American Catskills: Blog

Rip Van Winkle's Dream

Sat, 30 Sep 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Rip Van Winkle’s Dream was published in 1883 in dedication to the Michigan Central Railroad – The Niagara Falls Route. The book contains over 30 beautiful, full-page illustrations, many of them featuring the beloved Rip Van Winkle. Wemple & Co., of New York, worked on the book as lithographers.

The first seven pages of the book, unrelated to the main story of Rip Van Winkle, includes “A Parody on Iolanthe,” written by Davison Dalziel, which is an alternative take on the Gilbert and Sullivan comic opera Iolanthe, but is instead dedicated to the conductors of the Chicago & Alton Railway. The last 22 pages of the book contain advertisements for a variety of businesses around Chicago, including, as just a few examples, the Ansonia Clock Company, the Crescent Steel Works, the Leland Hotel and the Haverly Theatre.

Rip Van Winkle’s Dream was published by Davison Dalziel (1852-1928), of Chicago. Dalziel was born and raised in London, England, and after being “granted the privileges of a superior education” he entered the journalism industry. He was engaged in newspaper work in Sydney, Australia in the late 1870s. He afterwards went to San Francisco, where he established the San Francisco Daily Mail. He then relocated to Chicago, where he remained prominent in the newspaper industry and served as the editor of the Chicago News Letter, “the leading dramatic newspaper in America.” He then returned to London, where he formed Dalziel’s News Agency and became an influential businessman in the transportation industry. He served as president of the Pullman Car Company and the International Sleeping Car Company. He was elected to serve as a Member of Parliament for Brixton from 1910 to 1923 and again from 1924 to 1927. Dalziel passed away in 1928 after a short illness.

The lengthy advertisement for the Michigan Central Railroad at the back of Rip Van Winkle’s Dream provides an overview of the company and the Niagara Falls Route.

“Michigan Central. The Great Highway of East and West Travel.

The Michigan Central has become the deservedly favorite route between the great cities and Summer resorts of the East and West, being the only route under a single management between Chicago, Niagara Falls and Buffalo, and offering to the traveling public the many great advantages resulting from that fact. Whether one travels East or travels West, he finds that the Michigan Central has spared no pains nor expense to make his journey as rapid, safe, comfortable and pleasant as possible. He finds not one only, but many, daily Fast Express trains, made up new and sumptuous Parlor, Dining and Sleeping Coaches, replete with every convenience that money can provide and ingenuity devise. These trains are veritable first-class hotels upon wheels, in which the passenger can eat, drink, smoke, sleep, lounge and take comfort as in his own inn. And the traveler is sure of quick time and close connection at junction points.

The title of “The Niagara Falls Route” belongs peculiarly and especially to the Michigan Central, for it is the only route running trains directly to the Great Cataract itself. Its trains halt at Falls View Station, almost at the very brink of the down-pouring flood, where the views is finer than is obtainable from any other point. From this point, the trains follow the course of the river to the great Cantilever Bridge, which is a marvelous triumph of engineering science. It is constructed of steel, with a double track, and stood the severest test upon its completion. It is the first bridge ever built upon its particular principle, and is probably the safest, as it is one of the most elegant, in the world. Crossing this grand structure, two hundred and fifty feet above “the angriest bit of water in the world,” the traveler sees again the great Falls, the dark river gorge, and the rushing Whirlpool Rapids.

The route to Buffalo follows the river bank for miles, affording varied and delightful pictures of the emerald flood, the foam-crested Rapids, the Falls, the leafy islands and peaceful Canada shore, while the thunders of the great Cataract sink with distance into a monotone, and are finally lost, save as their echoes long linger in memory.

Entering the beautiful city of Buffalo, the traveler finds the superb Palace Cars taken on without change to Albany and New York, by the New York Central and Hudson River, and from Albany to Boston by the Boston and Albany railroads. To the Michigan Central, and to no other road, all this applies, and therefore it is that the public have bestowed upon it the title of “The Niagara Falls Route.”

Excepting only the almost inaccessible Yellowstone Park, there is no spot combining so many of the glories, beauties and advantages of a tourists’ paradise as Mackinac Island. Rising grandly over 300 feet above the channel in which the waters of the earth’s greatest unsalted seas meet and blend in billowy harmony, it is nearly nine miles in circumference. The United States Government has, with a just appreciation of its wonderful attractions, reserved entire island for a National Park, and the Michigan Central has made it accessible to tourists.

O. W. Ruggles, Gen. Passenger and Ticket Agent, Chicago.

F. I. Whitney, Ass’t Gen. Pass. And Ticket Ag’t, Chicago.”

Rip Van Winkle, with Illustrations by Rhoda Campbell Chase

Sat, 23 Sep 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Rip Van Winkle by Washington Irving was published to international acclaim in 1819. Set in the Catskills, an amiable Rip wanders off in the woods with his dog Wolf to escape his wife’s nagging and to avert “all kinds of profitable labor” only to encounter a silent group of short, bearded men playing nine-pins. After drinking some of their liquor he falls asleep for twenty years. Upon waking, he returns to his village to learn that his wife has died, the American Revolution has occurred and that he must face the fact that many of his former friends have either died, moved on or simply do not recognize him. The short story is an American classic.

This miniature version of the Rip Van Winkle story, measuring only 2 3/16 inches by 2 3/4 inches, served as an advertising booklet for Packard Pianos. The 12-page booklet contains a short, summarized version of the Rip Van Winkle story along with six colorized illustrations. The advertisement for Packard Pianos, which noted that “you can’t get a better piano at any price,” can be found on the back page. The booklet was published in 1916 by John H. Eggers of New York.

Each of the six images in the Rip Van Winkle booklet were created by illustrator Rhoda Campbell Chase (1881-1959), whose work can be found in numerous school and children’s books. Rhoda was the daughter of Henry Seymour Chase (1853-1889), a well-known marine artist, and Laura Emeline Eames Chase (1856-1917), a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, a graduate of Iowa State University dental school and the first woman accepted as a full member of the American Dental Association.

Following in her father’s footsteps Rhoda would become a well-respected artist. She attended the St. Louis School of Fine Arts, lived in Paris while working with Theophile Steinlen as a mentor and studied at the Art Students’ League in New York City.

Beginning in 1917 Chase illustrated a new line of products issued by Harper & Brothers called the Bubble Book, an innovative product which combined books with records. The Bubble Book series, marketed with a slogan of “books that sing,” were aimed at children who could learn to read while singing along to the records at the same time. The record/book combination proved immensely popular, with millions sold every year after its initial release. For more information on the history of the Bubble Book series, see Jacob Smith’s book titled Spoken Word: Postwar American Phonograph Cultures.

For approximately 45 years, from the mid-1910s to her passing in 1959, Rhoda lived in the art-friendly village of Woodstock, New York in the Catskill Mountains, near the setting for the Rip Van Winkle story. She was an active member of the Christian Science Church in Woodstock. Rhoda died on August 1, 1959 at Kingston Hospital in Kingston, New York and was survived by her brother Irwin Chase, of Deep River, Connecticut; a nephew, Rear Admiral Irwin Chase Jr., USN, Ret., of Deep River; and a niece, Mrs. Roger C. Cunningham of Ann Arbor, Michigan. Rhoda Campbell Chase is buried at Bellefontaine Cemetery in St. Louis, Missouri.

Other books illustrated by Rhoda Campbell Chase include:

Hansel and Gretel (1914)

The Merrill Readers: Third Reader (1915)

The Merrill Readers: Fourth Reader (1915)

Wonderdays and Wonderways Through Flowerland (1916)

Rip Van Winkle (1916)

Aladdin (1916)

Puss in Boots (1916)

The Bubble Book (1917)

The Sandman’s Hour: Stories for Bedtime (1917)

The Child’s World: First Reader (1917)

The Child’s World: Second Reader (1917)

The Story of Little Angels (1917)

Sandman Christmas Stories (1918)

Sandman Twilight Stories (1918)

Second Bubble Book (1918)

Third Bubble Book (1918)

The Animal Bubble Book (1918)

The Pie Party: Fifth Bubble Book (1919)

The Pet Bubble Book (1919)

The Funny Froggy: The Seventh Bubble Book (1919)

Happy Go Lucky: Bubble Book (1919)

The Merry Midgets: The Ninth Bubble Book

The Fairy Detective (1919)

The Little Mischief: Tenth Bubble Book (1920)

The Tippy Toe Bubble: 11th Book (1920)

Sandman’s Rainy Day Stories (1920)

Sandman’s Goodnight Stories (1921)

Sandman’s Might-Be-So Stories (1922)

Dot and Don with Mother (1923)

Dot and Don at School (1924)

Visiting Days with Dot and Don (1924)

Dot and Don: The Thoughtful Twins

The Christmas Reindeer (1926)

For the Children’s Hour (1927)

Busy Days with Bobby and Betty (1928)

The Doings of Bobby and Betty (1928)

Good Times for Bobby and Betty (1928)

The Peter-Pan Twins Are Glad to Help (1928)

The Peter-Pan Twins Are Now in School (1928)

Playtime for the Peter-Pan Twins (1928)

Play Fellows (1928)

Friends to Make (1928)

Happy Hour Readers: Good Friends (1935)

And Then We Came Home (1943)

Bob and Betty’s Busy Days (1943)

Bob and Betty’s Play Days (1943)

A Child’s Book of Verse (1943)

Rip Van Winkle

In a little village in the Catskill mountains near the Hudson river there lived many years ago a simple, good-natured fellow named Rip Van Winkle. He was lazy and would not work, but roamed the woods with his dog and gun, hunting and fishing.

All the village children loved him because of his kind heart and simple ways, and would follow him about while he played their games and told them stories.

While he thus idled away time, his farm was neglected, weeds overran his garden, his fences fell down for want of repair and his wife and children were in rags.

Rip’s wife would scold him for his idleness and shiftless ways, and in order to have peace he would take his dog Wolf and to the village inn, where he would sit on a bench in the sun and gossip with his neighbors, and escape his wife’s sharp tongue.

One day, after a harder scolding than usual, Rip took his dog and gun and set off for the mountains, hoping to bring home a squirrel of two to put his wife in good humor again. As he left, he could hear her voice calling after him that he was an idle good-for-nothing, and had better keep out of her sight, and he felt glad to escape the sound of her voice.

He tramped all day and shot many a squirrel and when he grew tired he lay down to rest on the soft grass under the shade of a tree.

Suddenly he heard his name called. He sat up, and looked about him, but he saw no one. Again he heard it – “Rip van Winkle – Rip van Winkle” – several times.

Wolf growled and came close to his master.

Looking again, Rip saw far down in the glen, slowly toiling up among the rocks, a strange little figure. He had a long beard and was dressed in old Dutch style, with a high peaked hat, and on his back he carried a keg of liquor. When he saw Rip he beckoned without speaking, and Rip saw that he was asking for help with his load.

Rip was always willing to help anyone, so he shouldered the keg and took turns with the dwarf in carrying it along the rocky path. Neither spoke a word, and the only sound was from the distant thunder that echoed among the mountains.

At last they reached the top. Rip and his guide entered a small hollow, and there Rip saw a company of strange little men. All wore the peaked hats, and had long beards and great baggy trousers. They were playing nine-pins, but stopped to gaze at Rip.

No one spoke or smiled, but one, who seemed to be the leader and wore red stockings and pointed red shoes, ran to Rip and took the keg. Then they offered it to him, and after taking a drink he grew bolder, and finding it good he took another and another.

Soon he began to feel very drowsy, he eyes closed and he fell into a deep sleep.

When Rip awoke, the sun was shining. He rubbed his eyes and said, “I must have slept here all night.” Slowly the memory of the dwarfs and the wine came back to him, and he cried out, “Oh, that wicked wine! What will my wife say?”

He looked for his gun but saw only an old rusty one, falling apart with age. He thought the little men had stolen his. He whistled for Wolf, who did not come; then he tried to walk, but found he was stiff and sore. He made his way down the mountain with great difficulty, expecting to meet his dog as he went.

He felt very hungry and weak, and dreaded to meet his wife, but felt that he must go on or starve in the mountains.

When he reached the village, he saw many people, but none whom he knew. All stared at him, and the children were strange. Looking down, he saw that his beard had grown long and white, and his clothes were ragged. He made his way to his own house and found it in ruins.

Much distressed, he wandered on, asking those he met about his old friends, but all were dead.

In the crowd that gathered about him there was a young woman carrying a child. Rip finally turned to her and asked her name. Her face and voice were familiar and he learned that she was his own daughter, grown up and married. From her he learned that he had disappeared and had been given up for dead twenty years ago! His wife had died soon after his disappearance.

The daughter welcomed her father with joy, and took him to her home to liver with her husband and children. There he spent his old age in contentment, and never again visited Hendrik Hudson and his band, who played nine-pins in the mountains.

David J. Auchmoody – Kingston, New York Photographer (Part 2)

Sat, 16 Sep 2023 12:00:00 GMT

David J. Auchmoody was a much-respected photographer located at the city of Kingston in Ulster County, New York from 1868 to circa 1893. He photographed thousands of Kingston’s citizens over the course of his 25 years in business. Auchmoody also published a popular series of stereoviews that included scenes of Kingston, Rondout, Rosendale, Rifton, Lawrenceville, Saugerties, Shandaken, Shokan and the surrounding Catskills region. After leaving the photography business Auchmoody worked in the insurance industry and for several fraternal organizations.

Continued from September 9, 2023.

Creek Cement Works, from Sleightsburgh Creek Cement Works, from Sleightsburgh.

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In 1884, as Auchmoody became more involved with various fraternal organizations, he founded the Fraternal Indicator. The publication was described as “a monthly journal devoted to the interest of Fraternal Societies. Official Organ of the Supreme Lodge, Knights of Columbia. An attractive journal, with a large circulation.” Auchmoody served as both editor and publisher. The publication was typically four pages long, sized 16x23. Annual subscription was 25 cents. Annual circulation was 2,000.

Reviews about the newly created Fraternal Indicator were quite positive. On January 19, 1884 the Kingston Daily Freeman wrote that “The ‘Knights of Columbia Indicator’ is the name of a new paper printed at the Freeman job printing establishment, by the Committee of Supplies of the Knights. It has four pages and is neatly printed on tinted paper, and is in every way creditable to its editors. The first number contains an excellent photograph of D. J. Auchmoody, the well known photographer, who was the first Supreme Governor of the Knights of Columbia. It will be published monthly, and its subscription price is only 25 cents a year.”

In another positive review, on August 8, 1884 the Kingston Daily Freeman wrote that “we have received the first number of a new monthly publication styled the Fraternal Indicator, the editor and publisher of which is D. J. Auchmoody of this city. It is an interesting four page paper, and besides what it contains in reference to mutual benefit and secret societies has a good selection of miscellaneous matter, and is ably edited. We bespeak for it a good reception among all interested in society matters.”

Throughout approximately 25 years as a photographer, Auchmoody’s gallery was located at several different locations. He was at first located at the corner of Garden and Ferry streets. He then worked at 29 Union Avenue, and was then listed at both 18 and 20 Union Avenue.

Luther, David’s son, seems to have assisted his father at the photographic gallery in the early years of his career, before becoming an automobile salesman. In 1890 L. M. Auchmoody, who would have been 19 years old at the time, submitted pictures of the family studio to Wilson’s Photograph Magazine, and those pictures were positively reviewed.

“Mr. L. M. Auchmoody, of Rondout, N.Y., sends a series of pictures which would be very interesting to any of our younger aspirants. They are of his studio, printing room, and reception rooms, showing their fitting an arrangement. As interiors they are excellent, not only pictorially, but also in the extreme order and regularity of appointments, and the cheerfulness of their aspect. Enlivened with plants and pictures, Mr. Auchmoody’s place seems a charming one to be in, suggesting good work; and even the printing room is not the well-lit den of rubbish and horror that it sometimes unhappily becomes, but contains a whole gallery of prints and pictures smiling from its sunny walls.”[1]

Auchmoody left the photography business around 1893 or 1894, according to the annual business directories for the city of Kingston. After leaving the photography business Auchmoody began to work in the insurance industry and became quite involved with a number of fraternal societies.

“He [Auchmoody] was a past grand chancellor of the grand lodge of Knights of Pythias of New York state and past state councilor of the United Order of Mechanics. He also served for many years as state deputy of the Knights of Pythias. He was a member of Hope Lodge, No. 65, Knights of Pythias, of Port Ewen, and Ulster County Council, United Order of American Mechanics, the Order of the Golden Seal and the Knights of Honor.”[2]

Auchmoody was a founding member of the Knights of Honor, lodge 791, at the city of Kingston. The lodge was formed on November 7, 1877. In 1880 Auchmoody was serving as “Reporter” for the lodge. The Knights of Honor organization was founded in 1873 in Louisville, Kentucky by James A. Demaree. The organization grew from its original 17 members to a membership of 120,000 by 1889, including 190 lodges in the state of New York.

The Knights of Pythias, in which Auchmoody served as state deputy and grand chancellor, was formed at Washington, D. C. in 1864 by Justus H. Rathbone (1839-1899), a federal government clerk. The organization began with 13 members, but grew rapidly, reaching a membership of 450,000 in 1895, and 1,000,000 in the early 1920s. Its cardinal principles include Friendship, Charity, and Benevolence, and their motto is “Be Generous, Brave, and True.” The rituals for the Knights of Pythias are based on the mythological friendship of Damon and Pythias. The Knights of Pythias were the first fraternal organization in the United States to receive a charter through an Act of Congress. The organization continues to operate today.

In addition to his work in the insurance industry and with various fraternal organizations, Auchmoody also served, for a time, as director and secretary of the S. R. Deyo Company. The company, which manufactured pure apple cider, was founded by Sylvester R. Deyo in 1886. The company had grown significantly over the years, producing 15,000 to 20,000 barrels of sweet cider and vinegar each season. “The business was one of the largest of its kind in this section of the country and annually filled large contracts, including many contracts with the United States Government.”[3]

The 1900 United States census listed 51-year-old Auchmoody as living in the city of Kingston, New York. He was living with his 48-year-old wife Elvina, who was shown as having been born in April 1852. They were married for 29 years. Auchmoody’s occupation was listed as “state deputy, K of P. [Knights of Pythias].”

D. J. Auchmoody published at least 320 different views of Kingston, Rondout, Saugerties, Shandaken and the surrounding Catskills region. Below is a summary of the 320 views, based on the imprints contained on the reverse side of some his stereoviews.

Road at Steep Rocks Road at Steep Rocks.

R.R. Depot at Rosendale, N.Y R. R. Depot at Rosendale, N.Y.

View of Lawrenceville Cement Works, from the hills, N.Y.

1-16. See above for Overlook Mountain House series.

17. Cement Quarry at Creek Locks.

18. Cement Quarry at Creek Locks.

19. Cement Quarry at Creek Locks.

20. Cement Quarry at Creek Locks.

21. Cement Quarry at Creek Locks.

22. Cement Quarry at Creek Locks.

23. Esopus Creek near Shandaken.

24. Deep Hollow in Shandaken.

25. Shandaken Centre.

26. Valley and Lost Clove Mountain near Shandaken depot.

27. Esopus Creek south of Phoenicia, looking south.

28. The Notch in Shandaken.

29. N. Y. K. & S. R. R. Track at Shandaken.

30. The Notch in Shandaken.

31. Shandaken Village.

32. Esopus Creek near Phoenicia.

33. Esopus Creek near Phoenicia.

34. The Notch in the Clove in Shandaken.

35. Bushkill Creek and Valley in Shandaken.

36. Bushkill Creek and Valley in Shandaken.

37. Lament’s Hotel, Shandaken, front view.

38. Lament’s Hotel, Shandaken, rear view.

39. Mountains near Bushnellville, Shandaken, looking south.

40. Rustic View near Shandaken.

41. Steep Rocks Road.

42. Steep Rocks.

43. Bank of the Hudson near Steep Rocks.

44. Bank of the Hudson near Steep Rocks.

45. Bank of the Hudson near Steep Rocks.

46. Lower Falls at Glenerie.

47. Upper Falls at Glenerie.

48. Upper and Lower Falls at Glenerie.

49. Glenerie.

50. Glenerie.

51. Glenerie White Lead Works.

52. Cement Works at Flatbush.

53. Cement Works at Flatbush.

54. On the Banks of the Hudson, horse in the foreground.

55. Group of Men and Animals.

56. Store at Flatbush.

57. Hudson River near Flatbush.

58. Private Residence at Malden.

59. Private Residence at Malden.

60. Private Residence at Malden.

61. Carriage House.

62. View at Malden.

63. Private Residence near Saugerties.

64. Private Residence near Saugerties.

65. Private Residence near Saugerties.

66. Flower Garden.

67. Flower Garden.

68. Saugerties.

69. Saugerties.

70. Esopus Lake near Saugerties.

71. Rustic View.

72. Rifton Falls on Wallkill.

73. Rifton Falls on Wallkill.

74. Rifton Falls on Wallkill.

75. Buttermilk Falls on Wallkill near Rifton.

76. Buttermilk Falls on Wallkill near Rifton.

77. Dashville Falls on the Wallkill.

78. Dashville Falls on the Wallkill.

79. Maple Grove, Shokan.

80. Maple Grove, Shokan.

81. Pic-Nic Party at Maple Grove, Shokan.

82. Pic-Nic Party at Maple Grove, Shokan.

83. Croquet Party.

84. Old Hurley Bridge.

85. Old Hurley Bridge.

86. Esopus Creek near Old Hurley.

87. Esopus Creek near Old Hurley. (2 views.)

88. Esopus Creek near Old Hurley. (2 views.)

89. Baptist Church, Kingston.

90. Interior of Dining Saloon, Kingston.

91. County Clerk’s Office, Kingston.

92. St. John’s Church, Kingston – Episcopal.

93. St. Joseph’s Church, Kingston – Catholic.

94. Corner Wall and North Front Streets, Kingston.

95. Wall Street, Kingston.

96. Wall Street, Kingston.

97. John Street, Kingston.

98. Fair Street, Kingston.

99. Main Street, Kingston.

100. Academy at Kingston.

101. First Reformed Church, Kingston.

102. Second Reformed Church, Kingston.

103. Savings Bank, Kingston.

104. Kingston Bank, Kingston.

105. State of New York Bank, Kingston.

106. Interior of St. John’s Church, Kingston.

107. Interior of Baptist Church, Kingston.

108. Interior of 2nd Reformed Church, Kingston.

109. Interior of 2nd Reformed Church, Kingston.

110. Interior of 1st Methodist Church, Kingston.

111. Interior of 1st Methodist Church, Kingston.

112. Moses’ Rock in Jacob’s Valley.

113. Fly Mountain near Eddyville.

114. Statuary (copy).

115. Lilly.

116. Road near Eddyville Bridge.

117. Road near Eddyville Bridge.

118. Bridge at Eddyville.

119. Mill Dam at Eddyville.

120. Looking up the Creek from Eddyville Bridge.

121. Looking up the Creek from Eddyville Bridge.

122. Looking down the Creek from Eddyville Bridge.

123. Rondout Creek near Wilbur.

124. Stone Yard at Wilbur.

125. Stone Yard at Wilbur.

126. Stone Yard at Wilbur.

127. Rondout Creek at Wilbur.

128. Wilbur Road and Rondout Creek.

129. Rondout Creek and South Rondout.

130. Rondout Creek and South Rondout.

131. View from the Road between Kingston and Wilbur.

132. Rustic View near Rondout.

133. Entrance to Cement Quarry near Rondout.

134. Entrance to Cement Quarry near Rondout.

135. School House in Rondout.

136. Bird’s Eye View of Rondout.

137. Kingston Point from Sleightburgh.

138. Rondout from Sleightburgh.

139. Rondout from Sleightburgh.

140. Rondout from Sleightburgh.

141. Rondout Creek and Coal Docks.

142. Interior of Washington Hall, decorated for a Festival.

143. Interior of Union Church at North Haven.

144. Interior of Union Church at North Haven.

145. Organ in Union Church at North Haven.

146. Private Residence at Sleightburgh.

147. North Haven from Sleightburgh Hill.

148. Kingston Point from Sleightburgh Hill.

149. Rondout from Sleightburgh Hill.

150. Rondout from Sleightburgh Hill.

151. Light House and River.

152. The Day Boat M. Martin leaving Rondout.

153. Coal Dock, Creek, South Rondout, Hussy’s Hill, & c.

154. Creek, Dry Docks, with Ferry Boat Lark, & c.

155. Corner of The Strand and Union Avenue, Rondout.

156. Fire Steamer Lindsley and Weber Hose Carriage.

157. Ferry Street, Rondout.

158. Private Residence on The Strand, Rondout.

159. Private Residence in North Rondout.

160. Cross Street, Rondout.

161. Schooner Juliette Terry.

162. Rondout and Sleightburgh Ferry.

163. Methodist Church at Port Ewen.

164. Reformed Church at Port Ewen.

165. Interior of Episcopal Church, Rondout.

166. The Strand, Rondout.

167. Private Residence on Union Avenue, Rondout.

168. Interior of St. Mary’s Church, Rondout.

169. Interior of St. Mary’s Church, Rondout, with group.

170. The Watch Dog.

171. The Watch Dog.

172. Dog Smoking.

173. Union Hotel Road and Canal, Rosendale.

174. Looking up the Creek from Rosendale toward Lawrenceville.

175. View of Rosendale Village from near W. V. R. R. Bridge.

176. The Bluff and West End of W. V. R. R. Bridge, Rosendale.

177. W. V. R. R. Bridge, looking down Canal, 150 feet high.

178. W. V. R. R. Bridge from near Depot, 876 feet long, 150 high.

179. W. V. R. R. Bridge from near Depot, 876 feet long, 150 high.

180. W. V. R. R. Bridge near end of Bridge, 876 feet long, 150 high.

181. Creek and distant view of W. V. R. R. Bridge, at Rosendale.

182. Canal and distant view of W. V. R. R. Bridge, at Rosendale.

183. W. V. R. R. Depot at Rosendale.

184. W. V. R. R. Track, looking south from Depot.

185. Rosendale Bridge looking up the Creek.

186. Rosendale from near Canal Bridge.

187. Rosendale from near Drug Store.

188. Lawrenceville Cement Works.

189. Lawrenceville Cement Works.

190. Lawrenceville Cement Works.

191. Canal, & c., at Lawrenceville.

192. Canal and Rocks in foreground at Lawrenceville.

193. Looking up the Creek from Lawrenceville.

194. Looking down the Creek from Lawrenceville.

195. High Falls, side view.

196. High Falls, front view.

197. High Falls, front view.

198. The Covered Bridge at High Falls.

199. The Aqueduct at High Falls, front view.

200. The Aqueduct at Hight Falls, side view.

201. Looking up the Creek from under Aqueduct at High Falls.

202. The Strand, Rondout.

203. Birdseye view of Rondout from east.

204. Birdseye view of Rondout and Creek.

205. Birdseye view of Rondout from Catholic Church.

206. Birdseye view of Rondout from Catholic Church.

207. Cement Quarry near Rondout.

208. Cement Quarry near Rondout.

209. Cement Quarry near Rondout.

210. Cement Quarry near Rondout.

211. Cement Quarry near Rondout.

212. Cement Quarry near Rondout.

213. Cement Quarry near Rondout.

214. Island in Copake Lake.

215. Falls at Philmont.

216. Bashabe Falls.

217. Centre Falls of Bashabe.

218. Copake Island and Lake.

219. Pond, & c., near Hudson.

220. Birdseye view of Hudson.

221. Birdseye vie of Rondout.

222. Skeleton Leaves arranged on Cross.

223. Skeleton Leaves arranged on Cross.

224. Skeleton Leaves arranged on Cross.

225. Basket of Shells and Flowers.

226. Basket of Shells and Flowers.

227. Wreath of Flowers.

228. Purity (medallion).

229. Rondout Creek, Hudson River, & c.

230. Rondout Creek, Hudson River, & c.

231. Mouth of Rondout Creek.

232. Ship Yard, Stone Yard, Hudson River, & c.

233. The Mocking Bird.

234. The Mocking Bird and Trainer.

235. The Beautiful Snow (taken April 29, 1874).

236. Pic-Nic Part at Ellsworth’s Grove, Port Ewen.

237. St. Mary’s Church, Rondout (Catholic).

238. Christian Brothers’ House, Rondout.

239. Priest’s House, Rondout.

240. View of an Arbor and Group.

241. St. Mary’s School House, Rondout.

242. St. Mary’s School House, Rondout.

243. Sisters’ House, Rondout.

244. Episcopal Church, Rondout.

245. Private Residence on Pierpont Street.

246. Private Residence on Pierpont Street.

247. Cement Quarry near Rondout.

248. Quarry Hill near Rondout.

249. Cement Works opposite Wilbur.

250. Skeleton Leaves on a Cross.

251. Skeleton Leaves in a Frame.

252. The Old Woman who lives in her shoe.

253. Fair and Festival in Presbyterian Chapel.

254. Fair and Festival in Presbyterian Chapel.

255. Fair and Festival in Presbyterian Chapel.

256. Home for Invalids (side view).

257. Home for Invalids (front view).

258. A cosy Retreat.

259. A cosy Retreat.

260. A House built about 1760 (side view).

261. A House built about 1760 (end view).

262. A farm scene in haying time.

263. A Dead Beet.

264. A Wreath of Flowers.

265. Corner of Union av. and Strand.

266. The Village Blacksmith.

267. Private Residence in Port Ewen.

268. Private Residence in Port Ewen.

269. A Wreath of Flowers.

270. Corner of Hone and Spring Street.

271. Mary Powell (model).

272. City Hall, Kingston, N.Y.

273. Crow, Blue Jay, & King Fisher.

274. Sparrow Hawk, & Parrott.

275. Crane and Rail.

276. Rock Eagle & Gray Squirrel.

277. Quack & Rail.

278. Crane, Quack, & Rail.

279. Sparrow Hawk, Owl & Muskrat.

280. Guinea Pigs, Squirrel & white breasted bird.

281. Coatmundi and Muskrat.

282. The Pelican.

283. Catamount and Sea Gull.

284. Catamount and Racoon.

285. Sea Gull and Owl.

286. The Fox.

287. Taxidermist with Birds and Animals.

288. Robin, Canary, Blue Jay & c.

289. Corner Bowery and Furnace Street.

290. Interior of 2nd M. E. Church, Kingston.

291. Port Ewen, (Street near M. E. Church).

292. Anthracite Fuel works from the River.

293. Anthracite Fuel works from the Shore.

294. Hudson River Light House Ferry Boat & c.

295. Looking up the Creek from Cranes dock.

296. South Rondout.

297. Machine Shop & Round House R. & C. R. R.

298. Cross of Flowers.

299. Rapid Hose Carriage.

300. Cement Quarry near Rondout.

301. Cement Quarry near Rondout.

302. Cement Quarry near Rondout.

303. Cement Quarry near Rondout.

304. Cement Quarry near Rondout.

305. Cement Quarry near Rondout.

306. Cement Quarry near Rondout.

307. Cement Quarry near Rondout.

308. Cement Quarry near Rondout.

309. Cement Quarry near Rondout.

310. Cement Quarry near Rondout.

311. Cement Quarry near Rondout.

312. Cement Quarry near Rondout.

313. Cement Quarry near Rondout.

314. Birds-eye view of Rondout from opposite side of Creek.

315. Birds-eye view of Rondout from Sleightburg in Winter.

316. Birds-eye view of Rondout the Creek & South.

317. Birds-eye view of Rondout the Creek & South.

318. Looking up the Creek from Sleightburgh.

319. North Rondout from near Catholic Church.

320. Interior of Presbyterian Church, Rondout.

Legacy

The thousands of portraits of Ulster County citizens taken by Auchmoody over the course of his 25-year career as a photographer and his hundreds of scenic views from throughout the county both leave a lasting impression of the region in the late 1800s.

