every Style Of Picture Known Can Now Be Had At Addis’ Sky-Light Gallery Next Door West Of The City Hotel.

Having completed my instructions at the Gallery of the most Celebrated Photographist and Ambrotypist in the United States, I am prepared top offer to the public every style of pictures known, at greatly reduced rates.

Ambrotypes, or Imperishable Pictures!  This beautiful style of Picture is taken on fine French Plate Glass, and warranted never to fade in any climate.  The advantages over the Daguerreotypes consist in their being unreversed, more brilliant and clear in tone and effects, and can be distinctly seen in any light, or in any position.  A call is only necessary to convince all.

Photographs.  Are taken on Paper, (especially prepared for the purposes,) and cannot be distinguished from a fine steel plate engraving, the likeness being as perfectas a Daguerreotype.  The great improvements in this branch of sun Drawing, by the most celebrated Chemists of this country and Europe, place it far in advance of all other styles.  Another advantage is, that the Picture being a part of the paper, can only be erased by destroying the paper.  These can be supplied by single impressions, or hundreds at an extraordinary low price.  Of Photographs, I have two processes:  Collodion for Portraits, and Albumen for Views, Buildings, Landscapes, Farms, with all buildings attached, &c.  A variety of specimens at the Gallery.

Persons, wishing copies of Buildings, will please remember this, as they are far superior to Daguerreotypes, they being unreversed and beautiful ornaments for a parlor. Great reduction in price of Gold Lockets, Gilt Frames and fancy cases, all of which I have the largest assortment in this city; and all who wish to make a Beautiful and Appropriate Christmas Present, in the way of Lockets, Pearl Cases, Oval and square Ebony, Velvet, or Papier Mache, would do well to call at the City Gallery, where they can be supplied, 50 per ct. cheaper, with Ambrotypes or better Daguerreotypes than at any Gallery in this city.  I am determined to sell my Fancy Stock, cheaper than the cheapest Galleries.

The Daguerrean Apartment will be under the immediate control of D. T. Coweel, [sic.] Esq., late principal Operator at Whitehurst’s Gallery, Baltimore, whose services I have secured and whose reputation as an artist is unsurpassed in the country, as those, who had Pictures taken during my absence, will corroborate.

N. B.—Persons wishing to learn Ambrotyping and Photographing, will do well to call on me as I warrant full instructions for less money than I paid, and of my work they can judge for themselves; facilities for acquiring a perfect knowledge of the business, and can be supplied with material at the cost price without going to the larger cities.  Frederick, Dec. 22, 1855.  R. W. Addis.

The second advertisement ran from August 21 to December 25, 1856. Remember That next door West of the City Hotel, is Addis’ Northern Sky-Light Gallery, Where Ambrotypes, Daguerreotypes, and Photographs, are taken in the highest perfection of the Art.  Especial attention is called to Ambrotypes, his new and popular process is fast superceding the old style Daguerreotypes, not in their being more durable but for beauty of pictures, they can be seen in any light no matter what position in which they are held, thus doing away with that unpleasant glare which all Daguerreotypes must have and rendering the surface soft and pleasing. When family groups are required in frames, this process is indispensable, for the Likeness can be distinctly seen across a room as accurately as though ’twas in the hand—and for persons who wish pictures to last—one that in fifty years hence will bring vividly to mind a perfect likeness of departed friends or relatives.  This process stands unequalled, and in range of every one in any circumstances in point of price.  In corroboration of this, you have only to call and examine specimens.

Paper Pictures Or Photographs.  These beautiful and also indispensable pictures, are a fac simile of steel plate engravings and when a number are required, they are much cheaper than the lowest price Daguerreotype, thus if one person wants 25 copies, a perfect likeness can be made at 50 cts. apiece, the largest size.

Daguerreotypes, In every Style Of The Art. Crayon, Stereoscope, light and dark background.  The Daguerreotype taken [in] this establishment, for the last 18 months rank with the best productions in the country to perfection of likeness, fleshiness of tone, position, artistic and for brilliancy of finish.  Persons who wish copies of old daguerreotypes of departed friends and relatives can have them accurately taken in either of the above styles.  Pictures neatly set in Breastpins, Rings, Lockets, &c., a variety of Fancy Cases, and full assortment of Gold Lockets always on hand and cheap.