Upon his passing it was written that Auchmoody “was a man of many sterling traits of character and endeared himself to a wide circle of friends.”

David J. Auchmoody passed away at 58 years of age on January 11, 1907. He died at his home on West Strand several days after catching “a severe cold, which greatly weakened him and hastened the end.” Two funeral services were held, the first being a private service at his home at 11 West Strand, and a second public service was held at Pythian Hall at Port Ewen under the direction of the Hope Lodge, Knights of Pythias. David was survived by his wife and two sons, Luther Auchmoody, of New York, and Lester D. Auchmoody, of Albany, New York. He is buried at Port Ewen Cemetery.

[1] Wilson’s Photographic Magazine. Vol. 27, no. 371. June 7, 1890. p. 351.

[2] “D. J. Auchmoody Dead.” Kingston Daily Freeman (Kingston, New York). January 11, 1907.

[3] “Postmaster Deyo Dead at Saranac.” Kingston Daily Freeman (Kingston, New York). May 26, 1917.

David J. Auchmoody – Kingston, New York Photographer (Part 1)

Sat, 09 Sep 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Introduction

Rondout Creek and Wilbur Road Rondout Creek and Wilbur Road.

Biography

David Jeremiah Auchmoody, more commonly known as D. J., was born at New Paltz, New York on July 19, 1848. He was the son of Peter J. Auchmoody, who worked as a carpenter, and Elmira (Deyo) Auchmoody.

One reference noted that Auchmoody was a native of the hamlet of Plutarch, located on the northeastern edge of the town of New Paltz. The farming community was once home to a post office, a general store, a one room schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop and a church which was constructed in 1861. The Plutarch post office operated for about six months in 1886, closing on November 18, 1886, but was reestablished on August 11, 1890, and then operated for 15 years until its final closing on December 15, 1905. The Plutarch section of the town was at one time called Grawhow (or Grahow), for Great Ridge, was later known as Cold Spring or Cold Spring Corners, from “a fine spring of water” located north of the church, before becoming Plutarch in honor of the Greek philosopher.

According to Ralph Lefevre in his History of New Paltz, New York, the Auchmoody family in Ulster County, New York can be traced back to Jeames Auchmoide, a young man who was born in Scotland. He married Mari Doyo in October, 1731. They built a house in the Bontecoe neighborhood and had six children together, including three sons and three daughters.[1]

The 1850 United States census listed 1-year-old David as living with his parents, 22-year-old Peter and 20-year-old Elmira (sometimes spelled Almira) Auchmoody, in the town of New Paltz in Ulster County, New York. Peter was listed with an occupation of carpenter.

The 1855 New York state census listed 6-year-old Auchmoody as residing with his parents Peter J. and Elmira Auchmoody in the town of Lloyd in Ulster County, New York. Also living in the household was David’s sister, 2-year-old Catherine Auchmoody. Peter was listed with an occupation of carpenter.

The 1860 United States census listed 11-year-old Auchmoody as residing with his parents Peter and Elmira at New Paltz, New York. Also living in the household was David’s sister, 7-year-old Catherine Auchmoody. Peter was listed with an occupation of laborer.

The 1865 New York state census listed 17-year-old Auchmoody as residing with his parents Peter and Elmira at New Paltz in Ulster County, New York. Also living in the household was David’s sister, 13-year-old Catherine Auchmoody. No profession was listed for Peter or David.

For several years, “when a young man,” Auchmoody taught school in the town of Esopus.

In December 1868 Auchmoody, at the age of 20, “started what is now [as of 1881] the oldest photograph gallery in the lower part of the city. Since his venture into business, which at first, of course, was but on a small scale, he has been enabled by strict attention to business, and good work to build up an establishment second to none in the county.” His early gallery was located over Van Deusen’s Drug Store at the corner of Garden and Ferry Streets in the Rondout section of Kingston, New York.

The 1870 United States census listed 22-year-old Auchmoody as living with his parents Peter and Elmira at Rondout in Ulster County, New York. Also living in the household were David’s two sisters, 18-year-old Catherine and 4-year-old Cecilia. Peter was listed with an occupation of carpenter and David was listed with an occupation of photographer.

Catherine (1853-1934), David’s sister, married Martin L. Van Keuren. She lived in Port Ewen for her entire married life. “She was well liked and was a good friend and neighbor and will be missed by her friends and neighbors. She was a member of the Port Ewen Methodist Church and was a very active member until forced to give up some of her duties because of her age and her health.”[2] Catherine passed away in 1934 and is buried at Port Ewen Cemetery.

Celia Auchmoody, David’s sister, “a very attractive and much beloved young lady at Port Ewen, aged about 17 years, and a sister of D. J. Auchmoody of this city, died of typhoid fever after a very short and severe illness.”[3] Celia passed away in 1883.

David Auchmoody married Elvina Ackerman on December 22, 1870. Elvina was the daughter of Oliver Ferris Ackerman (1817-1862) and Jane Ann (Degraff) Ackerman (1816-1900). Elvina passed away at Flushing, Long Island in 1935 and is buried at Port Ewen Cemetery. Elvina was a lineal descendant of Geoffrey Ferris, one of the founders of Greenwich, Connecticut, and also Lieutenant Commander Oliver Ferris (1753-1825), a Revolutionary War officer whose home, Sunnyside, at Tarrytown, later became the home of Washington Irving.

“Capt. Oliver Ferris was born in Greenwich, Conn., Nov. 22, 1753, the son of Josiah, and through John, Jr., and John, was descended from Jeffrey Ferris, the ancestor of that family in this country. Oliver Ferris was married to Abigail, daughter of Enos Lockwood on the 10th of Feb., 1776, by the Rev. Blackleach Burritt, who, on the 17th of the following June was taken prisoner and carried away to be incarcerated in the old Sugar House Prison on account of his staunch patriotism.

Captain Ferris did good service in the Connecticut Militia, and after the Revolution came over to Tarrytown and purchased the historic Major Jacob Van Tassel place, the date of transfer being March 31, 1802. He died Aug. 17, 1825, and his son, Benson Ferris, Sr., in 1835, sold the homestead, comprising ten acres to Washington Irving, who re-built it, and gave it the title of Wolfert’s Roost. Mr. Benson Ferris, son of Benson, Sr., and grandson of Capt. Oliver Ferris, was born there.

The records of the Pension Office at Washington show that Oliver Ferris enlisted May 10, 1775, and was in the expedition to Canada under Gen. Montgomery; was in Col. John Mead’s Regt. From Aug. 14 to Sept. 25, 1776; in Col. Wooster’s Regt. 1777; in 1778 Quartermaster in Col. John Mead’s Regt.; March 9, 1779, appointed Commander of the war vessel “Wakeman”; July 4, 1781, commissioned Brigade Quartermaster of the 4th Brigade of Militia of the State of Connecticut.”[4]

David and Elvina had three children, including Luther M. Auchmoody (1871-1947); George Auchmoody (b. 1877); and Lester Auchmoody (1879-1963).

Luther Auchmoody was born at Port Ewen, New York. He worked as an automobile dealer and sales manager for the H. J. Heinz Company. He married Ellen (Blodgett) Auchmoody. He died at the home of his son in 1947 and is buried at Riverview Cemetery in Port Ewen, New York.

Lester Auchmoody for a time worked at the Standard Oil Company in Albany, New York. He later lived at Denver, Colorado.

In 1870 Auchmoody placed an advertisement in the New Paltz Independent. “D. J. Auchmoody, Photographer, Garden and Ferry Streets, (Over Van Deusen’s Drug Store), Rondout, N.Y. Pictures of all kinds taken. Frames and cases of every style constantly on hand.”

In 1871 Auchmoody was advertising his business in the Rondout Freeman. “Photographs! Pictures & Frames! Auchmoody’s Gallery, (Over Van Deusen’s) Garden & Ferry Sts., is the place to get them.”

Auchmoody advertised his gallery twice in the Gazetteer and Business Directory of Ulster County, N.Y. for 1871-2.

“D. J. Auchmoody’s Gallery and Picture Frame Store, Garden and Ferry Streets, Rondout, N.Y. Stereoscopes and Stereoscopic Views. Picture Frames, all sorts and sizes, very cheap. Every style of Picture taken.”

“D. J. Auchmoody’s Gallery and Picture Frame Store, Garden and Ferry Sts., Rondout, N.Y., is one of the great centers of attraction. Any kind of Picture, with any style of Frame, can be procured here. Call and examine specimens of work and then consult your taste and your purse. If you want a good stereoscope, here is the place to get it.”

In 1871 Auchmoody issued a series of 16 stereoscopic views of the newly constructed Overlook Mountain House. The same set of views was published by both D. J. Auchmoody and fellow Kingston photographer Edward Lewis.

5_South Piazza, Overlook Mountain House

South Piazza, Overlook Mountain House.

7_Parlor, Overlook Mountain House Parlor, Overlook Mountain House.

Top of the Overlook Cliff, looking west.

Located north of Woodstock near the summit of Overlook Mountain, the Overlook Mountain House first opened its doors to guests in 1871, was destroyed by fire in 1875, was rebuilt and reopened in 1878, only to be destroyed by fire again in 1923. There was an attempted 3rd rebuilding that was never completed, the remains of which are still visible on a hike to the summit of Overlook Mountain.

At its height the Overlook Mountain House provided accommodations for approximately 300 guests and offered visitors the latest in modern conveniences and experiences. One of the early advertisements for the Overlook Mountain House, published in 1871, beautifully described its superior accommodations and the mountain setting.

“Overlook Mountain House, Catskill Range. J. E. Lasher, Proprietor. This elegant House will be opened to the public early in the season, and will afford a rare treat for the lovers of the Beautiful, the Grand, and the Sublime, who can enjoy the loveliest of scenery in a first-class hotel.

The house cost $50,000, and is complete throughout, furnishing accommodations that will please the most fastidious and satisfy the most exacting tastes.

The view is unsurpassed not only on the Catskills, but in the country, and combines a grand combination of mountain, valley, river, forest, and cultivated fields. No one who has seen it has failed to speak of it with admiration.

It will be found a delightful spot for excursion and picnic parties, for whom special accommodations will be provided.

A Stage Line from West Hurley on the R. & O. R. R. will be run by the Proprietor of the Overlook, and will connect with the trains. Guests can also obtain the best of livery establishments at Rondout and Kingston.

John E. Lasher, Proprietor. Overlook Mountain House, Woodstock, March 24, 1871.”

John E. Lasher (1827-1899), the first proprietor of the Overlook Mountain House, had previously operated the Mansion House at Kingston, New York from after the Civil War until his taking control of the Overlook.

In order to promote his new hotel, Lasher invited Edward Lewis to photograph the establishment prior to its official opening on June 15, 1871. “Mr. John Lasher, the lessee of the new hotel on the Overlook, has had Mr. E. Lewis, of Kingston, up there taking views of the house and grounds about it during the past week. The views are to be engraven from the photographs, and used in advertising this beautiful new summer resort. Mr. Lewis has the name of being the best artist in Ulster County.”[5]

Given that the set of 16 views was published by both Auchmoody and Lewis, it is likely that Auchmoody also photographed the Overlook Mountain House.

The imprint on the back of each stereoview included a brief description of the hotel, travel directions and a listing of the 16 different views that were available for purchase.

“New Summer Resort in the Catskill Mountains. The OVERLOOK MOUNTAIN HOUSE, 3,800 feet above tide water, on the highest point of the Catskill range, was opened June 15th, 1871. All modern conveniences, including Gas and Telegraph facilities. Reached by Boat or Rail to Rondout; Rondout and Oswego Railroad to West Hurley (9 miles); thence by the Hotel Stages in 3 hours. Overlook Mountain House, Woodstock, Ulster Co., N.Y. John E. Lasher, Proprietor.

No. 1. Catskill Mountains from ascent to the Overlook.

No. 2. Overlook Mountain House, Rocks in foreground.

No. 3. Overlook Mountain House, distant view.

No. 4. Overlook Mountain House, near view.

No. 5. South Piazza, Overlook Mountain House.

No. 6. West Piazza, Overlook Mountain House.

No. 7. Parlor, Overlook Mountain House.

No. 8. Dining Room, Overlook Mountain House.

No. 9. View from the ledge in front of the House.

No. 10. Pulpit Rock, near the House.

No. 11. Devil’s Kitchen, near the House.

No. 12. Cleft in Rocks, near the House.

No. 13. Rocky declivity, near the House.

No. 14. Path to the Overlook.

No. 15. Top of the Overlook Cliff, looking east.

No. 16. Top of the Overlook Cliff, looking west.

The subject published on this card is indicated by a mark under the number and name.

D. J. AUCHMOODY, Photographer, Rondout, N.Y.”

The demand for the stereoscopic views of the Overlook Mountain House published by both Auchmoody and Lewis was very strong. One year after the opening of the Overlook Mountain House the Kingston Daily Freeman wrote of the demand and the scenic views available throughout the region.

“Stereoscopic views. Our photographic artists are turning the natural beauties of this section to good advantage and are making some fine views of the scenery hereabouts. The Overlook furnishes many good views, which find a ready sale at the Mountain House, Mr. Auchmoody and Mr. Lewis being kept pretty busy just now supplying the demand. Of course few visitors wish to leave the spot without some memento of their visit, and a faithful representation of the scenes they have gazed upon in the shape of a stereoscopic view is as pleasing a reminder as they can have. The landscapes about our own city, sketches of scenery along the Wallkill, Rondout and Esopus creeks also are visited by these artists and their beauties transferred to the negative. The wild scenes of Olive and Shandaken and among the Shawangunk Mountains also often form the subject of the picture, and in fact so numerous are the scenes of interest hereabouts that a person can gather a very extensive collection of stereoscopic views comprising only scenes in our own immediate neighborhood.”[6]

The local newspapers frequently published small articles about Auchmoody and his photographic business.

April 4, 1872, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Fine Gallery. David Auchmoody has one of the finest and best photographic galleries in the vicinity. It has been greatly enlarged and improved, refurnished and remodeled, and is now decidedly a pleasant attractive place. David’s smiling face welcomes all his patrons, and he is gaining a reputation for good work which must bring him success.”

April 4, 1872, Kingston Daily Freeman

“The finest lot of stereoscopic pictures in the city, comprising views of Yosemite Valley, the White Mountains, Niagara, and ever other noted place in the country, also of noted persons of the day, foreign views, statuary, etc. Constantly on hand a large and complete assortment of picture frames and all articles usually kept in first-class photograph galleries. A newly furnished room, greatly enlarged and improved, and all the essentials for making good pictures. Satisfaction guaranteed. David Auchmoody, Van Deusen’s Building.”

August 1, 1872, The Daily Freeman (Kingston, New York)

“Chromos, Photographs and Stereoscopic Views.– Mr. D. J. Auchmoody, the Photographer, is closing out his fine stock of Chromos, which he is selling at greatly reduced prices, preparatory to procuring a new stock. Those who wish to obtain fine pictures at exceedingly low prices will do well to call at once. Also a large and varied assortment of Stereoscopic Views. Photography in all its branches carefully and satisfactorily attended to. D. J. AUCHMOODY’S, over Van Deusen’s Drug Store, Rondout.”

December 21, 1872, The Daily Freeman (Kingston, New York)

“All wishing photographs for the holidays should call as soon as convenient, so as to give us time to finish them properly. D. J. Auchmoody, Photographer, Garden and Ferry Sts., Rondout.”

December 18, 1872, Kingston Daily Freeman

“A large stock of picture frames of every size and style on hand and made to order at Auchmoody’s Photograph Gallery, Garden and Ferry Sts., Rondout.”

December 30, 1872, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Chromos, Stereoscopic Views and Photographs. Auchmoody, the Photographer, has a fine assortment of Chromos, representing the famous paintings – landscapes, views, etc., – of our most noted artists. Also a large and varied stock of Stereoscopic Views, embracing scenes of every description, home and foreign. Photographs and other pictures carefully taken.”

September 16, 1873, Kingston Daily Freeman

“A new lot of plain and very fine polished moulding for square frames of any size at AUCHMOODY’S Photography Gallery, Garden street, Rondout.”

December 10, 1873, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Sime Wood’s advertising card, photographed by Auchmoody from drawings of John C. Horton is a unique thing and a bully dodge.”

December 12, 1873, Kingston Daily Freeman

“TWENTY-TWO different styles of STEREOSCOPES and over 5,000 views to select from at Auchmoody’s Photographic and Picture Frame Rooms, Garden street.”

March 31, 1874, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Moth will not eat wire picture cord; for sale at Auchmoody’s Photograph Gallery, Garden street. Also Picture Frames of every style.”

May 9, 1874, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Auchmoody, the photographer, has in his gallery a very fine collection of stereoscopic views, his latest being an excellent photograph of the house of Jansen Hasbrouck, taken from the Garden street entrance April 29th, the grounds being covered with a mantle of snow. The photograph is well toned and very artistically finished.”

December 19, 1874, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Auchmoody, the photographer, on Friday took a number of views of the Presbyterian chapel on Abeel street, with its decorations for the fair, including the fancy dressed waiters.”

December 21, 1874 advertisements, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Graphoscope. Come and see the little graphoscope at Auchmoody’s, The Strand, Rondout.”

“Picture Frames. The largest assortment of Picture Frames of all sizes and styles and Auchmoody’s, The Strand, Rondout.”

“Stereoscopes and views. A new lot at Auchmoody’s, The Strand, Rondout.”

Aqueduct, at High Falls, N.Y. Aqueduct at High Falls.

The 1875 New York state census listed Auchmoody as living in the first election district of the town of Esopus in Ulster County, New York. He was living with his wife Lavina and his 3-year-old son Luther Auchmoody. Auchmoody was listed with an occupation of photographer.

May 27, 1875 advertisement, Kingston Daily Freeman

“D. J. Auchmoody, Photographer, and dealer in Picture Frames in large assortment. Strand and Ferry Street.”

September 16, 1875, The Times (New Paltz)

“D. J. Auchmoody, photographer in Rondout, was in our village Tuesday. He had on his head a straw hat large enough to cover half of Rondout. As an artist he has no equal, and a visit to his gallery will convince most any person of the truth of this fact.”

November 18, 1875, The Independent (New Paltz)

“We received a call on Saturday from David J. Auchmoody, the artist of Rondout. Mr. Auchmoody has won a reputation as a good artist, and has met an extensive patronage. Give him a trial when you want your pictures taken. He has also a great variety of stereoscopic views, no less than 170 in number, including many of local interest. He deals in picture frames also, and those who need any can obtain what they want by calling on him.”

December 17, 1875, Red Hook Journal

“Mr. D. J. Auchmoody, of Rondout, continues to take pictures in his usual artistic manner, and can give you a perfect likeness of yourself at short notice. He also has a large stock of views, picture frames, & c., constantly on hand.”

November 1, 1876, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Auchmoody’s fancy pictures excite the open-mouthed wonder and covetousness of the small boys.”

November 1, 1876, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Best Photographs in the City. At Auchmoody’s is the place to get them. Call and see specimens at the new rooms, 29 Union avenue, Rondout.”

November 15, 1876 advertisement, Kingston Daily Freeman

“D. J. Auchmoody, photographer and dealer in frames, looking-glasses, views, & c. Union Ave., one door below Abeel St.”

December 15, 1876, Kingston Daily Freeman

“A Lot of Brackets. Chromos, Steel Engraving, Statuary Mottoes, Panel Pictures, Frames, etc., etc., just received for the Holiday trad e at Auchmoody’s, 29 Union avenue, Rondout.”

April 26, 1878, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Notice to the Public. I have secured the services of Mr. Lorenzo Short in my Photographic department. Those wishing Mr. Short or myself to photograph them can be served by calling at 29 Union avenue. I would state that I am taking photographs at as low a price, and of as good quality, as can be obtained in the city. D. J. AUCHMOODY.”

June 7, 1878, Kingston Daily Freeman

“The work of illustrating prominent features of this city and its surroundings by the New York Graphic has been commenced, D. J. Auchmoody, the photographer, yesterday taking a number of photographs of the Anthracite Fuel Works at Port Ewen, the creek and portions of the city bordering on it, from W. B. Crane’s docks. The illustrations will made from the photographs.”

June 13, 1878, Kingston Daily Freeman

“An Acknowledgment. To the Editor of the Freeman: Will you permit me through your excellent paper to acknowledge the receipt, by the kindness of Captain Rogers, from friends at Port Ewen of a choice token in the form of a photograph of the Methodist Episcopal church and parsonage in that place, beautifully executed by Mr. Auchmoody, of your city, and very neatly and appropriately framed. And I wish also to say to my friends that its place in our parlor is like that of the donors in our remembrance and affections – prominent and central.”

July 9, 1878, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Auchmoody, the photographer, is a great bird fancier, and has quite a collection of feathered pets. His tame crow and two young hawks may not be exactly as musical as canaries, but they are very intelligent and learn all sorts of comical tricks.”

November 26, 1878, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Photographs – the best in the city – taken at Auchmoody’s old stand, 29 Union avenue, Rondout.”

May 27, 1880, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Photographing a Trout. The photograph of the largest trout ever caught in the Neversink with a hook and line by Auchmoody, is a fine work of art, but the fifteen-inch trout appears at a disadvantage, as he should have been stuffed or blown up like a bladder before the photograph was taken. His head is about all that remains of him and that looks as if he had been run through a thrashing machine.”

The 1880 United States census listed 31-year-old Auchmoody as living in the 4th ward of the city of Kingston, New York. Also living in the household was his 28-year-old wife Elvina, and his three sons, 8-year-old Luther, 3-year-old George and 8-month-old Lester. David was listed with an occupation of photographer.

As of 1881, Auchmoody “at present occupies two upper floors in the brick building next to A. P. Van Buren’s grocery, corner Mill street and Union avenue, and has the rooms therein suitably furnished for photograph and picture frame work. A large assortment of elegant velvet, and engraved ebony frames can also be here obtained and made to order. He also has a large stock of stereoscopic and graphoscopic views. In addition to his already ample facilities for making pictures incomparable this side of New York, he will shortly fit his skylight room with new backgrounds of snow, outdoor and indoor, scenes never seen in this city before. For good Cabinets and Cards or Photographs of larger or smaller sizes, call on D. J. Auchmoody, and receive satisfaction. He will neither “blatter” you, nor give you a picture you cannot recognize, but will take a perfect likeness at every sitting.”[7]

February 12, 1881, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Aldermen’s Portraits. The portraits of the Aldermen in cabinet size placed in a large frame with the Mayor in the center, were brought up to the Common Council rooms Friday night by Mr. Auchmoody, the photographer, and hung up on the wall. This is a private speculation on the part of the Aldermen, who pay a certain amount each out of their own pockets for the honor of seeing their faces look down upon them from the historical walls of the Council rooms. The pictures are all well taken, and it would be an excellent plan if Mr. Auchmoody could extend his work so as to take in those who have been members of the Common Council since the formation of the city, with other representatives of the city, each, of course, putting his hand into his pocket and paying for his share according to the example set by the present Common Council.”

March 16, 1881, Kingston Daily Freeman

“PHOTOGRAPHS & PICTURE FRAMES. I wish to inform my customers that I am ready for business at my old stand, 29 Union avenue, except I have moved my frame department to the second story. My expenses are reduced and I can furnish frames, etc., cheaper than before and give more attention to Photographing. D. J. Auchmoody, Operator.”

April 28, 1881, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Auchmoody, the photographer, has just put in a large supply of picture frames and mouldings, which he will sell as cheaply as they can be had elsewhere.”

April 30, 1881, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Each member of the Common Council of last year is being supplied with a group picture nicely framed of the old Council by D. J. Auchmoody, the photographer.”

May 10, 1881, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Auchmoody, the photographer, has taken photographs of Montalvo’s glass prize and the glass ship which were displayed in the Baby Show window and will make stereoscopic views of them.”

June 20, 1881, Kingston Daily Freeman

“D. J. Auchmoody, photographer of this city, took a photograph of the Grand Hotel Mountain House wagon, as it stood in front of Burr’s livery stable, on Mill street, this morning.”

September 10, 1881, Kingston Daily Freeman

“An elegant large picture of Mr. John Weber, executed by photographer Auchmoody, was displayed today in D. A. Ainley’s jewelry store window.”

April 23, 1883, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Information Wanted. – Anyone having a picture of Fred A. Gross, who died in November, 1881, will confer a great favor by calling on or communicating with D. J. Auchmoody, Photographer, 29 Union avenue, Rondout.”

May 18, 1883, Kingston Daily Freeman

“The Wurts Street Baptist parsonage was being photographed by Auchmoody today.”

June 5, 1883, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Photographic Views. Mr. Beale, who is working in connection with D. J. Auchmoody, the photographer, of this city, has recently made some very fine views of the Wurts Street Baptist church and parsonage.”

February 8, 1884, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Change of Base. Auchmoody, the well known photographer, is to soon remove to the Newkirk building on lower Union avenue, a portion of which is to be expressly fitted up for his accommodation. He will gain by the change a much larger operating room, better light and many other facilities for the successful prosecution of his business.”

February 22, 1884, Kingston Daily Freeman

“CABINET PHOTOS, $2 A DOZ. Until further notice by Auchmoody, Rondout, N.Y.”

July 21, 1884, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Auchmoody occupies a large space in Ainley’s show windows today with specimens of his skill in photography, etc. Among the display are excellent photographs of William Winter of this city and Col. John McEntee.”

September 5, 1884, Kingston Daily Freeman

“D. J. Auchmoody was engaged today in photographing the presents Cornell Hose received at Utica.”

September 22, 1884, Kingston Daily Freeman

“The Hartford Phalanx. The Putnam Phalanx of Hartford arrived at Rhinebeck this afternoon on the Hartford & Connecticut Western Railroad, on their way to Albany and Lake George. They formed in line after disembarking from the railroad train and marched to the top of the hill, where a photograph was taken of the whole company by D. J. Auchmoody. It is needless to say the command presented a very martial and soldierly appearance. But little time was had at Rhinecliff, and as soon as the photographer was through with his work the command had to step off lively to get on board the C. Vibbard.”

Continued next week . . .

[1] Lefevre, Ralph. History of New Paltz New York and Its Old Families (From 1678 to 1820). Fort Orange Press, 1903. pp. 451-452.

[2] Kingston Daily Freeman (Kingston, New York). March 14, 1934.

[3] “Death of Miss Celia Auchmoody.” Kingston Daily Freeman (Kingston, New York). May 14, 1883.

[4] Raymond, Marcius D. Souvenir of the Revolutionary Soldiers’ Monument Dedication at Tarrytown, N.Y. October 19th, 1894. Tarrytown, N.Y., 1894. pp. 179-180.

[5] Kingston Daily Freeman (Kingston, New York). March 24, 1871.

[6] Kingston Daily Freeman (Kingston, New York). August 27, 1872.

[7] “D. J. Auchmoody.” Kingston Daily Freeman. December 20, 1881.

Edward Lewis – Saugerties, Kingston and Ellenville, NY Photographer (Part 2)

Sat, 02 Sep 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Edward Lewis operated a popular photography gallery at the village of Saugerties, New York during the late 1860s and at the city of Kingston in Ulster County, New York from the late 1860s to 1883. In addition to his portrait work Lewis issued a wide range of scenic stereoscopic views from throughout the Catskills. From 1883 to 1886 Lewis operated a gallery at the village of Ellenville. After leaving the Catskills region Lewis later established galleries at Nyack, New York and Norwalk, Connecticut.

Continued from August 26, 2023.

Great Crevice, near Ice Cave, Choice Views of Scenery in and about Ellenville.

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The 1880 United States census listed 50-year-old Edward Lewis living in the city of Kingston in Ulster County, New York. Also living in the household was his 35-year-old wife Mary A. Lewis, his 9-year-old daughter Nina A. Lewis and a 23-year-old servant from Ireland by the name of Mary Roach. Edward was listed with an occupation of photographer, while Mary was listed with an occupation of “housekeeping” and Nina was listed with an occupation of “private school.” Edward was listed as having been born in New York, as were both his parents. Mary was listed as having been born in Ohio, as were both her parents.

February 24, 1880, Kingston Daily Freeman

“The Cost to Publish Your Portrait. It is said that to have your portrait in the coming history of Ulster County requires from $20 to $180, according to the location and the kind of engraving. Judging by the large number of photographs taken every day at Lewis’ gallery to be used to make these engravings after, the historians will make a very good thing out of this branch of work alone. Some one suggests that a few pages be illustrated with Ulster county rogues and that it be called the rogues’ gallery.”

July 12, 1880, Kingston Daily Freeman

“E. Lewis, the photographer in Dimmick’s building, has placed out on the building a large new case of photographs.”

October 15, 1880, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Ed Lewis, the photographer, had his machine out this morning and took a number of views of the Eagle Hotel. Some one got off a joke by telling around that Lewis was ‘taking something at the Eagle Hotel.’”

November 26, 1880, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Lewis, the photographer, has a perfect galaxy of beautiful faces in his new picture case in the Dimmick building, the faces being those recognized as the handsomest young ladies of that part of the city, and the pictures show them, save the color, at their best.”

December 15, 1880, Kingston Daily Freeman

“A perfect rush for photographs and fine frames for holiday presents at Lewis Uptown. Hours for sittings from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.”

December 15, 1880, Kingston Daily Freeman

“No sittings for Photographs made by Lewis after 3 p.m. For the very best results come early in the day.”

In 1881 Edward Lewis lost the assistance of one of his best workers, T. D. Lewis, who decided that he wanted to run his own photographic establishment. This loss inevitably increased the business competition for Edward Lewis, and may have even led to his leaving the city of Kingston two years later in 1883.

Theodore Dawes Lewis had come to work at the gallery of Edward Lewis when he was 20 years old. Theodore worked there for seven years, thereafter opening a studio for himself at No. 9 Wall Street in Kingston. Theodore remained there for five years, “when his rapidly growing business necessitated his removal to the corner of Wall and John streets, where he occupies the entire upper floor.”[1]

February 21, 1881, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Ed. Lewis, the west end photographer, will photograph the decorations of the Grand Army Bazar.”

May 27, 1881, Kingston Daily Freeman

“E. Lewis, the photographer, intends next week to visit the town of Shandaken to take views of the country and also of several of the mountain houses in that section. Mr. Lewis will also pass through Chichesterville and visit the Notch, of which he will take a number of views. This same gentleman contemplates making an extended tour of the county during the coming season; to travel the whole of the mountainous region and also through Wawarsing and Ellenville and over the Shawangunk mountains. He considers, and rightly, that there are many fine views in and about the county and also at Ellenville which should not be lost. That the public will appreciate them there is not a doubt. Many a farmer in that section would delight to have the old place taken, the “old oaken bucket hanging in the well,” the house and the barn, and even the corn house, to send to the far away former members of his family. Mr. Lewis’ well-known ability as an artist in doing superior work will be sufficient to give him all the work he can possibly attend to.”

June 11, 1881, Kingston Daily Freeman

“E. Lewis, the photographer, has a photographic sulky, or two-wheeled vehicle, all ready for business, to be used in taking views of the mountain houses. The extraordinary wet weather has prevented him from starting out, as the dampness of the leaves of the trees makes them so dark and heavy that, he says, the pictures would necessarily be very poor ones if taken now. He is anxiously looking for clear weather.”

June 25, 1881, Kingston Daily Freeman

“The graduating classes of Kingston and Ulster Academies have been photographed, the former by Lewis uptown and the latter by Lorenzo Short, on The Strand, downtown.”

July 11, 1881, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Fine Photographic Views. Mr. E. Lewis, the photographer uptown, with a great deal of labor, managed to take some very fine views of the Grand Hotel, though in order to do it a high platform had to be erected to place his instruments on. He also took a number of landscape views around about the hotel, as well as a number of the Tremper House. He had these worked up into stereoscopic pictures, and they will be sold to guests or any one who may desire them. One of the photographs of the hotel is a large one.”

July 23, 1881, Kingston Daily Freeman

“E. Lewis, the photographer, has a number of large photographs of the Summit House.”

August 1, 1881, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Photographs of the Summit Mountain House. Mr. Lewis, the uptown photographer, has a number of his large photographs of the Summit Mountain House ready for framing. The photograph proper is 14x17 inches, and gives a complete front view of the house with the grounds, and the mountain in the rear, covered with trees, which are in fall foliage. The picture is an excellent one, everything being in bold relief, and taken with remarkable accuracy and lack of imperfections, as where there are a number of horses, as in this picture, it is a hard matter to take them without one or more of the animals moving, and with the wind blowing the trees are also troublesome, while the flags, too, are apt to shake so as not to show well. In these pictures not only are the horses well taken, but the flagpoles and flags, and a couple of dead pine trees for in the rear show distinctly every twig and limb. The pictures, as mounted, require a frame 18x22 inches.”

August 9, 1881, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Rustic Scenery. Mr. Lewis, the uptown photographer, the other day, requiring a bit of rustic scenery, drove out to Old Hurley, purchased a piece of an old post and a rail fence, brought it back with him, and now has something that is quite original for pictures. It isn’t everyone who can have a centennial post and rail fence, with the moss on it, in his picture.”

October 13, 1881, Kingston Daily Freeman

“E. Lewis has a beautiful crayon portrait of his wife, which has been placed in the window of Forsyth & Wilson’s store. It is a very fine picture and of large size.”

November 7, 1881, Kingston Daily Freeman

“A fine picture of ex-Alderman Freileweh in Lewis’ gallery attracted quite a crowd today.”

November 10, 1881, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Bewildering with Belles. Lewis’ Gallery on John street is perfectly bewildering with fair ones this week. Two belles have had their pictures taken with their necks enveloped in white ostrich plumes and look very fascinating indeed – as though they had thrown around them a dash of sea spray.”

July 27, 1882, The Saugerties Telegraph

“E. Lewis, the photographer, at Kingston, has secured the services of a skillful negative retoucher from Pearsall’s famous photograph gallery in Brooklyn.”

November 23, 1882, The Saugerties Telegraph

“E. Lewis, the photographer of Kingston, is getting up a handsome cabinet of photographs of all who have been sheriffs of the county.”

In 1883 Lewis began contemplating establishing a branch gallery at the village of Ellenville, approximately 30 miles southwest of Kingston. He would initially continue to run both the Kingston gallery and the Ellenville gallery, but sold the Kingston gallery only a few months after his arrival at Ellenville.

“A Veteran Photographer. To Establish a Gallery at Ellenville, and Reside There Hereafter. E. Lewis, the uptown photographer, is getting his Ellenville gallery in condition to do good work, and will move up there about the middle of May. Mr. Lewis’ place of business will be on Canal street, and he will reside in the same building in which his gallery will be placed. The gallery in this city will be run by a competent man under the supervision, however, of Mr. Lewis, who expects to take charge of both of them. Mr. Lewis is an artist of the higher class, and very industrious and enterprising, and no doubt he will give Ellenville an opportunity of patronizing one of the best photograph galleries outside of New York City.

Mr. Lewis should have great praise for one thing if for no other. He has made more good landscape pictures of Ulster county scenery than any other artist. His views taken from different parts of the county are excellent, and the Ellenville people could do no better than employ him to take some of the charming views in that section and work them up into stereoscopic views. Not only would there be a ready sale for them, but it would be a source of great delight for thousands of people at that place and who are residing outside of the town, but who are familiar with some of the many magnificent views which can be seen in it.”[2]

Giant's Leap, Choice Views of Scenery in and about Ellenville.

Mountain Brook Grotto, Choice Views of Scenery in and about Ellenville.

March 7, 1883, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Jos. S. Thompson has rented the second and third stories of the brick building on Canal street, below Leopold’s to Edward Lewis of Kingston, who will occupy them as a photograph gallery and dwelling rooms.”

May 1, 1883, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Ed. Lewis, the photographer, is getting ready to remove to Ellenville, packing his furniture in a car so as to send it there by railroad. He has come to the conclusion that a man never knows the amount of material he has until the time comes to move it.”

May 12, 1883, 1883, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Lewis’ Quarters at Ellenville. The building being fitted up for Lewis, the photographer, is approaching completion. Mr. Lewis will have one of the finest galleries in Ellenville to be found outside of New York city, and all who are acquainted with his skill know that he will rival the very best city work. A rush of orders awaits him here as soon as his gallery opens. – Ellenville Press.”

May 24, 1883, The Saugerties Telegraph

“E. Lewis, who has carried on the photographic business in Kingston for a number of years past, and who formerly had a gallery here [Saugerties], is about to open a branch gallery in Ellenville, which the Press of that place says will be one of the finest to be found outside of New York city.”

June 8, 1883, Kingston Daily Freeman

“To Open on Monday Next. Mr. Lewis, the photographer, has his rooms nearly ready and expects to open them for business on Monday next. His gallery will be an important addition to our village. – Ellenville Press.”

July 27, 1883 advertisement, Ellenville Journal

“Photographs! Mr. E. Lewis, of Kingston, has just finished his Handsomely Fitted Gallery, which is complete in all its appointments. The Skylight Room is a model in regard to light, accessories and access. In the Reception Room will be found specimens of every size and style, from finely finished Life-size to small Carts De Visites, all of which speak in unmistakable terms of the excellence of Mr. Lewis’s efforts in Art.

His arrangements for procuring any requisite shade of light by means of a system of sliding and overlapping Curtains may be pronounced absolutely perfect; and what he has done in the past is a guarantee of future success with his improved facilities.

In soliciting Ellenville patronage he promises Good and Satisfactory Work.

Instantaneous Pictures of children a specialty.

Gallery 129 Canal Street, Ellenville, N.Y.”

August 8, 1883, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Mr. E. Lewis, photographer, has a number of views of Ellenville and surrounding places in his salesrooms in the Dimmick building, uptown. His views of Honk Falls are the best, and certainly are very fine.”

August 9, 1883, Kingston Daily Freeman

“E. Lewis, the photographer, has sold his photographic gallery in this city to a gentleman by the name of Becker of Hudson. Mr. Becker is a student of the celebrated photographer Forshew.”

August 17, 1883, Ellenville Journal

“Such is the gratifying success with which Mr. Lewis the photographer has met in Ellenville that he has disposed of his long established and popular gallery in Kingston, and will henceforth devote himself to the development of his business here, giving the public of Ellenville and vicinity all the advantages of a first-class city art gallery.”

September 10, 1883, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Mr. Lewis, the photographer, has an order from Surrogate Parker for a life-size crayon portrait of his little son, recently deceased. The work has been entrusted to the skillful pencil of Mr. Bozenhart. – Ellenville Press.”

October 4, 1883, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Mr. Becker, the photographer who bought the gallery of E. Lewis, has been making some street photographs, for the water works men. Two of those on John street are very handsome, especially where he caught the new gray horse of Superintendent Low.”

February 29, 1884 advertisement, Ellenville Journal

“For a Short Time Only! Cabinet Size Photographs reduced to $3.50 per Doz. for single dozen! Clubs of ten $3.00 per Dozen, and an extra dozen to the person forming the Club. At Lewis’s Gallery, Thompson Building, Canal Street, Ellenville, N.Y.”

April 3, 1884, Ellenville Journal

“Special Notice. Persons wishing Photographs for the Holidays should get their sittings at once. All who can should come early in the day, as it is impossible for us to accommodate all who require our services in the afternoon. N. B. No sittings made after 3 o’clock p.m. E. Lewis.”

November 20, 1885, Ellenville Journal

“Big Tumble in Photographs at Lewis’ Gallery, Thompson Building, Ellenville, N.Y. Until further notice we will make CABINET PHOTOGRAPHS, in style, Best Work and Best Mounts for only three dollars per dozen!”

Portrait, Well Dressed Young Man, by Edward Lewis.

Portrait, Young Girl, by Edward Lewis.

By the end of 1885 Lewis had decided to leave Ellenville. He sold his gallery to Edwin A. Davis, with the gallery soon after being run by Edwin’s son, Winfield S. Davis. W. S. Davis would operate the gallery until 1902, selling it after the death of his wife Lillian. The gallery was then purchased by Albert V. Porter, who operated the business until 1918.

“Mr. E. Lewis, the photographer in Thompson’s building, has sold out his business to Mr. E. A. Davis, from Danbury, Conn., who has already taken possession and commenced work. Mr. Lewis, who has been among us for more than two and half years, is not only a skillful and experienced artist, but an excellent citizen as well. We are pleased to learn that he does not contemplate immediate removal from town. We trust that Mr. Davis may find the lines fallen pleasantly, and meet with abundant success.”[3]

By February, 1886 Lewis, “having visited quite a number of places, north and south for a business location,” had decided to leave Ellenville for the village of Nyack in Rockland County, New York.[4] Lewis was joined by F. C. Weeks, “a skillful retoucher, of Middletown.”

It is not known how long Lewis remained at Nyack, but his obituary noted that after leaving Ellenville, the Lewis family went “from there to Norwalk, where they have made their home ever since, and where for many years Mr. Lewis was highly esteemed as an artistic photographer.” A logo embossed on a portrait taken by Lewis at Norwalk noted that his gallery was located on Main Street.

The 1900 United States census listed Edward Lewis as living in the city of Norwalk in Fairfield County, Connecticut. Also living in the household was his wife Mary A. Lewis and his daughter Nina A. Lewis. Edward and Mary were married for 30 years and had one child. Edward was listed with an occupation of photographer and Nina was listed with an occupation of music teacher.

The 1910 United States census listed 80-year-old Edward Lewis as living Norwalk City in Fairfield County, New York. Also living in the household was 60-yearold wife Mary Lewis. Edward was listed with an occupation of photographer. They were listed as having one child, who was still living.

Legacy

Upon his passing it was written that Lewis “was for many years not only the leading photographer of Kingston, but of this section of the state.” In addition to thousands of portraits of Ulster County citizens, Lewis extensively photographed the regional scenery, including the city of Kingston, the Rondout Creek, the Esopus Creek, the Wallkill Creek, the Esopus at Glenerie, Overlook Mountain, the Shandaken Mountains, local cement quarries and much more.

Edward Lewis died at the age of 88 in his home at Norwalk, Connecticut on December 21, 1917. He had been in poor health for “some time” prior to his passing. He was survived by his wife and one daughter, Mrs. Charles Lang, of Norwalk. Both Edward and his wife Mary are buried at Riverside Cemetery in Norwalk, Connecticut.

[1] Commemorative Biographical Record of Ulster County, New York. Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. p. 878.

[2] “A Veteran Photographer.” Kingston Daily Freeman (Kingston, New York). April 19, 1883.

[3] Ellenville Journal (Ellenville, New York). December 25, 1885.

[4] Ellenville Journal (Ellenville, New York). February 19, 1886.

Edward Lewis – Saugerties, Kingston and Ellenville, NY Photographer (Part 1)

Sat, 26 Aug 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Introduction

Pulpit Rock, near the house (Overlook Mountain House).

Biography

Edward Lewis was born in August 1829 in Chenango County, New York. Chenango County, formed in 1798, is located in the central part of New York State.

An advertisement placed by Lewis in 1868 noted that he “had seventeen years experience in Photography, in England and America.” This would mean that Lewis began his photography career around 1851, at 21 years of age. Little more is known at this point about this time period in Lewis’ life.

In the late 1860s Lewis was operating as a photographer at the village of Saugerties along the Hudson River. His business was located on Partition Street, next to Van Buskirk’s drug store. In February 1868 Lewis placed the following advertisement in The Saugerties Telegraph.

“Photographer.– Notice to the Public. Mr. Lewis respectfully requests his patrons (all who can do so) to call in the early part of the day, as it is impossible for him to wait on all who require his services in the afternoon, consequently many go away without securing the shadow. Morning is decidedly the best time for children, as we are more at leisure and can give them more of our time and attention. Persons wishing large pictures taken should call at about eleven, if possible.”

In March 1868 Lewis placed the following advertisement in the local newspaper.

“A Treat for the Million. Good Photographs for Everybody. Mr. E. Lewis takes great pleasure in announcing to the people of Saugerties and vicinity that he has taken the Photographic Rooms adjoining Mr. Van Buskirk’s drug store, Partition street, refitted the same, and is now ready for the reception of visitors. Mr. L. having had seventeen years experience in Photography, in England and America, places him in the front ranks of his profession; and he assures the public that no pains or expense will be spared, on his part, to secure fine pictures and give satisfaction to his patrons. All kinds of pictures produced on the shortest notice, from miniature to life size, plain or finished in Oil, Water color or India Ink.

Prices from 25 Cts. To $50. Particular attention paid to copying, old pictures enlarged or diminished, and finished as above if required. Give him a call, examine specimens and try his skill. Saugerties, Dec. 16th 1867.”[1]

In May of 1868 Lewis placed another advertisement in the local newspaper, thanking the people for Saugerties for their business and announcing some of the new services that he offered.

“Photography. Mr. Edw. Lewis begs to return thanks to the inhabitants of Saugerties and vicinity for their very liberal patronage during his stay among them, and hopes by attention to their interests, to merit a continuance of their favors. He would also say that he is now prepared to execute views of private residences, landscapes and all other outdoor photography, both large and stereoscopic, in the best manner, (having recently purchased instruments expressly for that purpose.) Orders from the country solicited and promptly attended to. Specimens at the Gallery. He wishes to call special attention to his India Ink & Water Color Work.

Old pictures enlarged in the above styles. Always on hand the largest stock of oval and square frames in town. Plain and fine cases of every variety for small work. Photographs of the different Churches for sale.”[2]

In May of 1868 Lewis moved from the village of Saugerties to Kingston, where he leased the photographic rooms that had been recently occupied by George A. Vallet. The people of Saugerties lost a respected member of their community. “In the removal of Mr. Lewis to Kingston, our place loses not only the best artist it ever had, one who was always prompt in his business and courteous to visitors, but also a kind and an agreeable citizen. We feel confident that the people of Kingston will appreciate his skill in the Photographic art and extend him a liberal patronage.”[3]

In November 1868 the partnership between Lewis and Edward Jernegan (1841-1922), which operated under the name of “The Kingston Photographic Company,” was dissolved “by mutual consent.” It was agreed that Jernegan would continue the photography business at Saugerties while Lewis would remain in Kingston. Edward Jernegan would go on to prominence in the Saugerties newspaper industry, founding the Saugerties Daily Post in 1877 and the Saugerties Daily Telegraph in 1897.

In 1871 Lewis issued a series of 16 stereoscopic views of the newly constructed Overlook Mountain House. Located north of Woodstock near the summit of Overlook Mountain, the Overlook Mountain House first opened its doors to guests in 1871, was destroyed by fire in 1875, was rebuilt and reopened in 1878, only to be destroyed by fire again in 1923. There was an attempted 3rd rebuilding that was never completed, the remains of which are still visible on a hike to the summit of Overlook Mountain.

The house cost $50,000, and is complete throughout, furnishing accommodations that will please the most fastidious and satisfy the most exacting tastes.

It will be found a delightful spot for excursion and picnic parties, for whom special accommodations will be provided.

John E. Lasher, Proprietor. Overlook Mountain House, Woodstock, March 24, 1871.”

In order to promote his new hotel, Lasher invited Lewis to photograph the establishment prior to its official opening on June 15, 1871. “Mr. John Lasher, the lessee of the new hotel on the Overlook, has had Mr. E. Lewis, of Kingston, up there taking views of the house and grounds about it during the past week. The views are to be engraven from the photographs, and used in advertising this beautiful new summer resort. Mr. Lewis has the name of being the best artist in Ulster County.”[4]

The imprint on the back of each stereoview included a brief description of the hotel, travel directions and a listing of the 16 different views that were available for purchase.

No. 1. Catskill Mountains from ascent to the Overlook.

No. 2. Overlook Mountain House, Rocks in foreground.

No. 3. Overlook Mountain House, distant view.

No. 4. Overlook Mountain House, near view.

No. 5. South Piazza, Overlook Mountain House.

No. 6. West Piazza, Overlook Mountain House.

No. 7. Parlor, Overlook Mountain House.

No. 8. Dining Room, Overlook Mountain House.

No. 9. View from the ledge in front of the House.

No. 10. Pulpit Rock, near the House.

No. 11. Devil’s Kitchen, near the House.

No. 12. Cleft in Rocks, near the House.

No. 13. Rocky declivity, near the House.

No. 14. Path to the Overlook.

No. 15. Top of the Overlook Cliff, looking east.

No. 16. Top of the Overlook Cliff, looking west.

The subject published on this card is indicated by a mark under the number and name.

ED. LEWIS, Photographer, Kingston, N.Y.”

South Piazza, Overlook Mountain House

South Piazza, Overlook Mountain House.

Overlook Mountain House, New Summer Resort in the Catskill Mountains.

Top of the Overlook Cliff, looking west (Overlook Mountain House).

The demand for the stereoscopic views of the Overlook Mountain House taken by Lewis, and fellow photographer D. J. Auchmoody, was very strong. One year after the opening of the Overlook Mountain House the Kingston Daily Freeman wrote of the demand and the scenic views available throughout the region.

March 24, 1871, Saugerties Telegraph

“Lewis’ National Photograph Gallery, Cor. Wall and John Streets, Kingston, N.Y. Photographs in every desirable Style of the art. Rembrandt Effects or Shadow Pictures a Specialty. Old pictures copied and enlarged to any size and, if desired, Finished in Oil, India Ink, or Water Colors, by a first-class Artist on the premises.

Specimens of Finished Work on Exhibition at the Gallery. I shall the coming season give my personal attention to Out-Door Work, On plates from Stereoscopic size to 14x17 inches (10x12 inch plate is largest size used by me heretofore.)

Views of Residences, Public Buildings, Churches, Mills, Factories, Blocks of Buildings, Streets, Quarries, Groups, Horses, Cattle, & c., &c.

All orders for the above will receive prompt attention and be filled in turn at moderate prices.

EDW. LEWIS, P. O. Box 181, Kingston, N.Y.”

April 14, 1871, The Rondout Freeman

“E. Lewis, photographer, takes splendid pictures. He is going to Big Indian in a few days, to take views of that delicious country and also of the locomotive John C. Brodhead.”

May 6, 1871, The Rondout Freeman

“Lewis, the photographer, has a gallery of fine views, taken from home scenes. The best, probably, is the residence of W. B. Crane at Ponckhockie.”

May 12, 1871, The Rondout Freeman

“At the Stereoscopic exhibition of last week many home views, principally taken by Lewis, were shown upon the canvas. This exhibition was quite a success, and not at all marred because the scenes were generally shown wrong side up, as they were always presented anew in their proper position. Besides, this gave the audiences a better chance to view them in a manner they probably could never do by visiting the localities represented, unless indeed they, looked at them clown-fashion by standing on their heads.”

June 9, 1871, The Rondout Freeman

“Lewis’s Gallery contains a fine photograph of the steamer “Thomas Cornell.” This picture is almost perfection, even the shadows made by the wires that brace the smoke stacks, being plainly visible.”

July 21, 1871, The Rondout Freeman

“In Lewis’s gallery there are some fine views of the Overlook Mountain House. The piazza of the hotel is crowded with the party from this place and Rondout, who were on the mountain last week Wednesday. Their faces can be readily recognized, and altogether the picture is a good one.”

July 28, 1871, The Rondout Freeman

“Lewis says he might have taken a much better picture of the Overlook House had not the visitors felt so funny. It seemed very hard for them to keep their heads still.”

September 22, 1871, The Rondout Freeman

At the Ulster County Fair: “Mr. Lewis had some very fine photographs, one of his wife being a brilliant specimen of art, and Dr. Loughran’s a speaking likeness and a splendid triumph of the artist.”

October 20, 1871, The Rondout Freeman

“A large new gallery of pictures is displayed by Lewis at his gallery on John street.”

May 27, 1872 advertisement, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Photographic Card. As making pictures of young children has become a very important branch of the business, a few hints on the subject will not be amiss as a guide to those interested.

Mothers who wish to have babies appear in white should dress them in light blue, pink or solferino, nicely trimmed or embroidered. All blue, or colors mixed with blue, are photographically speaking white, accordingly as the blue more or less predominates.

As children are often troublesome and restless and hard to get a picture of, and as I do not wish to let your work leave my Gallery, or be bothered with impossibilities ever which I have no control, I kindly request mothers to bear in mind that babies should be brought to the Gallery between ten and two o’clock, the earlier the better. The reasons for this are obvious, to wit:

First:– The child is not so restless, the mother is in better humor in the forenoon, the artist is pretty likely to have had his breakfast (we seldom even get dinner) and is not so impatient, hence baby is more likely to get a good picture.

Second:– A photographer wishes to make money, or at least a living, as well as other people, and don’t like to bother with babies if the gallery is full of ladies and gentlemen, who are waiting for sittings, and see no end to the baby-rattle and cry.

Third:– The light is not so powerful in the afternoon as in the morning. The acting power of the sun’s rays are stronger and more active from sunrise to noon, than from noon to sundown. It would be well for adults to bear this in mind who want sittings for themselves.

We call special attention to our Shadow Pictures, Berlin Heads, Porcelain Pictures, Victoria Cards, New Size. Old Pictures copied and painted in Oil, Water Colors, India Ink and Crayon.