Study your own interest and call on Addis over J. Nussbaunt’s confectionary.

P. S.—Persons who wish to learn Daguerreotyping, Ambrotyping or Photographing, and get a perfect knowledge of all chemical apparatus, &c., would do well to call on Addis.   

The third advertisement ran from December 11, 1856 to February 5, 1857.  Christmas Presents.  Remember Addis’ Sky-Light Daguerrean Gallery Next door to the City Hall, Offers the greatest inducement in the way of suitable presents of any establishment in this city.  A large and fresh assortment of Fine Gold Lockets. Made to hold from 1 to 10 Daguerreotypes so that a whole family can be inserted in one locket; lockets purchased at this place are warranted and a large deduction made for the likeness, making the lockets filled with pictures cheaper by 40 per ct. than can be had elsewhere.

Fancy cases of every description both for Daguerreotypes and Ambrotypes.  Also a large lot of handsome Gilt Frames fresh from the manufactures, sold very little higher than cases.

Don’t forget if you wish anything in the Daguerreotype, Ambrotype or Photograph way to give Addis’ a call, where satisfaction is warranted at an extraordinary cheap rate. 

The fourth advertisement ran from January 22 to March 12, 1857.  Cheap:  Cheaper:  Cheapest!  75 Cts.!  75 Cts.!  Ambrotypes, Melainotypes, Daguerreotypes & Photographs, At Addis’ Sky-Light Gallery:  (Next door to the City Hotel,) For 75 Cents!

Finely Colored, and put up in large size cases, and finely secured, and warranted as good if not better than any taken in this town for $2.

Ambrotypes & Melainotypes are precisely the same thing, bade by the same process and presenting the same appearance,—the only difference is, that Ambrotypes are made on glass, and Melainotypes on iron, the latter process being preferable for many reasons, It being impossible to break them, also being more sensitive to color, for beauty of which they far surpassnthe Daguerreotype.  They can plainly be seen in any light, can be cut to fit lockets, rings, breastpins, oval cases, or any style whatever.

In thus lowering the prices of my pictures, I merely act as my competitors did, when I first made my residence here, and I am now determined to be as cheap as any Gallery in Frederick, if not cheaper; and make as good Pictures as I ever made for double the price now asked for them; and would respectfully inform the many persons who have called at my room for low-priced Daguerreotypes, and been refused and sent elsewhere, to call again, and in place of Daguerreotypes I will give them Ambrotypes or Melainotypes, furnished in the most careful and durable manner.  For &5 Cents!  A large assortment of Gold Lockets, Gilt Frames, and Fancy Cases, of every style, sold for nearly one half the regular price; in fact, a general reduction of everything.

Notice to Students.  All who wish to learn Ambrotyping, Melainotyping, Daguerreotyping or Photographing, can do so at my rooms for $20, and satisfaction guaranteed. An outfit, including instructions, camera and all materials, furnished for $64, and everything prepared so as to open a room one day after getting instructions.  ja.9.   

The fifth advertisement ran from February 12 to April 9, 1857.  Daguerreotypes, Ambrotypes, Melainotypes and Photographs, at Addis’ unequalled Sky-Light Gallery, for the sum of 75 cents.

The sixth advertisement ran from April 2 to 9, 1857.  Don’t Forget Addis’ Gallery, where you can get a Splendid Melainotype, done up in a fine case, and beautifully colored, for 75 Cents, warranted to give satisfaction.

Robert W. Addis is recorded in other directories but not in Frederick, Maryland.

[1] Craig’s Daguerreian Registry.

[2] Craig’s Daguerreian Registry. Craig used the1853-1854 Baltimore City Directory which was published in 1853, there is no corroborating information that he was still active at that address in 1854.

[3] Directory Of Maryland Photographers 1839-1900.  1855-1856 Baltimore City Directory which was published in 1855, there is no corroborating information that he was still active at that address in 1856.