Stereoscopic views of Places of Interest and Scenery of Ulster County, Views of Public Buildings and streets in Kingston. A Series of views of the Rondout Creek, Esopus Creek, Wallkill Creek with its Falls, the Esopus at Glenerie, Overlook Mountain, Shandaken Mountain Scenery, Interiors of Cement Quarries, & c. Also a full line of foreign & Miscellaneous Views.

A Large Variety of Oval and Square Frames, Velvet Cases, Passapartouts, Stereoscopes, & c.

E. LEWIS, Cor. Wall & John sts., Over Tappen, Burhans & Webster’s Store, Kingston.”

September 23, 1872, The Daily Freeman

“Lewis has again been out in the country, and has returned home with many fine views of Rosendale and High Falls. His views of the high bridge at Rosendale and the aqueduct at High Falls are especially fine. Lewis is improving in stereoscopic views; the aqueduct is one of the best pictures of lights and shadows we have ever seen.”

September 26, 1872, The Daily Freeman

“Miss Sahler’s Wax Work. Miss Sahler’s Wax Work which took the first premiums at the Horticultural Fair, will be for sale at Lewis’ Photograph Gallery, Kingston, for two weeks. She will also keep on hand stereoscopic views of the same. September 24th, 1872.”

September 16, 1873, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Lewis, the photographer, has finished a splendid full length picture of Rev. Father Dougherty in his priestly robes, which is not only a perfect likeness but a fine work of the photographic art. The picture is to be disposed of by chances, $300 worth of tickets being sold, the money thus raised to be used in purchasing books for St. Joseph’s Sunday School.”

August 13, 1873, Kingston Daily Freeman

“E. Lewis, photographer on Wall street, with his wife and daughter, have been rusticating for some time at Stamford. Mr. Lewis went fishing in Odell Lake and caught half a bushel of pickerel. He also took a trip up the Neversink; walked fourteen miles up the stream and back. The trout fishing was very good.”

October 24, 1873, The Daily Freeman

“A young lady from Shokan came to Lewis’ photograph gallery the other day. She had to leave home in a hurry, she said, because she wanted to catch the train and had to go away ‘round on account of the bridge being down. Consequently her toilet wasn’t arranged in the most complete and satisfactory manner. When she arrived at Lewis’, where she was to sit for a picture, she furnished lots of amusement for the customers waiting in the reception by undoing a vast number of packages and proceeding to get herself up in wonderful style. Of course the young ladies who were waiting for an opportunity to sit blessed her for taking up a couple of hours rigging herself.”

January 14, 1874, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Lewis, the photographer uptown, has a new lot of handsome faces finished according to his patent and hanging in a case on John street. It’s strange how often the girls whose pictures are in that case walk down that street, and what a wonder of excuses they do make to stop and look ‘just once.’”

May 30, 1874, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Lewis, the Photographer of Kingston, has secured the services of Walter C. North for this week only at his gallery, and will be pleased to see his Rondout friends and all others wishing the benefit of his extensive experience. Call and see his new styles.”

June 1, 1874, Kingston Daily Freeman

“E. Lewis has taken some fine pictures called the “Rustics.” One of a youth mounted on a velocipede is natural as life.”

June 29, 1874, The Daily Freeman

“Lewis has a new outdoor gallery of pictures. They are called rustic pictures and represent views of the sea-side, hunting and fishing scenes, with now and then a very handsome little boy or girl thrown in.”

December 18, 1874, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Lewis, the uptown Photographer, requests his patrons, all who conveniently can, to call for sittings early in the day, as it is impossible to accommodate all applicants these short days. Old Sol refuses to give light enough for negative making shortly after 3 o’clock p.m.”

The 1875 New York state census listed 43-year-old Edward Lewis living in the First Ward of the city of Kingston in Ulster County New York. Also living in the household was his 29-year-old wife Mary A. Lewis, his 4-year-old daughter Nina A. Lewis and a 22-year-old servant by the name of Bridget Mahar. Edward was listed as having been born in Chenango County, New York. He was listed with an occupation of photographer.

Corner of Wall and North Front Sts. [View of a Tailor Shop].

View of a Church in Kingston, N.Y. View of a Church in Kingston, N.Y.

May 14, 1875, The Daily Freeman

“Lewis, the photographer, went trout fishing in Little Shandaken Thursday, and caught about sixty.”

December 24, 1875, The Daily Freeman

“Just The Thing For The Holidays. Colored Enamel Photographs. These beautiful pictures represent the natural colors with a depth and richness equal to the finest colored porcelain, and at a comparatively small price. Come and see them, and those who wish sittings come early as there is no light for negative making after 3 o’clock these short days. Lewis’ Gallery, Cor. Wall & John Sts., Kingston, N.Y.”

December 28, 1875, Kingston Daily Freeman

“While Lewis the photographer on Wall street was driving his fast bay towards Flatbush Sunday afternoon, the animal in a playful mood made a spring and put one of its hind feet over the cross-bar of the wagon. Not being able to get it back the equine started to run and broke one of the shafts. Lewis reined the steed to the side of the road and the wagon overturned, which threw the occupants, Mr. and Mrs. Lewis and their little daughter, to the ground, and the horse went on, bringing up under a shed. No one was injured to any great extent.”

February 22, 1876, Kingston Daily Freeman

“E. Lewis, photographer, has taken twenty-eight negatives of the most prominent actors in the uptown Esther performance. They are fine pictures.”

October 21, 1876 advertisement, Kingston Daily Freeman

“A Card to my Patrons. Until further notice I will make card photographs in our best style for $2.00 Per Dozen, Cabinet Size $5.00. Former Price $3.00 and $6.00.

The public has had an opportunity for the last eight years to compare our photographs with the work of other photographers of this city; also New York and other cities. We abide their decision.

In reducing prices I would have my patrons bear in mind that the quality of work will remain the same as heretofore STRICTLY FIRST CLASS.

I call attention to our beautiful style of picture, the plain and colored enamel which of late we have greatly improved.

Persons wishing large, colored pictures of themselves or friends would do well to examine our work and prices and not be taken in by traveling humbugs, we Warrant All Work To Give Satisfaction.

A good stock of Picture Frames Always On Hand, and we will not be undersold.

Respectfully yours, ED. LEWIS, Kingston, N.Y., Cor. Wall & John Streets, over Dimmic & Webster’s.”

October 30, 1876, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Lewis, the uptown photographer, is making a specialty of plain and colored enamels, which are really the finest pictures a person can have taken. They are perfect and life like, and will last forever. Several military gentlemen have had pictures finished in this style by Lewis, which are truly magnificent specimens of art. A more appropriate present cannot be found, and the recipient cannot fail to prize it as something invaluable.”

November 20, 1876, Kingston Daily Freeman

“A Fine Piece of Work. We were shown some resolutions the other day on the death of John Vanderlyn, that were printed in ink by our young Kingston artist Mr. E. Youngs. We have seldom seen anything of the kind that has surpassed it in the beauty of design and originality. In the center of the resolutions was a beautiful and life-like photograph of the artist Vanderlyn, which reflects great credit on the photographer, Mr. E. Lewis of Kingston.”

December 4, 1876, Kingston Daily Freeman

“E. Lewis, photographer, has finished the pictures of the Supplies house that was blown up by gunpowder, and they are fine pictures, giving a perfect view of the premises, which will be of great benefit to the jury when the case is tried.”

March 7, 1878, Kingston Daily Freeman

“The attractive advertisement of Lewis, the photographer, elsewhere speaks for itself, and The Freeman cordially commends it to the attention of its readers. Mr. Lewis’ artistic skill needs no praises, and should receive the patronage it deserves.”

March 8, 1878, Kingston Daily Freeman

“For a Short Time Only. In making this great reduction in our prices we hesitate, not because we are unwilling to bear our share of the burden of business depression, but fear that some may think there will be a corresponding reduction in quality. Be assured, however, that we shall give you the best work that we can produce.

“Card Photographs. One Dollar Per Dozen. Cabinet Size $3 Per Dozen.

Lewis’ Photograph Gallery, Cor. Wall & John Sts., City of Kingston, N.Y.”

June 12, 1878, The Daily Freeman

“There is a very nice crayon portrait of a child, by Lewis, the uptown photographer, on exhibition in A. A. Crosby & Company’s show window on the corner of Union avenue and The Strand.”

July 1, 1878, Daily Post (Saugerties)

“Mr. Edward Lewis, the celebrated photographer of Kingston, was in town yesterday. Mr. Lewis informs us that he is turning out finer work than ever at his gallery, and is much pleased at the many calls he receives from his Saugerties customers.”

July 1, 1878, Daily Post (Saugerties)

“Lewis in Kingston is making photographs for $1 per dozen at his gallery. He don’t slight the work on account of the price either.”

July 16, 1878, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Photographs $1 per Dozen. Finely retouched heads $1.50 per dozen. Crayon, Water Color and India Ink Pictures by the best artists at bottom prices. Ed. Lewis, Kingston, N.Y.”

July 17, 1878, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Mr. Lewis, the photographer uptown, has several pictures lately taken that are as fine as can be seen anywhere along the river. One of these is a water color portrait of Mrs. William Hermance, the likeness of which is excellent, while the coloring shows the touch of an artist. There are also large pictures in crayon of Mr. and Mrs. S. Bernstein, which were given as presents to their newly married son. One great excellence of the pictures of Mr. Lewis is the graceful positions in which he places the person whose likeness is being taken.”

November 11, 1878, The Daily Freeman

“Photographs.–Twelve for $1.00. Finely retouched heads $1.50 per dozen. A fine new stock of velvet and other frames at Bottom Prices, at Lewis’ (up-town) – Kingston.”

June 23, 1879, Kingston Daily Freeman

“E. Lewis, the photographer of Wall street, has made from a small photograph enlarged a very fine life-size picture in water colors of Miss Kittie Sahler, the little daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Artemass Sahler, who died so suddenly a few months since.”

June 23, 1879, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Rev. John Johns has had a fine photograph taken of the Clinton Avenue Methodist Episcopal church and parsonage, and also a photograph of every pastor who has been associated with the church from the time of its formation in 1855, they being Revs. R. H. Chalker, F. L. Prentice, W. H. Evans, W. C. Smith, W. G. Browning, L. W. Peck, T. W. Chadwick, D. Buck, S. W. Knapp, W. H. Mickle, J. E. Gorse, A. K. Sandford and John Johns. The pictures were taken by E. Lewis of the upper part of the city, and they are framed, the church and parsonage in the center, and the photographs of the dominies in a circle around them.”

June 30, 1879, Kingston Daily Freeman

“Mr. Lewis, the photographer, has taken some very handsome pictures of the audience room of the Second Reformed church. Since the improvements, this room is one of the finest in the city.”

July 9, 1879, Kingston Daily Freeman

“A number of the graduating class of the Kingston Academy, have had their pictures taken by Lewis. The ladies being dressed in white, the photographs are a little out of the ordinary style and certainly are very fine, and the objects handsome accordingly.”

In July of 1879, B Company, 20th Battalion went to the hamlet of Phoenicia for “the purpose of camping out four days.” “While in camp Mr. E. Lewis, the Wall street photographer, will go up at the request of the company and take a number of views of the camp, of the men on parade, and also of the Tremper House, and as much of the surrounding scenery as he can. Mr. Lewis will not take a poor picture, and so if he takes any at all, it can be depended upon that it will be well worth purchasing.”[6]

To be continued next week . . .

[1] Saugerties Telegraph (Saugerties, New York). March 6, 1868.

[2] Saugerties Telegraph (Saugerties, New York). May 8, 1868.

[3] Saugerties Telegraph (Saugerties, New York). May 22, 1868.

[4] Kingston Daily Freeman (Kingston, New York). March 24, 1871.

[5] Kingston Daily Freeman (Kingston, New York). August 27, 1872.

[6] Kingston Daily Freeman (Kingston, New York). July 10, 1879.

Harry C. Earl – Sidney, New York Photographer

Sat, 19 Aug 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Harry C. Earl – Sidney, New York Photographer

Introduction

Harry C. Earl was a popular photographer at the village of Sidney in Delaware County, New York. He worked as a portrait photographer from 1921 to 1937 and then worked on the photographic staff of the Scintilla Magneto Division from 1937 until his retirement in 1954.

Portrait, Well Dressed Woman, by H. C. Earl. Author's collection.

Biography

Harry Charles Earl was born in Sidney on March 8, 1889, the son of Frederick and Josephine (Palmer) Earl.

Moses Earl, Frederick’s grandfather, and Harry’s great-grandfather, is the ancestor of many of the Earl families in the Sidney – Unadilla section. Moses was born in Connecticut in 1795 and made his way to the region as a young man. He operated a tollgate on the Catskill Turnpike near East Sidney for many years. He was married to Lucy Weed, and together they were parents of eight children. Moses Earl passed away in 1849 and is buried at the East Sidney Cemetery.

Charles Earl, Frederick’s father, and Harry’s grandfather, was born on March 10, 1828, the son of Moses Earl and Lucy Weed. He was married to Harriet Sisson, who passed away on November 17, 1891. Charles was a “lifelong and highly respected resident of Wells Bridge . . . [and] was real active for one of his age and with a great many friends.” Charles passed away in February 1916 at the home of his youngest son, Arthur Earl, about 1 1/2 miles from Wells Bridge, New York. Funeral services were held on February 19, 1916, officiated by Reverend Harwood, pastor of the Wells Bridge Baptist Church. Charles is buried at the family plot at Sand Hill Cemetery in Unadilla, New York.

Frederick Charles Earl, Harry’s father, was born on Sand Hill on March 17, 1862, the son of Charles H. Earl and Harriet (Sisson) Earl. Frederick worked as a house painter and decorator for many years, and in his later years he conducted a farm on which he had lived for 54 years. Fred C. Earl, at the age of 85, passed away in May 1947 after a short illness at his home at Sand Hill. The funeral service was conducted at his home, with Reverend Clayton Hoag officiating. He is buried at Sand Hill Cemetery in Unadilla, New York.

Josephine, Harry’s mother, was born in Laurens, New York on January 18, 1861, the daughter of John Palmer and Melinda (Reynolds) Palmer. Josephine and Fred were married on November 22, 1882, and resided at Sand Hill, New York for 42 years until her passing. Josephine was an active member of the Sand Hill Methodist Church. She passed away on April 14, 1937 after several months of heart trouble and illness. Upon her passing it was written that she was “devoted to her home, she was a kind wife and mother, and much respected in her community.”[1] The funeral service was held at her home, officiated by Reverend Robert Wood, pastor of the Wells Bridge Methodist Church. She is buried at Sand Hill Cemetery in Unadilla, New York.

Frederick and Josephine had five children together, including three sons, Lavern, Lynn and Harry, and two daughters, Hazel and Iva.

Lynn P. Earl, Harry’s brother, was an influential member of the community. He was a veteran of World War I. He was the president of the Favorite Printing Company of Sidney, New York and was the owner and publisher of The Unadilla Times and the Catskill Examiner-Recorder at Catskill, New York. He was a former director of the Unadilla National Bank. Lynn was a charter member of the Joyce-Bell Post 578 of the American Legion at Unadilla and a 50-year member of the Freedom Lodge 324 of the Free and Accepted Masons. He was member of the board of managers at The Hospital at Sidney and was a director of the Afton Fair Association. Lynn P. Earl passed away in 1974 and is buried at Evergreen Hill Cemetery in Unadilla, New York.

Lavern T. Earl, Harry’s brother, “was held in high esteem by many friends in this vicinity. He has often visited his brother in Sidney and at times has assisted him in his photographic studio, and has many friends in town who learn of his death with regret, and who extend their sympathy to the family. Mr. Earl has considerable ability as a cartoonist and had worked on several newspapers in this capacity, his last position being with the Binghamton Press.”[2] Lavern passed away from tuberculosis on May 10, 1925 at the home of his parents, Fred and Josephine Earl, at Sand Hill, New York. He is buried at Sand Hill Cemetery in Unadilla, New York.

Hazel Earl, Harry’s sister, was born on August 30, 1888 in the town of Unadilla. She married Truair Halbert (1887-1955). They had nine children together, one of whom, Truair, who was killed in battle during World War II. The Halbert’s had lived at Sidney for the 26 years prior to their passing in 1955, and had previously resided at Gilbertsville, Mount Upton and Wells Bridge. She was a member of the Sidney Methodist Church. Hazel passed away after an illness of several years at the age of 67 on October 16, 1955 and is buried at Sand Hill Cemetery in Unadilla, New York.

Iva E. Earl, Harry’s sister, was born on August 15, 1899 at Sand Hill, New York. She married William Springsteen (1891-1975), of Sand Hill, in 1918 at Wells Bridge, New York. William was the son of Maurice and Jennie (Branning) Springsteen). William worked as a self-employed cabinet maker and home decorator. Iva passed away on November 23, 1970 and is buried at Sand Hill Cemetery in Unadilla, New York.

The 1900 United States census listed 11-year-old Harry living with his parents Fred and Josephine in the town of Unadilla, Otsego County, New York. Also living in the household were Harry’s four siblings, including two brothers, Lynn and Lavern, and two sisters, Hazel and Iva. Fred was listed with an occupation of house painter.

The 1910 United States census listed 21-year-old Harry living with his parents Fred and Josephine in the village of Otego, Otsego County, New York. Also living in the household were siblings Lavern, Lynn and Iva. Fred and Lavern were listed with an occupation of house painter, while Josephine was working as a sales lady, and Harry was listed as working in a chair factory.

Harry learned the photographic industry via an apprenticeship at Oneonta, New York. Following his apprenticeship he worked as a photographer at Buffalo, New York and at Toledo, Ohio. Earl then worked for well-known photographer H. F. Smith at Syracuse, New York for seven years from around 1914 to 1920.

While living at Syracuse, on February 10, 1914, Earl married Ada May Bannister, in a ceremony officiated by Reverend Dawley. Ada was the daughter of William and Hannah (Gray) Bannister. Ada was born at Watertown, New York on October 11, 1895. During her 64 years of living at the village of Sidney, Ada was very active in the community. She was member of the Sidney United Methodist Church and the United Methodist Women. She was also a 40-year member of the Sidney Monday Club, and was a State honorary Monday Club member. She was a member of the Sidney Senior Citizens and the Sidney Historical Society. Ada Earl passed away at her home in Sidney on April 9, 1985. Her funeral was conducted on April 12 at the Sidney United Methodist Church in a service officiated by the Reverend Dwight E. Giles Sr. Along with her husband, she is buried at Sand Hill Cemetery in Unadilla, New York.

Harry and Ada had a daughter, Phyllis, who tragically died in 1920 at the age of four. “Automobiles have played a tragic part in the life of Mr. and Mrs. Earl. Shortly before they came to Sidney from Syracuse, a little daughter about three years of age was killed by an automobile. They were out driving and had stopped at the side of the road and alighted from the car. The little one ran across the road to pick some flowers. She had started to return when an automobile approached at a high speed. Mr. and Mrs. Earl shouted a warning to the little girl, but it was too late, and before they could make a move to rescue her, they saw their daughter struck and killed before their horrified eyes.”[3]

Earl moved to his hometown at the village of Sidney in 1921 to establish his own studio. With his arrival the Sidney Record wrote that “Mr. Earl has had considerable experience in his profession, and comes to Sidney with an enviable reputation as an expert in his line of work. Sidney has been without a photographer for some time, in fact since Charles Phelps’ studio was destroyed by fire some months ago, so our people will again have an opportunity of “sitting up and looking pleasant” without having to go to some neighboring village.”[4]

Upon his arrival at Sidney the local newspapers regularly carried advertisements for his studio and provided short anecdotes about his various work and activities.

February 25, 1921, The Unadilla Times

“Harry Earl, who has been making his home with his father, Fred Earl, for the winter, will open a photograph studio at Sidney the first of March. Mr. Earl was a successful photographer at Syracuse before he came to live here, and we wish him much success in his new field. Mrs. Earl will accompany her husband, but they will not move their household goods there for the present.”

March 25, 1921, The Unadilla Times

“Having opened a studio, I am now prepared to do all kinds of photographic work. Portraits, Groups, Flashlights, Enlargements, Amateur Finishing, etc. Satisfaction Guaranteed. Harry C. Earl, Main Street, Sidney, N.Y.”

March 26, 1921, Sidney Record

“Photographs. I am now ready to do all kinds of Photographic work. Children a Specialty. Satisfaction Guaranteed. H. C. Earl, 47 Main St., Sidney, N.Y.”

March 26, 1921, Sidney Record

“A new photographer has taken the place of the Elite Studio for many years conducted by C. H. Phelps and the place will be found on Main street formerly occupied by the Bassett dental offices. Mr. H. C. Earl has experience in the business entitles him to success. His work is guaranteed and prices moderate.”

November 11, 1921, The Unadilla Times

“Photographs. Special until Nov. 15. With every order of one dozen cabinet pictures, we will make without extra charge one 8x10 enlargement. Open Evenings. Phone 137-w. Harry C. Earl, Main Street, Sidney, N.Y.”

November 12, 1921, Sidney Record

“Thanksgiving Day is the home gathering day of the year. If distance prevents your home going, let your photograph carry your message of love to the old folks back home. Why not make an appointment today? H. C. Earl, 47 Main St., Sidney, N.Y.”

December 7, 1921, Sidney Record

“X-mas Remembrances. A dozen photographs will solve a dozen puzzling gift problems. Telephone 137-W for appointment. No settings made after December 15, for X-mas delivery. H. C. Earl, Phone 137-W. Sidney, New York.”

January 4, 1922, Sidney Enterprise

“Remembrances. Have us take a picture of the young ones. They will bring back pleasant memories of the small tots when they have grown up. Satisfaction guaranteed. H. C. Earl, Phone 137-W. Sidney, N.Y.”

February 11, 1922, Sidney Record

“Bear In Mind. We do picture framing correctly and satisfactory. We have a splendid showing of mouldings and easel frames and our prices are reasonable. H. C. Earl, Portrait Studio. Phone 137-w. 47 Main St., Sidney, N.Y.”

April 15, 1922, Sidney Record

“H. C. Earl. Sidney is fortunate in having a good photographer, the real kind. His first year’s work was completed April 1st, and his work has given excellent satisfaction, exact harmony of tone and at very moderate prices. No better work in leading city studios. Give your home men first choice. H. C. Earl is one of them.”

June 24, 1922, Sidney Record

“H. C. Earl photographic studio on Main street, is prepared to promptly fill all orders for graduation photos, singly or in group. Utmost care employed to give none but high-grade work at moderate prices. Photos by night or day, indoors or outdoors with good results guaranteed.”

On October 18, 1922, two D & H freight trains collided at the railroad crossing in Sidney, New York. Engineer William Toal, of Binghamton, was killed in the wreck. The Sidney Record described the scene.

“. . . dawn revealed a wreck of unusually spectacular features, two of the wrecked cars pyramided 50 feet high, overtopping the signal tower, which tower itself very narrowly escaped total destruction, escaping by a margin of less than two feet . . .

In railroad life there are wrecks, and again there are other wrecks, two kinds, the common every day wreck and the other, the kind of wreck that makes other far away towns sit up and take notice. Wednesday morning’s wreck in Sidney belonged to the take notice classification . . .

Two heavy engines had side-swiped and reduced to total wreckage, while two freight cars were loftily perched 50 feet in the air, high above the signal tower at the junction of the O. & W. and D. & H. railroads. The engines were a mass of twisted, interlocking labyrinth of steel and iron, with hissing steam adding to the terror of the scene.”[5]

Photographer Earl visited the site of the wreck that morning and took pictures of the scene. Some of the pictures were published in the local newspapers. It was later reported that Earl sold over 4,000 photographic views of the disaster.

In January 1923 Earl sold the developing part of his photographic business to C. B. Conrow, who “has had considerable experience in the line of developing photos for amateurs in this section and his work is sure to please. His office will be in his home on Maple avenue.”[6]

October 27, 1923, Sidney Record

“There’s another Sidney business man of three years service in Sidney, who by close attention to work and satisfactory results bids fair to remain many more successful years in this community. We refer to H. C. Earl, Main street artist-photographer. It makes no difference as between night time or day time, his photographic work gives perfect clear and accurate results and at prices within the means of all. Sometimes when too late bitter are the regrets that a photograph was not taken. Don’t get caught that way, leave no regrets in your family but secure the shadow before the substance fades and H. C. Earl is just the man to secure the shadow and send you on your way rejoicing.”

October 27, 1923, Sidney Record

“Photograph Free. Until Nov. 1st we will give a large portrait (8x10 inches) with every order of $5.00 or more. It is none too early to have your Xmas photographs made. For an appointment Phone 137-w. The Early Studio, Sidney, N.Y. Easel Frames, Colored Pictures.”

December 8, 1923, Sidney Record

“Greet Your Friends on Xmas Morning with Your Photograph. Have them made now and avoid the rush. For an appointment Phone 137-w. The Earl Studio, Sidney, N.Y. Easel Frames, Colored Pictures.”

February 2, 1924, Sidney Record

“What is the most interesting age? When the child takes the first step or starts for school? Confirmation or Graduation? To the Mother every stage and age is interesting. Every stage and age in the Child’s Lie may be marked with a Photograph which in after years will prove even more interesting than can now be contemplated. The Earl Studio, Sidney, N.Y. Phone for an Appointment, 137-w.”

March 1, 1924, Sidney Record

“‘Once there was a little boy’ – so the story book reads, and how rapidly he is growing into manhood. Have you had a really good photograph of him taken recently? Your children have a right to a photograph as they are today. Bring the kiddies to our studio. The Earl Studio, Sidney, N.Y.”

May 3, 1925, Sidney Record

“Be Photographed On Your Birthday. Surprise the family and your friends. Your photograph will prove the most welcome of gifts – and the most enduring. Nothing gives such complete satisfaction and lasting happiness as a pleasing portrait. The Earl Studio, Sidney, N.Y.”

May 13, 1924, Sidney Record

“At the H. C. Earl Studio on Main street, may be seen a fine photographic group of the Sidney High School Delta Gamma of 1923, which clearly demonstrates Mr. Earl’s ability as an artist. This framed grouping makes an excellent photographic study, bringing the features of the Delta Gamma Society into clear relief. The framed picture is to be forwarded to the National Historical Department of the D. G. Society.”

September 27, 1924, Sidney Record

“MacDonald Hose Co. No. 2, Thursday evening, 25th, hope to meet as many friends as possible at their company dance and cordially invite all who possibly can come to do so. These occasions are always most enjoyable. Photographer Earl recently took a fine group picture of the thirty members of the company in uniform, the boys make a sturdy looking band of ‘smoke eaters.’”

November 22, 1924, Sidney Record

“H. C. Earl. Photographer. Photographs made anytime, anyplace. Phone 137-w. Sidney, N.Y.”

February 21, 1925, Sidney Record

“The Earl Studio. All Kinds of Photographic Work; Picture Framing.”

January 31, 1925, Sidney Record

“Photographer Earl took some fine views of the T. E. on Mt. Moses, very well worth preserving for future reference.”

October 15, 1925, Sidney Enterprise

“Photographer Harry C. Earl has returned from a week spent in New York on business and attending the annual meeting of photographers. Artificial lighting was one of the subjects earnestly considered by the convention. Mr. Earl has his studio artificially lighted by the latest methods and can successfully take a picture at any hour of the day or night, regardless of weather conditions, the old-time bogey of the photograph studio.”

October 31, 1925, Sidney Record

“Your Photograph. The one gift that always pleases. Now is the best time to have your sitting. You are not so busy now and we are not so busy as we will be next month. Better to come in October than to be disappointed in December. A deposit at time of sitting will hold your photograph until Christmas time. Make your appointment today. Phone 137-W. The Earl Studio, Sidney, N.Y.”

April 17, 1926, Sidney Record

“On the occasion of the banquet sponsored by Mr. Edgar A. Gibson, of this village, together with representatives of the Celotex company, at the Hotel De Cumber, 7th inst., a flashlight was taken of those present by photographer H. C. Earl. Mr. Earl gave a fine example of the thing called “Service.” One-half hour after the flash-light was taken Mr. Earl returned with the mounted photograph delivered picture to Celotex representatives, much to their surprise as well as pleasure.”

June 26, 1926, Sidney Record

“The Sidney Fire Department, always attentive to duty, next Monday evening, 28th, will renew its regular fire drills. These drills are highly important to prompt service in case of fire. The Department looks well in the new uniforms, consisting of red shirt, blue caps, white trousers. Last Sunday afternoon photographer Earl on the Riverside ball ground, took several very fine photographs of the firemen, one of which will be presented to the Chenango Firemen’s Association, which held a convention Monday night at Brisben, N.Y.”

In June 1927 Harry Earl suffered severe injuries as the result of a car accident that took place while driving from Sidney to Syracuse. At first it was feared that Harry would not survive the accident, but the quick actions of his wife and a friend, who were also in the car, as well as the fast response from the ambulance, led to his survival and eventual recovery.

“When about two miles out of Syracuse on a road with which Mr. Earl, who was used to driving, was unacquainted, was a sharp turn with a large tree at the side of the road near the center of the curve. Before Mr. Earl could successfully make the turn the car crashed into the tree.

Mrs. Earl and Mr. Steinwinter were catapulted through the top of the car and landed in a garden adjoining the highway. Mr. Earl was not so fortunate. He was pinned between the tree and the badly crushed car.

Mrs. Earl and Mr. Steinwinter were able to lift the car enough to extricate him. It was seen that he was very badly injured and an ambulance was summoned. This quickly arrived, accompanied by a surgeon, and Mr. and Mrs. Earl and Mr. Steinwinter were removed to the Crouse-Irving hospital.

Examination showed that Mr. Earl had received a fractured right arm; the left shoulder blade was broken, his upper jaw bone and nose were fractured and four ribs also broken. He had also sustained a bad cut on one leg, requiring several stitches to close, and his condition was very critical, and but little encouragement as to his recovery has as yet been given by the hospital staff.”[7]

Friends and family visited Earl at Syracuse during his recovery. A testimonial signed by 110 people from Sidney was presented to him at the hospital in Syracuse. Within a month Earl was back at the family home on River Street to continue recuperating, and within a few months he was back at work.

August 13, 1927, Sidney Record

“Photographer H. C. Earl is making gradual but slow recovery from the recent automobile accident in Syracuse but at the same time work continues at the Main street studio with the able assistance of Mrs. Earl and all orders receive immediate attention and friends are urged to reserve their orders for the holidays for the Earl studio and it will be greatly appreciated. Anyone is liable to get a hard rap at any time and nothing helps more than the cheer of friends at such times.”

November 3, 1927, Sidney Enterprise

“The Delta Gamma sorority of the Sidney school initiated the Halloween season with a Kid Party, held at the Community House last Thursday evening. There was a big attendance of the young ladies, who were clothed as young children. They had a very pleasant evening which was concluded by Photographer Harry Earl taking a picture of the party, in their cute little costumes.”

October 16, 1930, Sidney Enterprise

“Free! 1 8x10 Photograph With Every Dozen Pictures Until November 1st. You are not as busy – we are not as busy – as we will be later. STOP in now and make your appointment for a sitting and “Avoid the Holiday Rush.” The Earl Studio, Phone 137-W, Sidney, N.Y.”

November 30, 1933, Sidney Enterprise

“Christmas Special. Six 5x7 Photographs mounted in attractive folders for $5.00. This special is not good after December 9th. Make your appointment early! The Earl Studio, Phone 69-J, Sidney, New York.”

In 1930 Earl attended the prestigious National Photographers School at Winona Lake, Indiana. The school, which had enrolled 85 photographers that year, included students from all over the United States. Operated by the Professional Photographers of America (PPA), the officially named Winona International School of Professional Photography held summer classes at Winona Lake each year from 1921 to 1984, when it moved to a new campus at Mount Prospect, Illinois. In 1994 the school moved again, this time to Atlanta, Georgia.

In 1937 Earl sold his portrait studio and equipment to the partnership of Henderson and Young, “two Syracuse men who come to Sidney highly recommended as expert photographers.”[8] Within a year, newspaper advertisements showed the business being operated only by Henderson, under the name of the Henderson Studio.

After selling his studio, Earl went to work as the official photographer for the Scintilla Magneto Division of the Bendix Aviation Corporation. Earl had previous experience with the company, having “made the photographs for the first manual of magnetos in 1925 when Scintilla was still under the ownership of Brown-Boveri Company.”[9]

The Scintilla Division had relocated from New York City to Sidney in the mid-1920s with approximately 15 employees. The company rapidly grew in size, employing over 4,000 people by 1942, and 8,600 people during the boom years of World War II. Today, the company, after many mergers and corporate takeovers, continues to operate at Sidney as the Amphenol Aerospace Company.

As part of the 1939 World’s Fair held at Queens, New York, Delaware County was to be represented in the New York State building through a photo mural exhibit of the region, including exhibits representing the industrial and agricultural life of the county and its historical background. Earl’s photographic work was included among the 26 pictures chosen to represent Delaware County.

While working at the Scintilla Magneto Division, Earl served as the plant photographer for The Scintillator, the company publication. The Scintillator was first published in 1943 and was mailed monthly to the homes of more than 4,600 Scintilla employees. There was also an outside mailing to business people in the community and other industrial manufacturers. In 1953 The Scintillator won a national award as determined by the American Association of Industrial Editors. The focus of the award was to encourage plant publications to promote a register and vote campaign.

Harry C. Earl retired from the Scintilla Magneto Division on September 30, 1954 after 17 1/2 years of service, and after a combined 45 years of working as a portrait and commercial photographer.

Legacy

Harry C. Earl had a long and distinguished career as a photographer, which included 34 years at the village of Sidney. Through his popular studio, he photographed thousands of residents of the village and the surrounding region between 1921 and 1937. He then worked at a critically important business, the Scintilla Magneto Division, as it supported World War II on the home front through its production of highly regarded aviation and military products.

Harry C. Earl passed away after a long illness at 65 years of age, only months after his retirement. He died at the hospital in Sidney on Monday, November 15, 1954. Funeral services were held on November 18, 1954 at the C. H. Landers Chapel, with Reverend Roger B. Glazier, pastor of the Methodist Church, officiating. Earl, along with his wife, his parents, his grandparents and several other family members, is buried at Sand Hill Cemetery in Unadilla, New York.

[1] “Mrs. Fred Earl.” Sidney Enterprise (Sidney, New York). April 22, 1937.

[2] “Lavern T. Earl.” Sidney Enterprise (Sidney, New York). May 14, 1925.

[3] “Pinned Between Tree and His Badly Smashed Auto.” Sidney Enterprise (Sidney, New York). June 16, 1927.

[4] “New Photographer.” Sidney Record (Sidney, New York). February 23, 1921.

[5] “D. & H. Trains Crash in the Sidney Yard.” Sidney Record (Sidney, New York). October 21, 1922.

[6] “Amateur Work.” Sidney Enterprise (Sidney, New York). January 10, 1923.

[7] “Pinned Between Tree and His Badly Smashed Auto.” Sidney Enterprise (Sidney, New York). June 16, 1927.

[8] “Local Photographer Enters Magneto Plant.” Sidney Enterprise (Sidney, New York). March 4, 1937.

[9] “Funeral Thursday for Harry Earl.” Sidney Record – Enterprise (Sidney, New York). November 18, 1954.

B. E. Pudney – Sidney, New York Postcard Publisher

Sat, 12 Aug 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Introduction

B. E. Pudney was a prolific publisher of postcards depicting the scenes of Delaware County, New York and the surrounding region. Located at the village of Sidney, he was also a well-known businessman, at times operating a clothing store, a bicycle shop, a stationery store, an automobile garage and a famous music store.

Main Street, looking North, Sidney, N.Y. Author's collection.

Biography

Herbert Eugene Pudney, more commonly known as Bert or B. E., was born on February 24, 1868 at Sherburne, Chenango County, New York. He was the son of Denison E. Pudney (1823-1907) and Betsey Cordelia (Cole) Pudney (1825-1913).

According to the family genealogy, the Pudney family in the United States can be traced back to John Pudney (c. 1636-1712), who resided at Salem, Massachusetts in 1662.[1]^,[2] He married Judith Cooke (b. 1643), daughter of Henry Cooke, on November 18, 1662 at Salem. John Pudney worked as a husbandman, or farmer, and eventually acquired, according to his will, a house, farm, orchard and about forty acres of land, which he then left to his son Jonathan Pudney, of Salem.[3] The surname Pudney, or Putney in earlier days, can be traced even further back to the parish of Putney in the County of Surrey, England.

Denison E. Pudney, B. E.’s father, was first married to Frances E. Royce on September 8, 1847. She passed away at Sherburne on December 7, 1853 and is buried at Sherburne Quarter Cemetery in Sherburne, Chenango County, New York.

Denison and Betsey were married several years later on March 4, 1857 at Butternuts, Oswego County, New York. Denison worked as a farmer in Sherburne. Betsey was born on March 4, 1825 at Gilbertsville, New York. Her father, Richard Cole, was one of the pioneer settlers of Otsego County. On her mother’s side, she was descendant of soldiers of the American Revolution, for which “she was proud and often referred to it in her later life.”[4] She was a resident of Sherburne for 52 years. She passed away at Manchester, Connecticut on August 6, 1913. Both Denison and Betsey are buried at Sherburne Quarter Cemetery in Sherburne, Chenango County, New York.

The 1870 United States census listed 2-year-old Herbert living in the household of his parents Denison and Cordelia B. at Sherburne in Chenango County, New York. Also listed as living in the household were Herbert’s siblings, Walter, Emma, William, Frank and his twin-brother Herman. Denison was listed with an occupation of farmer and 17-year-old Walter was listed with an occupation of farm laborer.

The 1880 United States census listed 12-year-old Herbert living with his parents Denison and Cordelia in Sherburne in Chenango County, New York. Also living in the household were Herbert’s siblings, William, Frank, and Herman. Denison was listed with an occupation of farmer, while Herbert and Herman were listed “at school.”

Getting an early start in the business world, Pudney began his work in the mercantile industry as a clerk in 1884 at the young age of 16. By the late 1880s Pudney was operating as a clothing dealer on the Exchange Block at the village of Oxford in Chenango County, New York. The business, called Pudney & Brooksbank, was operated in partnership with Robert Brooksbank. This partnership only lasted a short time, and was dissolved in 1891. However, the business continued to operate as Brooksbank & Son.

Pudney then quickly established in 1891 the firm of Pudney and Freeman, in partnership with Edmund B. Freeman, who “is an active business man, well known in Sherburne and vicinity.” The business, located at Oxford, was also known as The Corner Store. Pudney and Freeman also opened a branch clothing store at Gilbertsville in 1891.

Sidney Record. November 25, 1893.

On September 1, 1893 the Pudney and Freeman partnership opened a new branch store at the village of Sidney, Delaware County, New York. It was reported that the partnership had taken a three-year lease of the large store on the north side of the Bennett block. With the store opening, Pudney and Freeman intended “ to carry a stock of goods that will draw customers from a large radius of territory . . . The firm is blessed with a good block of capital and along with it they have push and energy. They will sell the best grade of goods at very low prices, and by fair dealing they will endeavor to win a share of patronage from our village people as well as those of the surrounding county.”[5] The partnership was dissolved after a few years as of April 1, 1895.

After the dissolution of the Pudney and Freeman partnership, Pudney then quickly went into business for himself at Sidney, continuing to operate a clothing and shoe store. During the 1890s Pudney, who was an avid cyclist, also began selling bicycles, specializing in the sales of Victor bicycles, a product of the pioneering Overman Wheel Company of Chicopee Falls, Massachusetts. Pudney was the exclusive agent for the Overman company for Otsego, Delaware and Chenango counties. He would open additional bicycle shops at Edmeston in 1900 and in the Peck building at Gilbertsville in 1901.

In 1894 Pudney was one of 23 charter members who established the Sidney Cycle Club. Arthur Bird was selected president of the club, Miss Lottie Johnson as Vice President and Pudney as Captain.

Pudney and his wife were considered to be among the best cyclists in the region. In 1894 the Pudney’s “rode on their wheels to Oneonta last Monday, returning the same day, – a distance of 45 miles, heavy roads and big head winds.”[6] In 1895 they rode from Sidney to Cooperstown, a distance of 45 miles, in six hours. They also rode from Sidney to Albany, a distance of 104 miles, in 15 hours. The Sidney Record also wrote of their notable long-distance ride to the Adirondacks.

“Bicycle riders who ride 75 miles per day for four consecutive days are few in the land. We refer to those of the male persuasion, and when this can be said of a lady rider, it is a record worth noting. Mrs. B. E. Pudney and her husband took a trip together to the Adirondacks some time ago. The distance from Sidney is 300 miles, and the trip was made in four days, some of the roads in the northern part of the State being the worse that the sun ever shone upon.”[7]

Sarah, Bert’s wife, “who by the way owns the handsomest lady bicycle in town, enjoys the reputation of being one of the best long distance riders in the State. Mrs. Pudney is a graceful rider and will readily cover a distance of 75 miles in one day.”[8]

Pudney received “his first Victor at a cost of $122.50; weight forty-four pounds. It had two-inch pneumatic tires, which were not guaranteed and were recommended only as an experiment.” Annual sales increased steadily over the next decade, with Pudney selling 8 bicycles in 1890; 14 in 1891; 26 in 1892; 44 in 1893; 60 in 1894; 80 in 1895; 105 in 1896; 128 in 1897; 144 in 1898; and 160 in 1899. By 1900 the Overman Wheel Company was out of business due to increased competition and the financial impact of a devastating fire that did much damage to the company’s manufacturing plant the year prior.

Sidney Record. May 1, 1897.

In describing his early bicycle business, “Mr. Pudney points out that the actual amount of cash received does not increase from year to year to any considerable extent. In other words, the decrease in prices about keeps pace with the increase in sales. Were it not for the sale of accessories he believes that selling bicycles alone would not pay store rent. He believes that no man can conduct a profitable business without repairing, renting, exchanging and selling supplies.”[9]

As part of promoting his business Pudney would sponsor bicycle races in the region. One such race in 1899 followed a course from the starting line at the Unadilla House to the finish line at the fountain in Sidney. The course was about 4 1/2 miles and was covered in about 14 minutes, 15 seconds. First prize, a diamond pin, was won by Frank French, of Sidney; second prize, bicycle sundries, was won by Homer Travis, of Sidney; and third prize, bicycle sundries, was won by E. J. Pratt.

Pudney served as the manager and trainer of the Barnes Racing Team, which utilized bikes from the Barnes Cycle Company of Syracuse, New York. In 1897 “a splendid picture” of the Barnes Racing Team was engraved and published in an issue of the Barnes White Flyer Tips, a publication with a circulation of 1,000,000 copies.

With his far-reaching reputation as a bicycle dealer and enthusiast, Pudney was visited in 1907 by “the world famous bicycle long distance rider, Fred J. Titus, of Middletown, Ohio.” “Mr. Titus holds a record of 27 miles in 60 minutes, and has also covered a distance of 10 miles in 20 minutes and 58 seconds. He came to Sidney to see Mr. Pudney, the leading bicycle dealer about here, who gave him a handsome order for racycles of the Miami model. Go down on our fair association track next summer and you will see Miami lightning describing circles around the race course at a John R. Gentry gait.”[10]

In 1899 the Sidney Record wrote that “We take pleasure in recommending Mr. Pudney as the leading bicycle dealer of this section of the state. He sold in 1898, 160 bicycles. He will sell at both retail and wholesale, bicycles and sundries. In the rear of the store he has a finely equipped repair shop.”[11]

In a separate issue the Sidney Record wrote more extensively about Pudney’s bicycle operations.

“Bert E. Pudney. While it may with truth be asserted that there is nothing new under the sun, and while upon the other hand it is held that the most modern convenience known as the bicycle, in its origin can be traced to antiquity, it is equally true that for perfection in this machine the public must look to today. And for a perfect wheel, it is necessary to go to Bert E. Pudney who occupies commodious premises in the Sidney house block and carries a large stock of the highest grade bicycles, those which have gained great popularity among all riders, such wheels as the cyclist terms perfection. Mr. Pudney also deals in cycle accessories, tools and supplies.

The rear of the store is equipped for repairing, enameling, brazing and vulcanizing. The business is both wholesale and retail and the advantages of cash or installment payments are put forth to customers.

Mr. Pudney has been identified with this business for 9 years and is energetic and ambitious to make his business the largest of its kind in this section. And the manner in which he is now working foreshadows the result he aims to attain. In addition to his bicycle interest he also carries on a general merchant tailoring business. Mr. Pudney is an enthusiastic cyclist, he is popular among his customers and adheres to the rule of commercial probity.”[12]

During his time in the bicycle business Pudney described himself as “a cycle dealer . . . [who enjoyed] the rush of a hustling cycle trade, selling, exchanging, renting and repairing, [taking] pleasure in washing the black oil of the cycle bearings off his hands with the use of gasoline and a slight touch of soap . . .” In the early 1900s Pudney exited the bicycle industry, selling off his entire remaining stock of bicycles and sundries.

Over the years Pudney expanded his business beyond just clothing and bicycles. In 1901 Pudney purchased the extensive stationery and newspaper business of Albert Birdsall at Sidney. He also bought out Harry Gross and acquired the exclusive agency to sell the “celebrated pianos” of the Babcock Brothers. That same year he would also open a piano and music store that sold just about anything related to music including phonographs, records, musical instruments, sheet music and much more. Expanding yet again, store products included stationery, school supplies, books, post cards, sporting goods, fishing equipment, shot guns and rifles, sewing machines and artists’ materials.

In response to his many businesses the Sidney Record wrote in 1901 that “B. E. Pudney has enough irons in the fire to keep him busy twenty-three hours out of twenty-four . . . Mr. Pudney deserves to succeed.”[13] His varied businesses took on the long name of the Sidney News Company, Cycle and Music Store.

On May 1, 1906 Pudney opened a branch music store at the village of Delhi. He purchased the Edison Phonograph stock and business of W. E. Finch, and advertised that he would carry a full line of Edison Phonograph goods at his new store. In September 1906 Pudney also bought the Stanley newspaper sale business at Delhi.

In October, 1908, “our enterprising, hustling merchant, B. E. Pudney, this week, purchased of J. E. Harper, (his leading competitor,) his entire stock of Edison phonograph records, books and postcards. This move on Mr. Pudney’s part at once places his Delhi business clearly in the lead.”[14] In 1910 Pudney would sell his Delhi music store, including stock of phonographs, records, music, books, cards and stationery to Carl D. Williams.

Pudney published a popular series of postcards that depicted the regional scenes in and around Sidney, New York. The postcards are still generally available today on various internet web sites. Within the “Historic Catskills Photographers” section of this website you can view a small sample of his work.

Masonville, N.Y., View N. W. From South Road. Author's collection.

New Iron Bridge, Sidney, N.Y. Author's collection.

County House, Delhi, N.Y. Author's collection.

Mill Dam and Falls, East Sidney, N.Y. Author's collection.

By 1906 Pudney’s post card business was thriving. “B. E. Pudney is making considerable stir among the Post Card dealers, as carrying both in Delhi and Sidney Music stores the largest and finest stocks in this State. The cards are the best that can be bought and are sold at popular prices. Nearly all are of the famous German gelatine photo work.”[15] By November 1906 Pudney advertised of “34,000 new views of Sidney just received at the Sidney Music Store. Mr. Pudney now has over 100 different views of Sidney. Theses cards are going over the whole world telling of our beautiful village, advantages, etc.”[16]

In 1907 the local newspaper noted that “very nice postal cards, with views of Floral Park, cor. River and Grand, can be obtained at Pudney’s. These excellent views are well worth preserving, especially when one considers the vast improvement which the park represents.”[17]

Showing the popularity of postcards in the early 1900s, it was reported in the local paper in 1908 that Pudney had ordered 140,000 postal cards of local views. Of the 140,000 cards, 23,000 were of Sidney views, 7,000 of East Sidney and 5,000 of Masonville. The cards were to be manufactured in Leipsic, Germany. In 1909 the local newspaper noted Pudney’s “post card department with stocks invoicing $2,000.00 in Delhi and Sidney stores, the most of which are local views. All are able to fine in the many card racks a choice that for variety excels.”[18]

In 1908 Pudney’s store had in stock “over 10,000 Christmas and New Year’s cards that he sells at one cent each, or 90 cts per 100. His holiday offerings are very attractive in all specialties. Mr. Pudney is very liberal and prompt in his dealings and has established a fine business upon a permanent basis.”[19]

In 1908 Pudney advertised the sale of postcards for 3 cents each, or two for 5 cents. A December 1908 sale offered Christmas and New Year’s cards for one cent each, or 90 cents per 100. In 1909 Pudney added new postcards with local views that were taken by Sidney photographer C. H. Phelps; these postcards were sold for two for 5 cents. By 1913, as the postcard craze was fading, Pudney advertised that postcards were selling for 5 cents per dozen.

In 1909, “B. E. Pudney moved his store, after fourteen years of occupancy of the Sidney house block, to the business center of Main Street, where, in a brick block with a large piano and music department connected by two arches with the main store, he is able to display all the goods in different departments, each to good advantage. News department, post cards, books, stationery, sporting goods, phonographs, music, pianos and organs. In each department Mr. Pudney has tried and is trying for the mutual benefit of all to excel. To a great extent his stores now surpass anything in greater New York.”[20]

The 1910 United States census listed the widowed, 42-year-old Pudney as living in the village of Sidney in Delaware County, New York. Pudney was listed with an occupation of “Retail merchant, stationery and books.” Around this time, for a few years, Pudney also operated a branch music store at the village at Delhi. He later operated a branch store at Oneonta for a few years.

In 1911 Pudney partnered with George Webb to open an automobile garage at the village of Sidney. The garage, to be managed by Webb, was located in a building behind Pudney’s Main Street music store. They opened a sales room between the Yager and Spencer blocks of Sidney for the purpose of exhibiting cars and auto supplies. This portion of the operation was to be managed by Pudney.[21]

The following year, in 1912, Pudney “closed one of the largest automobile contracts ever made in this section for a large portion of Delaware, Chenango and Otsego counties for the “Elmore.” This is important to those wishing automobiles, as this car being exclusive in the use of a valveless motor, having less wearing parts than any other engine, speaks for itself. That Mr. Pudney, after spending months in investigating automobiles should have decided and secured the “Elmore” is a matter of congratulation. This will help to put Sidney on the map as a center for automobiles, supplies, etc.”[22] Pudney’s automobile business likely did not last long as it was reported that the garage was rented to another party by the summer of 1913.

In 1914, after 14 years of ownership, Pudney sold his interests in the book, stationery and sporting goods portions of his store to J. H. Rushton, a former bookkeeper with the Sidney Novelty corporation. Pudney retained the rights to the music portion of the business, which he continued to operate. In addition to the main location at Sidney, a 1916 advertisement noted that Pudney was operating branch locations at New Berlin, Milford, Delhi, Owego, Oneonta and Earlville.

Pudney actively supported his country during World War 1. Locally, “he has taken an active part in Sidney’s patriotic efforts being a member of the local military company and on various committees in war activities and an energetic worker in every instance.”[23] Between January and June 1918 he gave 175 different speeches to the public on various war issues. One 1917 newspaper article even affectionately referred to Pudney as “Sidney’s Four-Minute-Man” for his talks on thrift stamps and war saving certificates.

While beyond the age of service for the Army, Pudney also volunteered for the U.S. Army Y. M. C. A. service. He served at Camp Dix, New Jersey, on transport ships between the United States and France, and overseas in Europe for approximately six months from January to June 1919. He made several cross-Atlantic trips to Europe. While overseas, he traveled through the battlefields and the ruined cities of northern France.

Oath of Allegiance, Bert E. Pudney, U. S. Passport Application, 1919.

Due to his service Pudney closed out all his store branch locations by the end of 1918, leaving only the Sidney store in operation. The Earlville location closed in July; New Berlin closed in August; and the Delhi and Oneonta locations closed in September. The Milford and Owego locations were closed before December, 1918. His wife ran the remaining Sidney store while he was overseas.

E. F. Van Horne, Pudney’s direct supervisor while at Camp Dix, offered generous praise about his service.

“The first few months of his [Pudney] service were under my direct supervision, and as an educational worker I had none on my staff during my more than two years of service who did a better or more far-reaching piece of work than Mr. Pudney. He was at all times indefatigable in his efforts to promote the program as set forth by those in charge of the Educational Department. His main idea and controlling motive, as I observed his work, was, “Help the Boys.” He made friends of all he met and all liked him. At all times he was courteous and pleasant, and his cheerful “Good morning” made the day brighter for many a homesick boy, and his kindly “Good night” helped them to bed with lighter hearts. His smile was contagious and there was no place for gloom in his presence, and he smiled at times when it was hard to smile. Mr. Pudney never failed to receive most generous and heartfelt applause when he addressed the boys – a thing that many renowned speakers failed to receive.”[24]

Chaplain Paul J. A. Leduc also commended Pudney for his efforts on the U. S. S. Montana, an armored cruiser of the United States Navy. During World War I the U. S. S. Montana served as a convoy escort, and after the war had ended, the ship was repurposed to serve as a transport ship, taking American soldiers back home from the battlefields of Europe. The U. S. S. Montana made six round-trips to and from Europe, returning 8,800 American soldiers home.

“Gentlemen: When your representative, Overseas Secretary Bert Pudney, went down the gang plank of this vessel he carried with him the esteem and the love of all on board.

Mr. Pudney was not only a hard, willing worker, he was also a good cheerful shipmate. We all regretted to lose him and now that he is gone we want to express to his superiors our great appreciation for the work he performed here among us.

As a Chaplain, I am greatly indebted to Mr. Pudney for his kind assistance in helping me to put across my religious and morale work.

The “Y” has done the most possible for the officers and men of this vessel. Renewing the expression of our gratitude and thanking you in particular for what you did in the days when I was alone to do all the welfare work, I remain

Gratefully yours, Paul J. A. Leduc.” [25]

Upon his return from Europe, Pudney lectured on his experiences in various churches and nearby towns. He later wrote in the South New Berlin Bee about how his time in Europe taught him the need for perseverance.

“Carry On. On the battle fields of the world’s war, as the soldiers of England were dying, their last message to their comrades was Carry On. So to us there is a message left, Carry On. Sickness, sorrow, death, comes among us. A message is left as a force, a heritage that calls out to us. Take from the best we have left and with it Carry On. B. E. Pudney.”[26]

Pudney authored in 1919 a lengthy opinion article titled “Autocracy’s Guilt” as part of an advertisement for his business. The article provides some valuable insight as to Pudney’s thoughts on business, capitalism and politics.

“Visit European battlefields and devastated cities. Look upon beautiful landscapes caused by the God of War. Here and there great cemeteries stand by the side of the graves of those that you once knew in your homeland.

Realize deeply that all of this was caused directly through military power in Germany becoming Autocratic, domineering, absolutely selfish. For half a century the German people had become subservient to the military, when it was utterly crushed. The people’s will had been enslaved to their great War God and Kaiser. Then other fields must be theirs over in the battlefields of Europe and defeat. It took four years to crush this Autocracy. Right conquered, as it always and ever will.

Hew to the line and let the chips fall where they will. Autocracy of wealth and capitalism have learned their lesson and they know full well that their power and influence is subservient to the government and the people for the good of all. That profiteer who alone and in combines attempts or succeeds in cornering food and necessities of life is an autocrat and those who help him to finance it as capitalists are traitors to a people, and should be and they are treated as criminals.

All efforts of autocratic capitalist wealth to increase their wealth in this way should be met and stopped. When the capitalists or a stock bond holder attempts to make unreasonable profit by using his power to hold back labor from its honest due, then he has started an autocracy that must be met and made to yield to the good of all, all else advancing yet six per cent in the legal interest rate. On approved security there is millions to loan. Sugar would have been twenty-five cents per pound, flour would have been twenty-five dollars a barrel. Who held this down? Uncle Sam. No autocracy of wealth can exist with us, for Uncle Sam is awake on his job.

Autocracy organized labor, for years holding sway in our land, for years has had the sympathy and confidence of American people. When our nation was forced into war and in her greatest stress, in a crisis as it were, organized labor issued from its central stronghold an ultimatum to Congress and President that unless certain papers and bills were signed at 10:00 a.m. on a certain date, the wages highest in our history, hours of day’s labor the shortest.

When all Europe’s world was in danger of Autocracy of Germany’s military, we ourselves became slaves of German powers, they would stop every railroad, every factory and every dock and every ship as far as possible. For a moment in its crisis our Congress and President weakened – the bill was signed. Never again. This was Autocracy of the most dreaded kind. Four million members of labor unions throughout the United States became discredited by it. Because of this unreasonable spirit of demand or we strike, collective bargaining of bodies of men to be controlled by leaders who can do with them as majority wishes, practically making slaves of the minority, must become illegal and unlawful.

Uncle Sam may have been held up for the moment, but Uncle Sam is now awake. No autocracy of wealth, however combined, no autocracy of organized labor, is to tell him where he can get off or get on. All must succeed to exist for the common good or go down to defeat, same as Germany’s autocracy military has, the same as all autocracy. Turn back the scroll of history, my reader, and from the world’s beginning learn thereby that disaster comes to all who for selfish personal reasons start out to take from others that which belongs to them.

The writer wants success to come to labor and capital alike when they are in the right, on the other hand, just punishment and defeat when either or both are in the wrong.

After the great Roosevelt was elected President of the U. S., he was invited to a banquet by certain labor organizations. One of the speakers said now the doors of the White House will swing open easier for us. Immediately Roosevelt was on his feet, exclaiming “Yes, but just as easy for the capitalists.” There should be no distinction. The laborer is a capitalist. Neither gets more out of life than the other. Hand in hand they must go, realizing this, that they exist for the common good of all; that labor unions’ membership totals only four million, so-called capitalists much less; that Uncle Sam clothes and feeds over a hundred and ten million of his own people, as well as other millions. Prosperity of the richest and best kind is ours and the great middle classes, which represent over a hundred million, will have the final say in this grand republic of ours.

The best in capitalistic forces, the best in organized labor, will come to the front and clean out the radical elements and stand with a firm determination for our national welfare. Their very existence as organized forces depend on it.

Yours, B. E. Pudney.”[27]

In 1919 Pudney helped establish an Employment Bureau at the village of Sidney. The bureau was available to every line of work, including farmer, factory, mercantile, railroad, housekeepers and professions. The expense was limited to 50 cents for each person seeking a position that submitted an application, and another 50 cents for each person from anyone who hired a job applicant. Within a week it was reported that the employment bureau “has started off with a good rush.”

The 1920 United States census listed Pudney as living with his wife Katherine at the village of Sidney in Delaware County, New York. Also in the household was Bert’s 5-year-old daughter Louise and his 2-year-old daughter Katherine. Pudney’s occupation as a “Merchant, retail music store.”

Business at this time, following the World War 1 years, was growing rapidly for Pudney. In one January 1921 advertisement he noted sales of $28,000 in 1919 and $66,000 in 1920, while setting a goal for $100,000 in 1921.

B. E. Pudney's Piano & Music Store, Sidney, N.Y. Author's collection.

In 1922 The Morris Chronicle carried an amusing anecdote about Pudney, with a well-known reputation as a salesman, having seen a beautiful buck deer.

“Saw a Buck Deer. Wednesday morning the 23d inst., B. E. Pudney, while driving his Brockway truck on the state road near the Sackett farm, between East Guilford and Rockdale, at about ten o’clock saw an unusual and beautiful sight.

It goes without saying that B. E. P. clapped on the brakes to take in the show. Coming across the Sackett River flat was seen a splendid full grown buck, with large branching antlers. It was a pretty stunt to see how easily and gracefully the big fellow cleared the fences. No guns, no dogs after him, he was in no hurry, cool as a sliced cucumber on ice.

Ex-mayor Pudney was so thrilled in admiration that he didn’t even try to sell him a phonograph.”

During the 1920s Pudney, in addition to his commercial interests, began to offer lectures to the public on a variety of topics. One “of his famous lectures” was titled “Something Hidden, Go and Find It.” Another popular lecture was known as the “Three Links,” in reference to the concept of “friendship, love and truth” of the Odd Fellows, an organization that Pudney was a member of. Pudney was “a noted speaker and needs no introduction, as he has spoken in several nearby towns. Do no fail to hear him.”[28]

In 1928 Pudney’s music store, that had been located at 40 Main Street in Sidney for the prior 12 years, moved to the Melnick block on Division Street.

In 1928 “ex-mayor B. E. Pudney of Sidney has accepted an appointment to the Republican Publicity bureau, tendered by the New York State Republican committee. Mr. Pudney will be assigned to the field work following the State convention to be held in Syracuse, 28th inst.”[29]

Despite operating a successful business for nearly 40 years, by 1929 Pudney faced numerous financial challenges, and was forced to declare bankruptcy. The bankruptcy petition, filed at federal court in Utica, listed Pudney with $25,971 in liabilities and $13,534 in assets, including $6,000 in real estate and $7,534 in contracts with various customers in many villages. The federal court, in a finding by Judge Frank Cooper of Albany, determined that Pudney had conformed with the bankruptcy law and was therefore entitled to a clean financial slate and a new start, free from debt.

In 1930 United States census listed Pudney living with his family at the village of Sidney in Delaware County. Also listed in the household was Bert’s wife Katherine A., his two daughters, Louise and Katherine E., and his son Clinton. Despite his prior bankruptcy, Pudney’s occupation was listed as “Retail merchant, music store.”

By late 1931 Pudney was beginning the process of closing out his business, taking the “opportunity as a Sidney merchant, to thank his many customers and friends who, for 38 years, have been faithful and helpful during his association with them.” [30] In July 1932 an auction was held to sell off all the remaining stock of the Pudney’s store. That same month, upon completion of the auction, the local newspaper noted that Pudney “has closed out his store business in that village [Sidney] and for the first time in over forty years is not carrying a store key in his pocket.”

Throughout his career Pudney was an avid believer in the value of marketing. His advertisements could be found in local newspapers on a weekly basis. At one point he boasted of advertising in between 14 to 25 different newspapers at the same time. He routinely sponsored free band and orchestra concerts in front of his store, at the Congregational church or in some of regional villages. He gave away records with the purchase of a phonograph. He accepted, at 100 cents on the dollar, Liberty Loan Bonds that were issued in support of World War I. For several years, in order to promote his line of sporting goods, he sponsored a fishing contest with cash prizes for the largest catch and the largest trout.

Pudney's New Piano and Music Store of Sidney, N.Y. The Otsego Journal. April 20, 1914.

In one notable marketing event on August 5, 1920 Pudney made arrangements to fly over the villages of Guilford, Oxford, Norwich, North Norwich, Sherburne, New Berlin, South New Berlin, Mt. Upton, Rockdale, Sidney and more. At each location, from an elevation of 3,000 feet, he dropped a flag, and any person returning the flag to Pudney’s store would be entitled to $10 credit towards the purchase of a phonograph, piano or sewing machine. In total Pudney dropped 16 flags over 80 miles of flying in 75 minutes.

Earlier in his career, in order to promote his line of bicycles, Pudney conducted a popular guessing contest at the village of Edmeston. Pudney placed a large number of beans, shot and pins within a sealed glass can. For 5 cents per guess, anyone who guessed the correct number of items in the glass can would win a Pennant bicycle. One person spent close to $10 in trying to win. In the end, there were 3,694 items in the can, with the winner, F. H. France of Cobleskill, coming closest with a guess of 3,697.

Pudney was married twice, with his first marriage being to Sarah De Etta Stratton. She was born in Smithville on August 4, 1865, the daughter of Thomas and Ruth Stratton. She passed away suddenly in 1907 and is buried at Riverview Cemetery in Oxford, New York. Upon her passing the local newspaper wrote a glowing tribute to her.

“Mrs. Pudney had many warm friends, who admired her untiring energy, her cheerfulness in a ceaseless routine of work, at the store as well as at home. In her daily affairs she came in contact with large numbers of people and commanded the friendship and respect of them all.

. . . It is difficult to pay a fitting tribute to the memory of one so worthy; one whose every day life was embellished by the best attributes of womanhood. She ran the journey of her life in forty-two years. It was a path marked with deeds of kindness and cheer. Flowers, not thorns; sunshine, not shadow, she scattered about her. Truth was the inspiration of her life and by kindness she exemplified its great worth.”[31]

Pudney remarried on October 24, 1912 to Katherine A. Bennett, daughter of Marvin Bennett and Josephine L. (Hammond) Bennett. The ceremony took place at Church of the Transfiguration, more well known as the “Little Church Around the Corner.” For the five years prior to their marriage Katherine had worked as a school teacher in New York City. Katherine passed away in 1984 and is buried at Prospect Hill Cemetery in Sidney, New York.

Clinton L. Pudney, Bert’s son, was killed on June 16, 1943 during a training flight while serving with the Royal Canadian Air Force in World War II. Pudney had been awarded the George Cross for his actions earlier that year, in January, for heroism during a previous training action. The award citation reads: “While engaged on a practice flight, the Halifax aircraft in which Sergt. Pudney was flying as a mid-upper gunner struck high ground, crashed and burst into flames. Three members of the crew were killed, and the others, with the exception of Sergt. Pudney, were too severely injured to extricate themselves from the burning wreckage. Though suffering from severe lacerations on his face, and in spite of loss of blood and shock, Sergt. Pudney entered the blazing aircraft several times, and finally succeeded in bringing all his companions out. He then struggled over rough moorland for two miles to obtain help.”

Katherine (Pudney) Thomas, Bert’s daughter, was born on October 10, 1917 at Sidney, New York. Katherine earned a nursing degree from the University of Buffalo, New York in 1941 and later earned her master’s degree in education from the University of Cincinnati in 1966. She worked as an instructor at the St. Francis School of Practical Nursing for ten years and later became a nursing instructor at the College of Nursing and Health at the University of Cincinnati. Katherine retired from the University of Cincinnati in 1980, but continued to work as an advocate for the American Diabetes Association and remained active with St. James Episcopal Church in Cincinnati. She married Everett A. Thomas in 1942. Everett worked as a ceramic engineer. Katherine passed away at 94 years of age on November 11, 2011. She is buried at Spring Grove Cemetery in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Emily Louise (Pudney) Day, Bert’s daughter, was a graduate of Sidney High School and passed the New York state nursing board examinations in 1936. She began her career at Wilson Memorial Hospital in Johnson City, New York. She later worked as a registered nurse for many years at the Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, New Jersey. She retired in 1984. She had lived in Belmar and Wall Township, before moving to Point Pleasant, New Jersey about 40 years before her death, likely after the passing of her husband in 1969. She married George James Day in 1934. George, a graduate of Sidney High School and Coyne Electrical School in Chicago, worked at the C. L. Reynolds Radio Testing Station at Binghamton, New York and was later employed for 27 years as a program manager at the Army Electronics Command at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey. Emily passed away at 95 years of age on June 20, 2009 at Meridian Hospice in Brick, New Jersey.

Merton W. Pudney, Bert’s twin brother, passed away at 93 years of age on January 5, 1962 at East Hartford, Connecticut. He had lived at East Hartford for 45 years and was employed at Colt’s Patent Fire Arms Manufacturing Company until his retirement in 1948. He was a member of the Wesley Memorial Methodist Church. He was survived by his wife, Katherine (Mildrum) Pudney and two sons, Delos Pudney and Dennison Pudney, both of Syracuse, New York. He is buried at Center Cemetery in East Hartford, Connecticut.

Pudney was active in the community, at times serving as fire chief, village trustee and as mayor for several terms for the village of Sidney. He volunteered as the superintendent of the Sunday school program at the Congregational church. Through various fundraisers he supported the local chapter of the Epworth League, an organization that was founded in 1889 and was comprised of Methodist young adults. He served on the local Chamber of Commerce, and was on the child welfare committee, giving “much of his time for the betterment of children’s conditions over the county.”

In 1919, Pudney, along with several others, helped found a local troop of the Boy Scouts at Sidney. In 1922 he was elected to serve as president of the Sidney Automobile Club. He served as Secretary for the annual Pudney and Church family reunion for 34 years from 1899 to his passing in 1933. He was active with both the Knights of Pythias and the Odd Fellows community organizations.

Part community service and part marketing, Pudney often provided free musical concerts to the community. Pudney commented during a series of 1914 concerts at Unadilla, Gilbertsville, Morris, Garrattsville and New Berlin that the “music will be as free as water and his purpose is to have people learn to love music more and to know better what the latest musical instruments can do.”[32] At times the concerts were conducted in front of his music store.

Pudney donated many musical instruments to various organizations and schools over the years. In January 1916 it was reported that he had donated at least 60 instruments in the prior three years. Some of the recipients included the Sunday School at East Guilford (piano), the Rockdale school (six octave organ), the Women’s Relief Corps (square piano), and the Gilbertsville district school (organ).[33]

Legacy

Upon his passing it was written that Pudney was “one who served our community faithfully and well, promoting to the best of his ability, its welfare during 39 years . . . the news of his unexpected demise proved a distinctive shock, causing deep regret wherever learned. Men, no matter how interested in public welfare, quite often fail of appreciation while living, only when they pass away, but too late do we realize the value of their services. His keynote was cheerful encouragement to all with an ever ready laugh, a merry gloom chaser, if there ever was one. As a member of the Chamber of Commerce and K. of P. Lodge, his suggestions were valued and his aim was always to aid the destitute and needy and his delight to make the juveniles happy and lead them only the right way.”[34]

Pudney passed away at 65 years of age on May 21, 1933 at the hospital at South Manchester, Hartford County, Connecticut while visiting his nephew, Milton Freeman. He had been in poor health during the preceding winter, and while at South Manchester took ill with bronchial pneumonia. The body was brought to the Carr & Hare funeral chapel at Sidney.

Funeral services were held at the Congregational Church in Sidney, with Reverend E. R. Holden officiating, assisted by Reverend Father Hogg, rector of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, and Reverend F. W. Connell, pastor of the Methodist Episcopal Church. The Knights of Pythias conducted the ritual burial service of the order in honor of their departed brother. Pudney is buried at Riverview Cemetery in Oxford, Chenango County, New York.

[1] Pudney, W. D; C. G. Stevens. Prospective History of the Pudney Family. Cleveland, Ohio, 1900.

[2] Sullivan, Dr. James. History of New York State 1523-1927. Vol. 6. New York: Lewis Historical Publishing Co., 1927. pp. 156-157.

[3] The Essex Institute Historical Collections. Vol. 51. Salem, MA: Essex Institute, 1915.

[4] “Mrs. B. C. Pudney.” The Otsego Farmer (Cooperstown, New York). September 19, 1913.

[5] Sidney Record (Sidney, New York). July 29, 1893.

[6] Sidney Record (Sidney, New York). May 26, 1894.

[7] Sidney Record (Sidney, New York). July 13, 1895.

[8] Sidney Record (Sidney, New York). May 19, 1894.

[9] “A Pleasant Anniversary. B. E. Pudney Received His First Victor Ten Years Ago – Loyal to the End.” The Cycle Age. Vol. 25, no. 6. June 7, 1900.

[10] Sidney Record (Sidney, New York). March 6, 1897.

[11] “Pudney’s Liberal Offer.” Sidney Record (Sidney, New York). April 22, 1899.

[12] “Bert E. Pudney.” Sidney Record (Sidney, New York). February 25, 1899.

[13] Sidney Record (Sidney, New York). February 9, 1901.

[14] Sidney Record (Sidney, New York). October 10, 1908.

[15] Delaware Gazette (Delhi, New York). October 24, 1906.

[16] Sidney Record (Sidney, New York). November 10, 1906.

[17] Sidney Record (Sidney, New York). September 28, 1907.

[18] Sidney Enterprise (Sidney, New York). March 20, 1909.

[19] Sidney Record (Sidney, New York). December 19, 1908.

[20] Unadilla Times (Unadilla, New York). March 26, 1909.

[21] “Sidney.” Oxford Times (Oxford, New York). October 25, 1911.

[22] “Elmore Car Agency in Sidney.” The Earlville Standard. February 12, 1912.

[23] “Mr. Pudney Has Offered Services.” The Otsego Journal (Gilbertsville, New York). June 27, 1918.

[24] “A Glowing Tribute.” Sidney Record (Sidney, New York). December 6, 1919.

[25] “An Appreciation.” Sidney Record (Sidney, New York). July 19, 1919.

[26] “Carry On.” South New Berlin Bee (South New Berlin, New York). July 31, 1920.

[27] “Autocracy’s Guilt.” Sidney Record (Sidney, New York). November 29, 1919.

[28] “Burlington.” The Otsego Farmer. October 21, 1927.

[29] “Vicinity News Briefly Told.” Unadilla Times. September 28, 1928.

[30] “To Close Out.” Sidney Enterprise (Sidney, New York). November 12, 1931.

[31] “The Late Mrs. B. E. Pudney of Sidney.” Oxford Times (Oxford, New York). January 1, 1908.

[32] “A Week of Music.” The Unadilla Times (Unadilla, New York). November 13, 1914.

[33] “A Public Benefactor.” South New Berlin Bee (South New Berlin, New York). January 29, 1916.

[34] “Then Came The Final Summons.” Sidney Record (Sidney, New York). May 25, 1933.

George A. Vallet – Kingston, New York Photographer

Sat, 05 Aug 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Introduction

George A. Vallet was a prominent photographer at the city of Kingston in Ulster County, New York from the 1850s to the early 1880s. Vallet began his photography career around 1852 and took over the gallery of Robert H. Hill in 1857, offering photographs utilizing the daguerreotype process, which was the original photographic process. Over the next several decades, as photographic technology evolved, Vallet remained current with the times, offering ambrotypes, ferrotypes (tintypes, melainotypes), stereoscopic views, cartes de visite and much more. Vallet is considered one of the great photographers in Kingston history.

Portrait, Young Man, by George A. Vallet. Author's collection.

Biography

George Ambler Vallet was born on November 14, 1833, the son of Benjamin Franklin Vallet (1813-1852) and Maria (Copp) Vallet. Benjamin was born on February 3, 1813 at Kinderhook in Columbia County, New York; and was christened at the Reformed Dutch Church in Kinderhook on December 2, 1821.

Benjamin and Maria married in 1834 at Kingston, New York. Benjamin worked as a silversmith and as a jeweler. B. F. Vallet advertised his services in the local newspaper in 1837, providing a long list of goods for sale. Examples included watches, clocks, tea and coffee pots, knives and forks, silver and plated spoons, plated candle sticks and castors, spectacles, razors, pen knives and much more. The advertisement also stated that Vallet could repair clocks and watches. His business was located on North Front Street, at the head of Wall Street, in the city of Kingston.

Benjamin was a member of several fraternal organizations at the city of Kingston. He was a founding member of the Kosciusko Lodge of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, formed on May 10, 1843. He was also a member of the Excelsior Encampment, No. 21, and the Aretas Lodge, No. 172, both of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.

The 1850 United States census listed George A. Vallet as living at Kingston village in Ulster County, New York with his parents Benjamin and Maria. Benjamin was listed with an occupation of Jeweler. Sixteen-year-old George, getting an early start in business, was also listed with an occupation of Jeweler. Also listed as living in the house were 13-year-old Maria Vallet, 9-year-old Henriette Vallet, 7-year-old Jane Vallet, 3-year-old William Vallet and 1-year-old Franklin Vallet.

William M. Vallette (1847-1922), George’s brother, is noted for having enlisted during the Civil War as a drummer boy in Company B, 20th Regiment, New York State Militia, when he was only 13 years old. After the war he was affectionately known by residents of Kingston as “Major.” He was very active in the affairs of Civil War Veterans, including being a popular member of the Pratt Post, Grand Army of the Republic (G. A. R.), serving as secretary and treasurer. Until a few years before his death, “he took great interest in playing the snare drum and was always willing to teach young men to handle the drum sticks and organize drum corps.”[1] He later worked in the insurance industry and served many years as the clerk to the city assessor. William passed away on April 26, 1922 and is buried with his brother at Wiltwyck Cemetery in Kingston, New York.

Benjamin, George’s father, passed away at 39 years of age on March 23, 1852. He is buried at Wiltwyck Cemetery in Kingston, New York. His gravestone was “erected by members of the Kosciusko Lodge No. 86.”

Benjamin’s jewelry and silversmith business was purchased by John Vignes, Jr. from Vallet’s estate. John Vignes, Sr. was a native of France, where he had learned the trade of watchmaker. John Vignes Sr. came from a prosperous French family, with one brother who served as a general in the army of Napoleon Bonaparte, one brother who was a physician and one brother who owned a large vineyard. He had emigrated, along with John Choilet, his cousin, from France to the United States during the Napoleonic Wars.

John Vignes, Sr. had founded his business at Kingston around 1820. He died in 1850, and his son, John Vignes, Jr. continued with the trade, buying out the Benjamin F. Vallet’s business from his heirs. Vignes, Jr. would be succeeded in 1876 by his son James A. Vignes, who, in turn, was succeeded by his son, Everett A. Vignes. Everett was of the fourth generation of the family to follow the jewelry and watchmaking trade in Kingston, a family business that lasted for well over 100 years.

An advertisement published in The Daily Freeman in 1872 noted that Vallet “had an experience of over twenty years” in the photography business This would place the beginning of Vallet’s photographic career around 1852, when he was 19 years old. With the death of his father in 1852, and the subsequent sale of his father’s business, it is possible that Vallet had soon after switched careers from jeweler to that of photographer.

An article published in 1910 by the Kingston Daily Freeman talked of a photograph taken by Vallet in 1853. Vallet would have been 20 years old at that time.

“An Old Picture. In the window of the confectionary store of Frederick Lynes on Wall street is a picture of the old Excelsior Hose Company, No. 4, which was organized back in the 30’s. The picture was taken by George Vallett in 1853 from the window of his photographic gallery on the second floor of a building where the Herbert Carl Dry Good Company’s establishment is now located on North Front street at the head of Wall street. The company was grouped about their old hand engine in Wall street when they were snapped by the camera.

Their engine house was located on John street near Green street and they numbered 65 active and 40 honorary members. Only a few of this old-time brigade of flame quenchers now survive. Among them are Gillead A. Smith and Bernard McBride of this city and James Van Vleet of Brooklyn.

The 1855 New York State census listed Vallet as living in his mother’s house in the 2nd Election District of the town of Kingston. His mother was listed with an occupation of “Boarders,” i.e., keeping a boarding house. She likely undertook this new business after the passing of her husband Benjamin in 1852. George was listed with an occupation of Artist. Vallet was possibly working for R. H. Hill at this time, as he was a pupil of Hill’s and would take over Hill’s gallery two years later in 1857. Also living in the house were George’s siblings Antoinette, Henrietta, Jane, William and Franklin.

Vallet, of Kingston, married Mary Ann Hopkins, of Saugerties, on May 7, 1857. The ceremony took place at Saugerties and was officiated by Reverend M. Linn.

An 1857 newspaper advertisement noted that Vallet was the successor to photographer R. H. Hill. Vallet continued to operate this gallery at 72 North Front Street, in J. D. Wilson’s New Brick Building. Hill had operated the gallery at least since 1850, according to advertisements in the local newspaper.

Robert H. Hill (1812-1880) was the brother of Levi L. Hill (1816-1865), a minister and photographer, who in 1850 claimed to have invented a color photographic process. The claim was met with skepticism at the time and for the next 150 years, but was proven true in 2007 through a 6-month scientific study conducted by National Museum of American History.

It is interesting that Robert referred to his brother Levi’s supposed invention in a section of an 1857 newspaper advertisement. “All Daguerreotypes taken at the Gallery after this date may be re-taken in the natural colors for the mere cost of the materials, as soon as the process is made public, the subscriber having secured the exclusive right for Ulster County.”[2] This section of the advertisement was likely in response to prospective clients putting off having their picture taken for they had heard that a new color process had been invented, and preferred their likeness made in color.

Vallet was a pupil of Mr. Hill and “has been in practice some time. We once had some knowledge of this business, and have retained sufficient, we think, to enable us to judge a good Picture or a Daguerreotype operator who understands his business. Therefore, we can, with confidence state that Mr. Vallet’s pictures come up to the standard of first-class work. Consequently, the old customers of the establishment, and all others, can feel secure in having pictures equal in superiority to those which have made Mr. Hill’s rooms the general resort for good likenesses.”[3]

In October 1858 Vallet displayed his pictures at the Ulster County Fair. The pictures “received much notice, and were highly praised by all. They certainly were well finished, and taken in a most life-like manner.”[4]

In the late 1850s Vallet advertised extensively in the local newspapers. The business was originally described as a partnership under the name of “Vallet & Co.,” but that partnership “was dissolved in March [1858], and the interest of my partner purchased by me. I am now alone.” It is unclear who the partner was at this point.

April 24, 1857 advertisement, The People’s Press (Kingston, New York).

“Geo. A. Vallet & Co.’s Daguerrean Rooms. Colored Daguerreotype Likenesses, Ambrotypes, Crayon Pictures, Photographs, Stereoscopes & Chromotints.

The subscribers, successors to R. H. Hill, would respectfully inform the inhabitants of Kingston, and all those visiting this place, that they continue the Gallery at 72 North Front Street, in J. D. Wilson’s New Brick Building, where has been elegantly fitted up large and spacious rooms with all the improvements of the age, and with the LARGEST SKY-LIGHT between New York and Buffalo. They will be happy to wait upon those wishing a beautiful and colored Life-Like Miniature.

You are invited to call and examine their Specimens and mode of Operating, and if suited, to sit for your Likeness. Persons will not be expected to take their Miniatures unless entire satisfaction is given; but if the Likeness is taken from the Room, it will not be exchanged for less than fifty cents. The subscribers’ long experience in The Daguerrean Art, gives them the fullest confidence that they will be able to please all who favor them with a call. All work done at this establishment warranted fadeless and of the best order. Being permanently located, they are desirous of building up a reputation for Style, Cheapness and Durability.

PRICES – From $1 to $15, according to size and style of Case or frame; in Lockets $1. Those having poor Impressions can have them re-taken for 75 cents.

Ambrotypes – These are a new and beautiful style of miniatures, and by far excel anything before made in light and shade; they are only to be seen to be admired. Price the same as Daguerreotypes. They are made on pure crystal glass, and are more durable than any other miniature, as no acid will remove or inure them. They are taken in much less time than other pictures, so bring on the children.

Stereoscopes – These are produced by making two pictures at different angles, and after being placed in a stereoscope case a most wonderful effect is produced and the subject stands out like life itself.

For Sick or Deceased Persons, A HOUSE or LANDSCAPE where it is necessary to remove the Apparatus, $5.

GOLD LOCKETS always on hand and for sale Cheap.

FULL INSTRUCTIONS in the Art given on reasonable terms, to those wishing to engage in the business.

STOCK – All kinds of Operator’s Stock furnished at New York prices.

GEO. A. VALLET & CO.

Kingston, March 20, 1857.”

September 18, 1857 Advertisement, The People’s Press (Kingston, New York).

“Pictures for the Million. Daguerreotypes at Reduced Prices. The undersigned, at their Daguerrean Rooms, No. 72 North Front Street, are now taking superior Ambrotypes at the exceedingly low price of 50 CENTS, put up in cases of the most unique and recent styles.

Pictures are taken in all kinds of weather, from 8 A. M., to 6 P. M., and executed in all cases so as to give entire satisfaction.

N. B. Pictures taken for sick or disabled persons at their residences.

GEO. A. Vallet & Co.

Kingston, Sept. 9, 1857.”

September 25, 1857 Advertisement, The People’s Press (Kingston, New York).

“Now is the Time. If any one, for a moment, doubts the superior taste and skill of Geo. A. Vallet, in producing a beautiful picture and first-rate likeness of the original, all that is necessary to do is to stop into his Room and sit down, and in a short time all doubt will be removed. If the person is not suited, the picture need not be taken, and no harm is done. Mr. Vallet is now putting likenesses in small cases for 50 cents each. Who will grudge that amount for a little one, which if taken would make the representative invaluable to the parent.”

February 12, 1858 (1857-1858 advertisement), The People’s Press (Kingston, New York).

“OBSERVE. AMBROTYPES, LARGE SIZE, FOR FIFTY CENTS, Case Included, at G. A. Vallet & Co’s, 72 North Front Street.

CITIZENS AND STRANGERS, your attention is respectfully invited to the following remarkable reduction in prices. (Come and examine, and see for yourself.) Large sizes, twice the size ever offered before, for 50 cents. Extra large size or 1/4, for $1.50. Double extra size for $3.00, and all others in proportion.

If you would secure a likeness of your family or friends, you now have a rare opportunity to do so. What a treasure is a life like miniature of a deceased and departed friend; which, when looked at, call to mind all the associations incident to human life – besides being a valuable keepsake, and a memento that the person would not part with for any consideration. Come and see, and have your own taken and bring your friends with you.

Pictures taken as well in cloudy as fair weather; and no picture offered unless entire satisfaction is given.

N. B. Pictures put in Lockets for 50 cents.

GEO. A. VALLET & CO.

Kingston, Dec. 11, 1857.”

February 26, 1858 advertisement, The People’s Press (Kingston, New York).

“A GREAT GIFT!

Come and See for Yourselves. A SPLENDID large size paper Mache CASE AND PICTURE, valued at $15, to be given for a dollar picture, at Vallet & Co’s, 72 North Front Street.

Each purchaser will receive a ticket to draw the case; to be drawn for in one month. There will be no risk in trying, as you will receive full value in the Picture you purchase, and a ticket for the great gift.

Pictures taken from 50 cts. To $5, and all warranted to give entire satisfaction. Hours for operating from 9 o’clock, A. M., to 5 o’clock, P. M.

GEO. A. VALLET & Co. Kingston, February 22, 1858.”

April 28, 1858 advertisement, The People’s Press (Kingston, New York).

“The Picture Gallery of Mr. Geo. A. Vallet, (late Hill’s,) in North Front Street, is well worthy of a visit from an admirer of the arts. A new style of likenesses, recently produced by Mr. V., we consider a beautiful and an important improvement in the “Sun-painting” business. The picture has the appearance of standing out, giving it a fullness, to attain which heretofore has been the great difficulty with Daguerreans. We once had some knowledge of this business, and can therefore judge of the skill in it. Those who desire a good and life-like likeness should give Mr. Vallet a call.”

April 23, 1858 advertisement, The People’s Press (Kingston, New York).

“VALLET’S GALLERY, (FORMERLY HILL’S,) Wilson Building, 72 North Front St.,

Can supply in an instant an imperishable image of husband or wife, child or parent, or friend, which may, by the accidents of life become the fondest treasure and memento of the heart. It is the veritable reflection of the original, truthful as He who said “let there be light” painted by light itself.

The firm of Geo. A. Vallet & Co., was dissolved in March, and the interest of my partner purchased by me. I am now alone, and will spare no exertion to secure for the prosecution of the Art which has been my study and undivided pursuit for years, every discovery made by science. The ordinary Daguerreotype has been succeeded by the AMBROTYPE, MELAINOTYPE AND PHOTOGRAPH.

These are all decided advances in faithful portraitures and their beauty as mere pictures. Specimens of the several styles can be seen at my Gallery, to which I give a general public invitation.

The prices vary with the size and style from $5 down to 50 cents, and the Cases are of a rare variety, from a plain Morocco to the richest pearl and tortoise.

Hours of operating, sunny and cloudy days being equally favorable now, from 8 A. M. to 5 P. M. Terms reasonable for landscapes or pictures of the dead.

Vallet’s Gallery has been completely refurnished, and by the opening of an ample side light, the facilities for taking brilliant pictures are much increased.

GEORGE A. VALLET.

Kingston, April 1st, 1858.”

June 25, 1858, The People’s Press (Kingston, New York).

“The new and improved style of Ambrotypes, with grained and receded background, now produced by Geo. A. Vallet, photographist, of this village are truly beautiful and the admiration of all who observe them. See Mr. Vallet’s advertisement in another column of the Press.”

July 23, 1858 advertisement, The People’s Press (Kingston, New York).

“Improved Ambrotype.

The undersigned has discovered a new process of Ambrotyping, by which the picture is THROWN OUT FROM A GRAINED GROUND, and represented in a perfectly life-like position.

He would therefore invite all persons interested in this art, to call and examine specimens of his work. He feels confident that his discovery is superior to anything ever before offered in the Daguerrean art FOR REPRESENTING LIFE ITSELF in the Picture. The price of pictures taken by the IMPROVED PROCESS, is from $1.00 upwards, according to size and style of cases.

G. A. VALLET, No. 72 North Front St.”

April 25, 1859 advertisement, The People’s Press (Kingston, New York).

“VALLET’S Photograph and Ambrotype Gallery, 72 North Front Street, over Wilson’s Hat and Cap store. Photographs copied from Ambrotypes and Daguerreotypes to a small size or large as life, and finished in oil water colors. Family groups and children’s likenesses beautifully taken for 50 cts. To $7.”

April 26, 1859, The Daily Chronicle (Kingston, New York).

“Vallet’s Photographs.– Mr. Vallet, of North Front street, is taking photograph likenesses, which are the most beautiful counterparts of the human face we ever saw. They far excel, in all the essentials of a good picture, the most elaborate and artistic oil paintings. In point of life-likeness, graphicness, mellowness of tone and brilliancy of coloring, they are unequalled by anything of the sort in these localities. Go to Vallet’s, and examine his specimens, and then get one for yourself, and our word for it you will like it.

Mr. Vallet is now prepared to take photographs of life size, and also take copies of ambrotypes and daguerreotypes of the smallest locket size, so that the copies shall be of any size from small and medium to life size.”

September 16, 1859, The Daily Chronicle (Kingston, New York).

“Vallet’s Ferotypes.–We have been shown one of the Ferotypes taken by Mr. Geo. Vallet of North Front Street. We would remark, by way of explanation, that a Ferotype is a picture taken on a prepared iron plate. They possess at least one advantage over those taken on glass – they are not easily broken. Some artists also think that they yield a cleaner and better defined picture. The picture shown us is a very good one, and if it is a fair specimen, Mr. Vallet’s pictures will undoubtedly be received with considerable favor by the public.”

September 26, 1859 advertisement, The People’s Press (Kingston, New York).

“NOTICE – The only place where Griswold’s Patent Ferrotypes are taken is at VALLET’S Gallery, 72 North Front Street, and have only been taken by me for a short time. GEO. A. VALLET.”

December 15, 1859 Advertisement, The People’s Press (Kingston, New York).

“One dollar photographs. One dollar photographs. One dollar photographs.

Fifty cent Ambrotypes. Fifty cent Ambrotypes. Fifty cent Ambrotypes.

At Vallet’s First Premium Picture Gallery, 72 North Front St., Kingston, N.Y.”

December 29, 1859, The People’s Press (Kingston, New York).

“The Holidays are Coming, so are Christmas and New Year. Young gents – If you wish to make a very acceptable present to your particular friends, just give me a call, at my Gallery, and have your very good looking phis taken, put in one of those superior cases just received at Vallet’s.

Old Gents – If you wish to make a valuable present to your family – something that will be highly prized, and something that will not get to be an old thing, give Vallet a call, at his Gallery, No. 72 North Front st., and have a superb Ambrotype, Photograph or any other style of picture you wish, ever taken by Daguerrean Artists. Vallet can suit all, so come one, come all.

Ambrotypes from 50 cts. To $5.00.

Photographs from $1.00 upwards.”

March 8, 1860 (1859-1860 advertisement), The People’s Press (Kingston, New York).

“For 30 Days, Ambrotypes in Cases, at Vallet’s Gallery, For 30 cents.

SOMETHING NEW At Vallet’s Gallery, 72 North Front St.

GRISWOLD’S PATENT FERROTYPE PICTURES, Which far excel all others now taken and are warranted to stand all kinds of climate and weather. They are only seen to be admired. Call and see, and you will soon be satisfied that they are just what you want.

GEO. A. VALLET, Kingston, Sept. 10th, 1859.”

May 3, 1860 advertisement, The People’s Press (Kingston, New York).

“Young Lady, Do you wish to please that young Gent, who we have seen paying you particular attention? Given him the privilege of having an impression of that lovely face of yours. Go with him to VALLET’S and sit for a picture.”

Portrait, Young Girl, by George A. Vallet. Author's collection.

The 1860 United States census listed George, his wife and their newborn, one month-old daughter Viola living at Kingston in Ulster County, New York. George was listed with an occupation of Daguerrean Artist.

In 1860 Vallet moved his gallery from 72 North Front Street to a new location at 94 North Front Street, over Shaw’s Shoe Store. There, “he has fitted up a very fine light for his business. We have seen some likenesses taken at the new place which were of a superior order in every respect.”[5]

October 4, 1860 Advertisement, The People’s Press (Kingston, New York).

“WASHINGTON AMBROTYPE, PHOTOGRAPH AND NEILOGRAPH GALLERY, No. 94 North Front St., at the head of Wall.

HAVING removed from 72 North Front St. to my NEW GALLERY, 94 North Front St., over Shaw’s Shoe Store, and at the head of Wall Street, (with only one pair of Stairs to ascend,) I am now ready to receive visitors and to furnish them with a Photograph, Ambrotype, Melainotype, or Neilograph, superior to any ever made. Having a very powerful light, I am prepared to take children’s pictures in one half less time than heretofore. I am making pictures which cannot be beat, and would invite all to call at my New Gallery and see for themselves.

Pictures taken at prices to suit the times, as I am to be undersold.

REMEMBER THE PLACE – No. 94 North Front St., (head of Wall.)

Only look for WASHINGTON and the big Banner on the top of the building.

GEORGE A. VALLET.”

Vallet marketed his gallery in an 1861 newspaper advertisement in The Rondout Freeman.

“Vallet’s Photograph Gallery!!

Head of Wall Street, Kingston.

The Fine ARTS fully Represented at this Establishment.

Large Photographs!! Only $1 – duplicates of the same, half price.

CARD VISITES – four for $1 – or one dozen for $2.50. These visites are something new and decidedly handsome. The proof given by a call.

Card Photographs!! Or Heads – twenty-four for $1.

Pictures copied and enlarged from small pictures and colored.

Prices very Low. Work warranted; and no charge made for a look at the array of specimens always hanging in the gallery.

Kingston, October 3, 1861.”

An 1862 advertisement in the local newspaper described the wide range of products available at Vallet’s gallery.

“Vallet’s Photograph Gallery!

Head of Wall St., Kingston, N.Y.

Large Photographs! Carte de Visites! Vignettes! Ambrotypes, and all other style of Pictures taken in the very best style.

Oval GILT FRAMES for sale very CHEAP.

A LARGE assortment of Photograph Albums for sale at Low Rates.

Card Photographs of Miss Lavinia Warren and Commodore Nutt. The smallest man and woman in the world. For sale at 25 cents each.

GEO. A VALLET.”

In 1863 Vallet briefly operated a branch location at the village of Saugerties. The Saugerties Telegraph carried the following advertisement.

“Photographs and Card de Visites!

Having taken the Rooms of Mr. JERNEGAN for a short time, for the purpose of making PHOTOGRAPH PICTURES! I would respectfully invite the people of Saugerties to Call and Examine Specimens of Work at the Gallery, and if

The work will be under the charge of Mr. Jas. Beekman.

Satisfaction guaranteed in all cases or Pictures re-taken without extra charge.

GEO. A. VALLET. Saugerties, April 27th, 1863.

Mr. Jernegan will remain at the rooms to take Ambrotypes as usual.”

The 1865 New York State census listed Vallet as residing in the 2nd Election District in the city of Kingston. He was listed with an occupation of Artist. Also living in the household was Mary A., his wife; Viola, his 5-year-old daughter; Frances, his 2-year-old daughter; and Ellen Riley, a 19-year-old servant from Ireland.

Vallet marketed his gallery in an 1865 newspaper advertisement in The Rondout Freeman.

“Vallet’s Photograph and Ambrotype Gallery, Wall Street, Kingston, N.Y.

Cart de Visites, Vignettes, Ambrotypes, Photographs, Gems, Porcelains and all other styles of pictures.

The largest assortment of OVAL FRAMES, PHOTOGRAPH ALBUMS, CARD PICTURES for sale in the County. Daguerreotypes and Ambrotypes copied in Card Pictures and large Photographs, and colored in Oil, India Ink and Water colors.

Cards, $1.40 1/2 dozen; $2.50 per dozen.

Vignettes, $1.65 1/2 dozen; $3 per dozen.

Children’s Cards, $2 1/2 dozen; $3 per dozen.

Please call and see for yourself. Square Frames of ROSEWOOD, BLACK WALNUT and GILT. Made to Order.

GEORGE A. VALLETT.”

In 1865 and 1866 Vallet, now located at 12 Wall Street, advertised his services in the local newspaper The Rondout Freeman.

“VALLET’S PHOTOGRAPH GALLERY, 12 WALL St., Kingston, N.Y.

Porcelains, Ambrotypes, Card Pictures, Gems, Photograph Albums, Oval Frames, Rose and Gilt, Black Walnut and Gilt Frames made to order.

4 Carte de Visites, $1.00, 12 for $2.00

4 Vignettes, $1.25, 12 for $2.50

Duplicate Cart de Visites, $1.50 per doz.

Duplicate Vignettes, $2.00 per doz.

Specimens can be seen at Knapp’s Drug Store.

GEO. A. VALLET, Rondout, Nov. 17th, 1865.”

The Rondout Freeman wrote in the November 22, 1865 issue about Vallet’s work. “Geo. A. Vallett, of Kingston, a very successful and excellent artist, has shown us some very fine specimens of porcelaintypes, which for clearness and delicacy of finish equal any that we have ever seen. He has placed a number of his specimens on exhibition at Knapp’s Drug Store where they can be examined by our citizens. Mr. Vallet meets with great success in making pictures in all branches of the art.”

In 1867 The Rondout Freeman published another Vallet advertisement in their December 4, 1867 issue.

“Vallett’s New Photograph Gallery, Newkirk Building, Division Street, Rondout, N.Y.

The citizens of Rondout and county are invited to call and examine the specimens of this establishment, where they will find the best Pictures and the most complete Photograph Gallery in the County.

Pictures of all kinds known in the Photographic art taken IN THE VERY BEST MANNER.

Large Photographs, Cartes de visite, Vignettes, Ambrotypes, Gems, Bon-Tons, Tintypes and Porcelain Pictures.

Pictures taken in cloudy as well as in clear weather, and particular attention given to taking copies, Groups and Children’s pictures.

Gallery open from 8 o’clock A. M. until 5 o’clock P. M.

GEO. A. VALLETT, Artist.”

The 1870 United States census listed Vallet as residing in the village of Rondout, Ulster County. He was listed with an occupation of Photographer. Also in the household was Mary Ann, his wife; Viola, his 10-year-old daughter; and Frances, his 8-year-old daughter.

In July 1872 Vallet advertised his services in the local newspaper The Daily Freeman.

“VALLET’S PHOTOGRAPH GALLERY, 12 Wall Street.

Large Photographs, Card de Visites, Imperials, Shadow Pictures and Tin Types Taken.

Pictures of all kinds copied and finished in oil, water colors or India Ink.

Having had an experience of over twenty years, in which I gained a reputation which is well known to the citizens of this city and county, I flatter myself I can take pictures which will please the sitter and be second to none.

GEO. A. VALLET.”

The August 31, 1872 issue of the Kingston Daily Freeman carried the following Vallet advertisement.

“A Fine Picture. We were very much surprised on being shown an imperial photograph, colored in India ink, of Mr. William Bonner, to learn that it was produced at Vallet’s gallery in Wall street, western district. The entire picture is done in perfect taste and is much better, in every way, than we imagined home photographers could produce.”

The September 17, 1872 issue of the Kingston Daily Freeman carried the following advertisement.

“All persons wishing photographs and picture frames should call on Geo. A. Vallet, at his old Gallery, No. 12 Wall St.”

In December 1872 Vallet placed an advertisement in the New Paltz Times.

“VALLETT’S PHOTOGRAPH GALLERY, No. 12 Wall Street, City of Kingston.

Large Photographs for $1.50 and $2.

Cartes de Visite, $2.00 per dozen.

Tintypes, for frame, 4 for 50 cents.

Tintypes, for frame, 75c and $1 each

Pictures finished in India Ink, Oil and Water Colors. Oval and Square Frames all sizes and styles.

GEO. A. VALLETT, Kingston, December 16, 1872.”

The January 1, 1874 issue of the Kingston Daily Freeman wrote of a recent photograph taken by Vallet.

“George Vallett took photographs of Mr. Weiner’s turkey-Englishman yesterday, and now when they are shown people say ‘Why, it looks like Jim Cooper, don’t it?’”

In 1874, “Alderman Gross has had a fine picture of himself, in the uniform of Chief Engineer of the Western Fire Department, taken by George Vallet, the photographer. It is a large photograph finished in water colors and besides being a very accurate portrait of the ex-Chief, is a very handsome specimen of workmanship. It is on exhibition in Knapp’s window.”[6] The photograph was also described as a “fine colored photograph 26x30, the work having been done by Geo. A. Vallet of this city. It is a perfect likeness of the donor and a handsome adornment for the walls of the company’s rooms.”[7]

The 1875 New York State census listed Vallet as residing in the 7th Ward of the city of Kingston. He was listed with an occupation of Photographer. The household also included Mary A., his wife; Viola, his 15-year-old daughter; and Frances, his 12-year-old daughter.

The October 21, 1875 issue of the Kingston Daily Freeman carried the following advertisement.

"Vallett’s Gallery, No. 12 Wall street. Four Tintypes for 50cts, or eight for 75 cts.”

The January 5, 1878 issue of Kingston Daily Freeman wrote of the new location for Vallet’s gallery, now in the Rondout section of the city of Kingston.

“George Vallett, the photographer from the upper part of the city, has leased the rooms in the VanDeusen building on The Strand where he has established a gallery.”

In 1878 Sherriff B. Webb had photographs taken of every sheriff of Ulster County who held the office since 1843, a period of 35 years. He “had them handsomely framed and hung up in the sheriff’s office in the court-house, over the door. The work was done by George Vallet, the photographer on Wall Street, and the likenesses are very good. Their names are: John H. Schryver, who was elected in 1843; Charles Brodhead, elected in 1846; Jacob L. Signor, in 1849; John Griffiths, in 1852; Maurice Wurts, in 1855; Abraham A. Deyo, Jr., in 1858; Davis Winne, in 1861; Simon S. Westbrook, in 1861; Cyrenius F. Brill, in 1867; John W. Kerr, in 1870; Silas Saxton, in 1873; and William B. Webb in 1876. The most of these men are living, one of them being considerable over seventy years of age.”[8]

The February 6, 1879 issue of the Kingston Daily Freeman wrote of the new location of Vallet’s gallery.

“George Vallette, the Photographer, has had the rooms over Uncle Jake Fox’s on The Strand, fitted up for a gallery, and will open them on Saturday.”

The 1880 United States census listed Vallet as residing in Enumeration District 126 at the city of Kingston and with an occupation of Photographer. The household also included Mary Ann, his wife; and Frances A., his 17-year-old daughter.

On March 6, 1880 the Kingston Daily Freeman wrote that “McEntee & Dillon have had photographs taken of the engine they have constructed for Captain Dave Hitchcock’s new steamer which is to ply between Albany and New Baltimore. George Vallett took the photographs, the engine having been set up in the shop for the purpose.”

On September 20, 1880 the Kingston Daily Freeman wrote that “Company D’s men are ordered to be on hand at the Armory tomorrow morning at 8 o’clock, preparatory to leaving the city for Hudson. Invited guests of the Company will join the Company at the Mansion House at about 9 o’clock, when Vallett will photograph the Company and the band.”

On December 22, 1880 the Kingston Daily Freeman wrote that “Vallett is making photographs of the members of one of our hose companies.”

In 1881 it was reported that Vallet had recently vacated his photograph gallery on The Strand. Photographer Lorenzo Short took over the space, and had it cleaned and repaired. This was to be a branch location, with Short’s primary establishment in the Newkirk building, on Union Avenue.

By 1883 it was reported that Vallet had left Kingston to work in Tyrone, Pennsylvania. “George A. Vallett, the well-known photographer, is in town. He is now in the employ of B. Harris at Tyrone, Pa., who employs twenty-two operatives in his business.”

The 1910 United States census, 11 years after George’s passing in 1899, listed his widowed, 71-year-old wife Mary living in the city of Kingston with her daughter Viola and her son-in-law William Dickinson. Mary was listed as having had two children, only one of whom was living. William, who was born in Alabama, was listed as working as a floor manager in a dry goods and clothing store.

Legacy

Vallet was once described as “one of the leading photographers in this locality in the early days of the art, having galleries in Rondout and Kingston.”

George A. Vallet passed away at 65 years of age in Manhattan on June 1, 1899. He is buried at Wiltwyck Cemetery in Kingston, New York. His gravestone, erected by the Wheatfield Ulster County Civil War Round Table, reads “Kingston’s Premier Civil War Photographer.”

Mary Ann (Hopkins) Vallet, George’s wife, died at 76 years of age after a long illness at the home of George Stoddard, on the Saugerties road, on April 12, 1916. She “had many friends among the older residents of this city.” The funeral took place at the chapel of A. Carr & Son, No. 1 Pearl Street. She was survived by one daughter, Viola Dickenson of Summit, New Jersey. She is buried with her husband at Wiltwyck Cemetery in Kingston, New York.

[1] Kingston Daily Freeman (Kingston, New York). April 27, 1922.

[2] The People’s Press (Kingston, New York). March 6, 1857.

[3] “Kingston Daguerrean Rooms.” The People’s Press (Kingston, New York). March 20, 1857.

[4] “Ulster County Fair.” The People’s Press (Kingston, New York). October 22, 1858.

[5] The People’s Press (Kingston, New York). May 10, 1860.

[6] “Fine Picture.” The Kingston Daily Freeman (Kingston, New York). May 25, 1874.

[7] “Presentation by Hon. John A. Gross to Kingston Hose Company, No. 2.” Kingston Daily Freeman (Kingston, New York). July 8, 1874.

[8] “Sheriffs of Ulster.” The Kingston Daily Freeman (Kingston, New York). October 28, 1878.

Winfield S. Davis – Ellenville, New York Photographer

Sat, 29 Jul 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Introduction

W. S. Davis was a popular photographer at the village of Ellenville, New York from the mid-1880s to 1902. He also operated a branch gallery at Grahamsville, New York during the 1890s. Winfield was the son of Edwin A. Davis, a photographer in Rockland County, New York. Winfield sold his Ellenville gallery in 1902 after the passing of his wife Lillian. The gallery was purchased by Albert V. Porter, who operated the business until 1918.

Sam's Point. Author's collection.

Biography

Winfield Scott Davis was born on May 16, 1861 in New York City, the son of Edwin Augustus Davis (1836-1911) and Catherine Lavinia Davis (1839-1923).

The 1870 United States census showed 9-year-old Winfield living with his parents, 34-year-old Edwin A. Davis and 30-year-old Lavina Davis. The family was living at Orangetown in Rockland County, New York. Edwin was listed with an occupation of photographer.

The 1880 United States census showed 19-year-old Winfield living with his parents, 44-year-old Edwin A. Davis and 40-year-old Catherine. The family was living in New York County, New York. Edwin was listed with an occupation of photographer and Winfield was listed as “works at home.”

The 1878-1879 and the 1879-1880 catalogs of Columbia College in New York City listed a Winfield Scott Davis as being a first class student and a second class student, respectively, in the School of Mines. He was listed as residing at 491 6th Avenue. It is unclear if Winfield graduated from college as he was not listed in either the 1880-1881 or the 1881-1882 Columbia College catalogs.

Trow’s New York City Directory for the year ending May 1, 1880 listed both Edwin A. Davis and Winfield S. Davis working as photographers and both residing at 491 Sixth Avenue. This was also true in the 1882 and 1883 directories. The New York City Directory for 1884-1885 listed a Winfield S. Davis with a profession of photographer and a home address of 491 6th Avenue; but did not list Edwin A. Davis.

Winfield S. Davis met Lillian May Prindle while still a student at college. They were married on November 26 (or 29 depending on the source), 1883 in Highbridge, New York. Lillian was the daughter of Charles Bradley Prindle (1841-1904) and Fidelia A. (Ferguson) Prindle (1844-1907). Charles owned a hat factory and lived at Mill Plain, Connecticut. Lillian was born on June 29, 1867(8) and was raised in Mill Plain, Connecticut.

Lillian May Prindle is a direct descendant of Captain Nehemiah Keeler (1753-1838) who honorably served during the American Revolution. Keeler enlisted and served as a private in 1776; served in various regiments until 1780; and was promoted through the grades to Captain. He married Eleanor Rockwell at Ridgebury, Connecticut on June 15, 1772. According to Alexander DuBin, author of Five Hundred First Families of America, Lillian’s lineage, through her father, can be traced back over 1,000 years to Charlemagne (747-814), ruler of the Holy Roman Empire, and to other kings and nobility of Europe and France.

Winfield and Lillian had four children, including Wynetta, born September 14, 1884; Kittie, born August 5, 1886; Edwin “Eddie,” born January 8, 1888; and Dorothy Marguerite, born August 4, 1898.

Dorothy was born at Ellenville, New York but moved to Connecticut after her mother’s passing. She graduated from Classical High School at Springfield, Massachusetts in 1916. She was also a student at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York in 1917-1918. She married Carl Oscar Carlson (1898-1970) on October 4, 1919. She passed away on August 11, 1971 in Scott County, Kentucky. Although it cannot be definitively determined if it is the same person, Colonel Harland Sanders, famous founder of Kentucky Fried Chicken, was listed as one of the honorary bearers at Dorothy’s funeral. She is buried at the Lexington Cemetery in Lexington, Kentucky.

“Georgetown, Ky. Mrs. Dorothy Davis Carlson, 73, widow of Carl Oscar Carlson, Carls Haven Farm, Scott County, died about 11 p.m. Wednesday at the John Graves Ford Hospital here after a short illness.

Since Mr. Carlson’s death in August of 1970 she had been president of the Lexington Photo Engraving Co., which he founded in May, 1946.

Mrs. Carlson, a native of New York state, was a past president of the Lexington Altrusa Club, and was a member of the Lexington chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, Akielo Temple, Daughters of the Nile, Mt. Horeb Homemakers Club, and Salvation Army Auxiliary Club and the Woman’s Club of Central Kentucky.

She was a member of the First Church of Christ Scientist and of the Mother Church in Boston, Mass.

Survivors are a son, Charles E. Carlson, Lexington; two daughters, Mrs. Harold Lofton Childs, Chelsea, Vt., and Mrs. L. Philip Williams, Columbus, Ga., and eight grandchildren.

The body is at Milwards Mortuary – Broadway, Lexington.”[1]

Wynetta Davis was the subject of newspaper articles across the country in 1910 when her wealthy husband Arthur Brady shot her. Brady, who was an invalid due to locomotor ataxia, died soon after the shooting. Wynetta remarried to James A. Benedict, but she died in an automobile accident three years later in 1913 at Danbury, Connecticut. She is buried at Milltown Cemetery in Brewster, New York.

Kittie married James Anderson Benedict, widow of her sister Wynetta, in New York City on December 24, 1916. She was a longtime resident of Colorado Springs, Colorado. While in Colorado she was a member of the Monday Progress Women’s Club of which she was president, the First Presbyterian Church, the Parker Prayer Group and the Daughters of the American Revolution. She passed away June 13, 1972 at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Wynette Epp, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She is buried at Evergreen Cemetery in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Edwin Augustus Davis resided at the city of Danbury, Connecticut for over 60 years. He likely moved there some time after the tragic death of his mother in 1901. Edwin’s World War I registration card listed his profession as a self-employed farmer at Mill Plain, Connecticut and also noted that he was supporting a wife, two children and a grandmother. He later worked as a machinist. Edwin died on March 3, 1962 at 74 years of age at Danbury Hospital. The funeral took place at the Albert W. Schmidt funeral home with Reverend Stoddard B. Williams, pastor of the King Street Christian Church, officiating. He was survived by two sons, Maurice Davis, of Danbury; and Donald Davis, of New Fairfield; a daughter, Mrs. Charles Tease, of White Plains, New York; and two sisters, Mrs. Oscar Carlson, of Kentucky; and Mrs. Kittie Benedict, of Colorado Springs, Colorado; and several grandchildren. Edwin is buried at Milltown Cemetery in Brewster, New York.

Winfield and his wife Lillian likely came to the village of Ellenville around late 1885 or early 1886. The Ellenville Journal reported in December 1885 that E. A. Davis, Winfield’s father, had purchased the photograph gallery of Edward Lewis, a noted photographer who had previously worked in Kingston. Lewis had moved from Kingston to Ellenville three years prior in 1883 to open the gallery. After selling the gallery it was reported that Lewis, “having visited quite a number of places, north and south for a business location, has settled in the pleasant village of Nyack, Rockland County. We wish him success.”[2]

“Mr. E. Lewis, the photographer in Thompson’s building, has sold out his business to Mr. E. A. Davis, from Danbury, Conn., who has already taken possession and commenced work. Mr. Lewis, who has been among us for more than two and a half years, is not only a skillful and experienced artist, but an excellent citizen as well. We are pleased to learn that he does not contemplate immediate removal from town. We trust that Mr. Davis may find the lines fallen pleasantly, and meet with abundant success.”[3]

When Davis began trying to sell his gallery in 1900, an advertisement noted that the gallery was “established 18 years; 15 years present owner.” These facts would coincide with Edward Lewis founding the gallery in 1883 and Davis taking over around 1886. However, given the above-mentioned article that stated the gallery was sold directly to E. A. Davis, it is unclear if Winfield’s father, 1) purchased the gallery on behalf of his son; 2) or perhaps was, for a brief time, a partner with his son; 3) or operated the gallery by himself until his son arrived within a few short years. What is known is that within a few years advertisements and articles in the local newspaper referred to the photographer as “W. S. Davis,” rather than just “Davis.”

In the January 15, 1886 issue of the Ellenville Journal it was written that “Mr. Davis, successor to Lewis, the photographer, and whose card appears in another column, is a pleasant gentleman, an artist of some years’ successful experience in the city.”

In that same January 15, 1886 issue of the Ellenville Journal, Davis placed perhaps the first advertisement for his new gallery.

“Davis, Late of Fifth Avenue, New York, (Successor to E. Lewis,) Photographer. Portraits by Instantaneous Process. Photographs of Houses, Live Stock and Interiors. Copying a specialty. Thompson Building, Canal Street, Ellenville.”

The Davis gallery was located at 129 Canal Street in Ellenville. The reverse side of a cabinet card portrait taken by Davis noted that “Instantaneous process used exclusively. Negatives preserved. Duplicates can be had at any time.” His series of scenic stereoviews were issued under the title “Views of Ellenville and Vicinity.”

Through the years the Ellenville Journal, the local newspaper, wrote about Davis and his artistic photography. Below are some early examples of items that were published.

October 29, 1886, Ellenville Journal

“Davis, the photographer, presents a change of adv’t in this issue. Mr. Davis shows a line of much the finest views ever made with the camera in this section; and he is prepared to take views of any sort, including interiors, at short notice.

September 2, 1887, Ellenville Journal

“Davis, the photographer, has during the past week added to his collection of artistic and charming views of local scenery a cabinet photo of the Kaederkill Falls some distance east of Sam’s Point, on the eastern slope of the mountain. It is indeed a gem; the falls are unexcelled for romantic beauty by anything in the State, and the picture is perfect.”

In January 1887 the photographic work taken by Davis was recognized at the county fair conducted by the Southern Ulster Agricultural Society. “Davis, the popular photographer, had a booth on the ground, and had also a fine collection of his pictures in the exhibition building. These were justly admired. Mr. Davis has few rivals in his art.”[4]

Sam's Point. Author's collection.

Parkers Pass, Hanging Rock Falls. Author's collection.

Arching Rocks, Lake Mohonk and Vicinity Arching Rocks. Author's collection.

The Ellenville Journal continued to write about Davis in the late 1880s and into the early 1890s.

February 3, 1888 advertisement, Ellenville Journal

“Davis, (Late of Sixth Avenue, New York), Portrait and View Photographer! 129 Canal Street, Ellenville. Copying of Finest quality! 75 Stereoscopic Views Of Points of Interest in Ellenville and Vicinity. Views of all kinds and sizes made at short notice. Best workmanship. Moderate Prices.”

January 3, 1889, Ellenville Journal

“Davis, the photographer, has on exhibition at his rooms some elegant trout rods, hand-made. They are for sale also at the store of H. Tice & Co.”

April 26, 1889, Ellenville Journal

“Davis, the photographer, makes unexcelled views, and he has on exhibition and sale at his gallery a great variety representing many of the more notable points of attraction and bits of local scenery. And, by the way, now is just the time for obtaining a picture of your residences, grounds, street views, etc., while the foliage is putting forth, and before it becomes too dense.”

July 18, 1890, Ellenville Journal

“INTERESTING VIEWS.– City visitors will find at the art gallery of Davis, the photographer, a series of beautiful and very interesting photos of the natural attractions and wonders of this vicinity – unsurpassed by those of any other locality east of the Rockies. These embrace besides pictures of the village a great variety of mountain pictures – cliffs, crevices, glens, caves, and the like, with most enchanting waterfalls, not only of the mountain, but also in the hills and vales of the vicinage. Those who entertain summer guests may do them a favor by directing their attention to this rare collection. Not only will it afford “tips” for many a delightful ramble, but from it may be chosen pretty souvenirs of the summer’s outing.”

January 16, 1891 advertisement, Ellenville Journal

“Davis, Artist, Photographer, 129 Canal St., Ellenville. A fine stock of PICTURE FRAMES at low prices! Special from January 1st, for $5 I will make 1 16x20 3/4 life size crayon and 1 dozen cabinet photos!

Cabinet Photos, $2, $3 and $4 per Doz.

Copying of finest quality.

Views of all points of interest in the vicinity for sale at the studio. Views of all kinds and sizes made at short notice. Best workmanship. Moderate Prices.”

August 7, 1891, Ellenville Journal

“We observe that in some parts of the county artists from distant cities are employed to make views of buildings, grounds, local scenery, etc. There is no occasion to go abroad for that sort of work. Davis, the Ellenville photographer, is unexcelled in that line. And, by the way, he has on exhibition and sale at his gallery hundreds of views of notable features of Shawangunk mountain and the vicinity, embracing many scenic gems.”

In 1889 a photograph by Davis was published in The Photographic Times.

“Proper Credit.– We are informed by Mr. W. S. Davis, the well-known photographer of Ellenville, N.Y. that the Mosstype view of “Verkeederkill Falls,” in the “American Annual for 1889” is from his negative. We are glad to know who is entitled to the credit of such beautiful work, and would have been glad to credit him on the print had we learned of the authorship before going to press.”[5]

In 1891 Davis expanded his business by opening a branch gallery at the village of Grahamsville. He would continue to operate this branch gallery throughout the 1890s.

“Grahamsville Photograph Gallery! The subscriber will be in Grahamsville, and open a PHOTOGRAPH GALLERY for the following dates: November 5th and 6th, 12th and 13th, and 19th and 20th. Other dates will be announced later. W. S. Davis, Photographer, Ellenville, Oct. 30, 1891.”[6]

In 1892 Davis wrote a letter to the St. Louis and Canadian Photographer, a leading industry publication.

“Concerning the Aristotype.

Editor St. Louis and Canadian Photographer:

While the subject of “Aristo” is all the go, I will state that I have been working the process since August, 1889, at which time I saw some beautiful work in Boston by E. A. Gilbert. I bought one of his outfits and have since tried almost every kind of aristotype paper in the market – Gelatine and Collodion – and have come to the conclusion that the former is not what many claim for it, and cannot be made to withstand the different changes of our climate. [Gelatine prints can not be made that neither water, boiling hot or ice cold, will in any manner affect, no matter how long the contact. This seems to us will be sufficient to withstand any climatic change any country can ever be subjected to. – Ed. St. L. & C. P.]

Collodio-Chloride prints, self-prepared, and “Aristo,” were put into my show-case together with gelatine and albumen. The two latter faded and lost their brilliancy, while the former retained its tone and color.

The show-case which I have for testing the permanency of my work faces the northeast. When the sun strikes the glass in the morning, dampness from the gelatine and albumen prints condenses on the inside of the glass, and later in the day the water returns to the prints and the glass again becomes clear. The collodion prints, not susceptible to water changes, do not undergo this terrible ordeal, and with the recent hot water process is much easier of manipulation than either albumen or gelatine.

W. S. Davis, Ellenville, N.Y.”[7]

At the 1892 County Fair “Davis, our local photographer, had a rich and varied exhibit of the product of his skill, which by the way is unsurpassed. He had also a gallery on the grounds where he “took” the people.”[8]

Portrait, Well Dressed Man, by W. S. Davis. Author's collection.

Portrait, Young Woman, by W. S. Davis. Author's collection.

Business Imprint, W. S. Davis, Ellenville, N.Y. Author's collection.

The Ellenville Journal and other local newspapers wrote of Davis and his photographic gallery throughout the 1890s.

March 18, 1892 advertisement, Ellenville Journal

“Davis, Photographer, and Dealer in Amateur Supplies, Canal Street, Ellenville, N.Y. Finest equipped Gallery within Fifty Miles. I make Portraits and Views of all sizes. My Life Size Aristo, Sepia and Solar Aristo Enlargements are the finest that can be made. Parties wishing Crayon, Oil, Water Color or Pastel Portraits will do well to consult me.

The Collodio-chloride Aristo, making the best permanent picture, and the instantaneous process used exclusively.

Lady Operator in attendance.”

August 8, 1892, Middletown Times-Press

“W. S. Davis, the Ellenville photographer, has just finished a large pictures of Honk Falls, Mt. Menaga, Sam’s Point, Walnut Mountain, White Lake, and also a view of Ellenville. He has placed them in a beautiful oak-finished frame and hung them in the Weehawken depot.”

September 15, 1892, Middletown Times-Press

“The display of photos, etc., of Davis, the photographer, is the best ever seen here.” [At the annual county fair held by the Ulster County Agricultural Society.]

July 24, 1894, Ellenville Journal

“W. S. Davis has put on exhibition at the entrance to his gallery a very fine picture of Mr. Dwight Divine.”

September 18, 1896, Ellenville Journal

“W. S. Davis, the local photographer, proposes to open a branch in Liberty in a few weeks. Mr. Davis possesses the highest skill in his art.”

March 12, 1897, Ellenville Journal

“Davis’s large photo of the Reformatory was on exhibition a day or two in the County Treasurer’s office, en route to Albany.”

March 12, 1897, Ellenville Journal

“Davis, the photographer, is making cabinet photographs for $1.50 a dozen. That would seem to leave no motive to go abroad for pictures.”

July 9, 1897, Ellenville Journal

“Photographer Davis went yesterday to Jamestown, to attend the convention at that place, expecting to be absent until the 20th.”

The 1900 United States census showed 39-year-old Davis living at the village of Ellenville, town of Wawarsing in Ulster County, New York. Also living in the household was his 32-year-old wife Lillian, and his four children, 15-year-old Wynetta, 13-year-old Kittie, 12-year-old Edwin and 1-year-old Dorothy. The census showed that Winfield and Lillian had been married for 17 years and that they had four children, all of them living. Winfield was listed with an occupation of photographer, while Wynetta, Kittie and Edwin were all listed “at school.”

Lillian, Winfield’s wife, tragically passed away in 1901.

“A sudden and sad death was that of the wife of Winfield S. Davis, the well known local photographer, which occurred about five o’clock on Friday evening last, after no more than fifteen or sixteen hours’ illness, death being attributed to congestion of the kidneys. Mrs. Davis had been well as usual the preceding day. During the night she was up with a child and took a chill. A physician was called early in the morning, and later others were summoned, but her malady seemed to defy treatment, and she steadily grew worse. In the afternoon she recognized the gravity of the situation, and an hour before her death bade her family good-bye. Mrs. Davis was in her 34th year; she was bright and winsome, and made friends at sight . . .

Much sympathy is extended to the sorely stricken family. Besides the husband there are four children – Winetta, Kittie, Eddie, and little Dorothy two or three years old. The mother of Mrs. Davis lives in New York, and a married sister in Hartford. Rev. Dr. Berg conducted a funeral service at 5 p.m. Saturday, and on Monday morning the remains were conveyed to Milltown, Conn., for interment, Dr. H. C. Derby accompanying. On his return to Ellenville Wednesday evening, Mr. Davis was accompanied by his father and mother.”[9]

Davis placed the following advertisement for his photography business in the July 4, 1902 issue of the Ellenville Journal.

“Davis, Photographer, will make, till stock is used up, 1 Doz. C. D. V. Photos for 50c. Cut prices in all sizes to reduce stock. F R A M E S at reduced prices.”

The following month Davis placed the following advertisement in the August 1, 1902 issue of the Ellenville Journal.

“Davis, Photographer, is making 12 Photos, C. D. V., for 50c. 6 Cabinet Photos for 60c. 1 dozen Carbonettes for 75c. This is less than the cost of the material used, and the price will last only as long as the stock on hand.”

Perhaps due to the tragic death of his wife, Davis offered his gallery for sale.

“FOR SALE.– One of the best equipped galleries in New York State; only gallery; town 4,000; fully stocked; small branch gallery 16 miles distant; established 18 years; 15 years present owner. W. S. Davis, Ellenville, N.Y.”[10]

The Davis Gallery was purchased by Albert V. Porter in September 1902.

“Albert V. Porter, for twenty-six years engaged at the knife factory, on Tuesday resigned his position as foreman of the material room, having been for some time in poor health and advised by his physician to seek a more congenial occupation. Mr. Porter has purchased the entire outfit with stock and good will of W. S. Davis’s photograph gallery taking possession this week. Mr. Davis has established a good reputation for the gallery during the past twenty years, and Mr. Porter, with artistic taste and a successful experience of some years as an amateur photographer, should do well.”[11]

After their mother’s passing, Wynetta and Kittie went to live with their grandfather, E. A. Davis, at Mill Plain, Connecticut. Dorothy, as per a note on www.findagrave.com, went to live with her mother’s sister, Grace Prindle Dexter, and her husband, Albert J. Dexter.”

In November 1903 it was reported that “W. S. Davis, formerly photographer in Ellenville, and his son are spending a few days in Kerhonkson, having come up from the city on a hunting trip.”[12]

In December 1903 Winfield remarried to Mayme MacNiff (1861-1923) in Manhattan, New York. It was her first marriage. Mayme was born in Pearl River, New York. Her parents were Philip McNiff and Susan (Webb) McNiff.

After selling his gallery, Davis became “interested in the production of milk flour by a patented process, and will give his attention wholly to that business, removing his family to Connecticut.”[13] The process called for “reducing skim milk to a powder called milk flour, that can be again turned into a liquid. The formula is a secret. It is with this company that W. S. Davis of this village is associated.”[14]

In 1910 it was reported that Davis was residing at the village of Centerville Station, New York with his second wife. Centerville Station would later change its name to Woodridge.

The 1910 United States census listed the 49-year-old Winfield Davis as residing in the town of Fallsburg in Sullivan County, New York. Also in the household was his second wife Mayme, to whom he had been married for seven years. They had no children together. Winfield was listed with an occupation of photographer, with an industry of “general work.”

Three years later, in 1913, it was reported that Davis was living at Mountaindale, New York. Mountaindale is located southwest of the village of Ellenville and within the town of Fallsburg in Sullivan County, New York.

The 1930 United States census listed the 69-year-old Winfield Davis, now a widow, as living in the village of Woodridge in the town of Fallsburg, Sullivan County, New York. He was listed with an occupation of photographer.

Legacy

Winfield Scott Davis left his mark on Ellenville’s history through over 15 years of artistic portraits of local citizens and beautiful landscape stereoviews of Ellenville and the surrounding region. Davis passed away on November 5, 1938 and is buried at Milltown Cemetery in Brewster, New York.

[1] “Engraving Firm Head Is Dead.” The Lexington Herald (Lexington, Kentucky). August 12, 1971.

[2] Ellenville Journal (Ellenville, New York). February 19, 1886.

[3] Ellenville Journal (Ellenville, New York). December 25, 1885.

[4] Ellenville Journal (Ellenville, New York). October 7, 1887.

[5] The Photographic Times. January 4, 1889. Vol. 19, No. 381.

[6] Ellenville Journal (Ellenville, New York). November 13, 1891.

[7] “Concerning the Aristotype.” St. Louis & Canadian Photographer. April, 1892. Vol. 10, No. 4.

[8] Ellenville Journal (Ellenville, New York). September 23, 1892.

[9] Ellenville Journal (Ellenville, New York). May 10, 1901.

[10] The St. Louis and Canadian Photographer. January, 1900. Vol. 24, No. 1.

[11] Ellenville Journal (Ellenville, New York). September 5, 1902.

[12] “Ellenville.” Kingston Daily Freeman (Kingston, New York). November 2, 1903.

[13] Ellenville Journal (Ellenville, New York). September 5, 1902.

[14] Ellenville Journal (Ellenville, New York). August 1, 1902.

Alfred Wurts Tice – Ellenville, NY Photographer

Sat, 22 Jul 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Introduction

Alfred Wurts Tice (1829-1909) was a popular photographer at the village of Ellenville in Ulster County, New York for nearly two decades from the early-to-mid 1860s to the early 1880s. In 1881 Tice left Ellenville to open a photograph gallery at Corry, Pennsylvania. He returned to Ellenville in 1895 and worked as an assistant in the gallery of A. V. Porter. Tice passed away in 1909.

Logo, Alfred Wurts Tice, Ellenville, NY

Biography

Alfred Wurts Tice was born on October 19, 1829 at Phillipsport, New York. He was the son of John Tice and Huldah (Gumaer) Tice.

The name Tice can be traced back to the earliest days of the country. It “is of Dutch origin, and in the early records of New York appears in many forms, such as Tys, Tysz, Thys, Thysen, Thyssen. There seem to have been two persons called Claes Thyssen in New York City, each having a child baptized there in 1654. Garret Thyssen had a child baptized in New York in 1665, and Anthony in 1682. There was a Jan Thyssen Buys in New York in 1684. It is possible that the child baptized in that year was his first born in America.”[1]

John Tice, Senior, Alfred’s grandfather, was baptized in Montgomery, New York on February 14, 1767. From Orange County, he went to Mamakating, near Phillipsport, in Sullivan County, New York, in 1799. He died on September 3, 1849.

“John Tice was a son of Joseph Henry Tice, who came from Germany and settled near Montgomery in Orange County about 1735. His father started with him to America, but died on the way and was buried in the ocean. Joseph Henry Tice was the ancestor of the family of that name in this part of the country. John Tice married Sally, a daughter of David Horton of Mamakating, and lived near the northerly end of the village of Phillipsport, near the old house on the westerly side of the valley road having a basement partly in the bank to its rear, and more recently known as the VanBuren house. Philip Tice, a brother of John, also settled in Mamakating about the same time as his brother, and married Phebe, another daughter of David Horton. To the former were born eight children, all of whom grew up to be men and women; to the latter were born twelve children; and Methodism has run through both families down to the present generation . . .

In the second year of the present century Mrs. Sally Tice was converted at one of the local meetings, and shortly afterward her husband, John Tice, was also soundly converted. They both joined the Methodist society at that place, though David Horton, the father of Mrs. Tice, being a Baptist and strongly attached to that organization, vehemently objected. In regular German fashion, John Tice and his wife accepted Christianity as a great truth, and immediately began to put it in practice. Ever afterward their house was consecrated to the Lord, and became a rallying point for Methodism.”[2]

John Tice, Junior, Alfred’s father, was born on October 21, 1804 and passed away on December 24, 1853. John “conducted a large general store at Phillipsport for many years, and also engaged in farming. He was an active member of the Methodist church. He married Huldah Gumaer, who was undoubtedly a descendent of the old family of that name at Port Jervis.”[3] Huldah, Alfred’s mother, was born on July 30, 1806 and passed away on August 22, 1868.

Alfred was the oldest of John and Huldah’s four children. Alfred’s siblings included Wickham, born December 2, 1831; Margaret, born January 13, 1834, wife of Gouverneur Nickerson; and Helen (Ellen), born on August 17 (19?), 1843, married Wesley Holmes. John and Huldah are buried at the Chester A. Stanton Memorial Cemetery in Wurtsboro, New York.

During his youth Alfred was educated in the public schools at Phillipsport.

The 1850 United States census showed Tice residing at the town of Mamakating in Sullivan County, New York. Alfred was living in the household of his parents John and Huldah. John and Wickham, Alfred’s brother, were listed with an occupation of farmer. Alfred was listed with an occupation of blacksmith.

Alfred was first married to Louisa ----, who was born on November 6, 1828(9) and died on November 17, 1852. He married a second time on October 1, 1854 to Irene Miller. The ceremony took place at Grahamsville, New York. Irene was born at Grahamsville, New York on April 7, 1825. Irene was the daughter of Joseph S. and Hannah W. Miller. Joseph had come to Grahamsville from Connecticut.

Sometime in the early 1850s Tice went to live at the village of Ellenville. James Strode Elston in The Tice Families In America, puts the year at 1850; while the obituary for Irene (Miller) Tice, Alfred’s wife, stated that the couple moved to Ellenville in 1854 soon after their marriage. In 1857 Alfred built a house at Ellenville which they owned for over 50 years.

Together Alfred and Irene had four children, including Royal, born January 21, 1856, died July 18, 1856; James W., born July 4, 1857, married Jennie ----, and lived in Chicago; John A., born June 29, 1859; and Perry S., born on January 24, 1865.

James W. Tice, Alfred’s son, was for many years a trusted employee of the Standard Watch Company in New York. In 1894 he was transferred to Chicago, where he assumed “the important position of manager of the Western Department. He receives an increased and very handsome salary.”[4] James passed away on January 20, 1936 at Chicago, Illinois.

John Arthur Tice, Alfred’s son, became a prominent member of the Ellenville Community. He passed away on June 25, 1923 after an attack of acute indigestion.

“John A. Tice, Secretary of the Ellenville Savings Bank, is a descendent of ---- Tice, who came to America upon the Mayflower. The descendants of the progenitor of this family are found in Dutchess and Sullivan Counties, from whence our subject’s father came into Ulster, some sixty years ago.

John A. Tice was born at Ellenville, June 29, 1859. He attended the public schools and finished his education at the Wyoming Seminary, of Pennsylvania. After leaving school he was engaged in the jewelry business for a time and later in the shoe business with Burr Eaton. In April, 1883, he accepted a position as bookkeeper in the Savings Bank, where he has since continued and of which he was elected secretary in 1906. Mr. Tice married Miss Harriet I. Hoar, and to them has been born one son, Rodger DuBois Tice. Mr. Tice is a Mason, Knight Templar, President of the Scoresby Hose Company for the past fifteen years, and one of Ellenville’s most influential and trustworthy business men. He is highly regarded by all.”[5]

Perry Schultz Tice, Alfred’s youngest son, died suddenly in June 1917 “while walking along the street on Monday evening, from heart failure. The body has been shipped to Ellenville for funeral and interment.”

“Perry S. Tice was 52 years of age and a son of A. Wurts Tice, one of the old residents of this village. He grew to manhood in this place, was educated in the Ellenville schools, and for quite a number of years was connected with the Ellenville Savings Bank. Upon leaving Ellenville some years ago, Mr. Tice went to Chicago, from there to Houston, Texas, where he has since been employed as a travelling salesman by a firm of that city, selling fire department supplies.

The news of his death came as a great shock to his relatives and many friends in this village, where he has been so well and popularly known. He is survived by two brothers, James Tice, of Chicago, Ill., and John A. Tice, of Ellenville.” [6]

In May 1863 Tice placed an advertisement in the Ellenville Journal for his photography business, which he had taken over from George H. Payne, who, in turn, had taken over from Jonathan Penny. The 37-year-old Penny was listed with an occupation of “artist” on the 1860 United States census. The gallery was located over Corbin’s Drug Street on Canal Street.

“Ambrotypes & Photographs! Having rented and fitted up the PICTURE GALLERY, formerly occupied by George H. Payne, Over Corbin’s Drug Store, Canal St., Ellenville, the subscriber is now ready to take Ambrotypes and Photographs! In the Best Style, and at low prices. His friends and the public are invited to GIVE HIM A TRIAL, as he feels assured that his pictures will prove entirely satisfactory in every respect. Call and See for Yourselves! Remember this place – Over Corbin’s Drug Store, Canal Street. A. W. Tice, Ellenville, May, 1863.”

Tice placed additional advertisements in the local newspaper during the mid-1860s, including the below examples.

January 7, 1865, Ellenville Journal

“Premium Picture Gallery! Ambrotypes, Photographs, Cartes de Visites, produced in a style not excelled anywhere. Call and see specimens. Entrance to Gallery next door to Corbin’s Drug Store. A. Wurts Tice, Ellenville, Dec. 17, 1864.”

September 8, 1866, Ellenville Journal

“A TALL MAN.– Saul, the first Hebrew king, stood “head and shoulders” above all others, and was a splendid specimen of a king and man. So are the Pictures from TICE’S Gallery unrivalled – Don’t be humbugged! Poor pictures are dear at any price! Ambrotypes, Photographs, Porcelain Pictures, Ferrotypes, & c., & c., made in the very best style, on as short notice, and at as low prices as at any other establishment. A perfectly satisfactory picture guaranteed. Don’t be humbugged!”

September 28, 1867, Ellenville Journal

“Photographs, Ambrotypes and Porcelain Pictures at the photograph saloon, over Childs & Smith’s Drug Store, where the subscriber has facilities for making and furnishing Pictures in any style, from a Plain Gem to a Life Size Photograph in Colors, and Prices Ranging Accordingly! Also, copying from small pictures done on reasonable terms. A. Wurts Tice, Ellenville, June 9, 1866.”

The 1870 United States census listed 40-year-old Tice as living in the town of Wawarsing, Ulster County, New York. Also listed in the household was his wife Irene and his three sons, James, John and Perry. Tice was listed with an occupation of photographer.

In addition to his portrait work, Tice issued a series of views under the title “Stereoscopic Views in the Vicinity of Ellenville.” Views included scenery in the village of Ellenville and around the southern edge of the Catskill Mountains.

In June 1871 the Ellenville Journal wrote about some of Tice’s recent photographic work. “Mr. Tice has left on our table a number of handsome stereoscopic views, including the “Neversink River Bridge and Trestle,” “Little Falls and Trestle,” and “Little Falls.” These are very fine pictures, neatly mounted in the usual style for the stereoscope. Mr. Tice is making a view of Honk Falls near Napanoch, and proposes to make a number of others of local interest.”

Tice advertised his business in the Gazetteer and Business Directory of Ulster County, N.Y. for 1871-1872. Included was a graphic advertisement on page 324 and a brief description on page 323.

“A. Wurts Tice, Photographer, Canal Street, Ellenville, N.Y., whose card appears on page 330, is getting out some of the finest pictures to be found in Ulster County. His pictures have a life-like expression, rendering them very desirable. Let those who wish for good pictures, at low prices, give him a call, and he will satisfy the most exacting.

The December 13, 1906 issue of the Ellenville Journal wrote of a photograph taken by Tice in 1871, and his following injury.

“A photograph hanging in the office of the Journal editor presents an excellent likeness of Pastor Clarke and each of the officers and teachers of the Ellenville M. E. Sunday School in 1871, when it was taken by A. W. Tice, the figures about thirty in number being grouped on the steps of the Methodist church. The picture, though hanging for thirty-five years, well attests the skill of the artist. By the way, Mr. Tice, who soon afterward lost an eye by a flying chip from a casting in a machine shop, is still able to do fine retouching as assistant to A. V. Porter.”

Below are several additional advertisements placed by Tice in the local newspaper to promote his photograph business.

October 19, 1876, Ellenville, Journal

“A. Wurts Tice, Photographer, Over Corbin’s Drug Store, opposite Liberty Square. Pictures of all kinds and styles; prices according.”

June 22, 1877, Ellenville Journal

“Photographs! Photographs! If you want to get faithful likenesses, artistically finished, cheap, visit the Photographic Studio of A. Wurts Tice, The Ellenville Photographer.

It is not necessary to patronize a “travelling artist,” when an old neighbor and life-long resident of the town can do the work as well. Come and see me.

All kinds of Portraits taken, from Imperials down to Tin Types.

A. WURTS TICE, Canal street, over Meinhold’s store, Ellenville, June 22, 1877.”

The 1880 United States census listed Tice living in the village of Ellenville, town of Wawarsing, in Ulster County, New York. Also living in the household were his wife Irene and his three sons 22-year-old James, 20-year-old John and 15-year-old Perry. Tice was listed with an occupation of photographer, James as a clerk, John as a clerk in a boot and shoe store and Perry as a clerk in the Savings Bank.

In 1881 Tice left Ellenville to establish a new gallery at the city of Corry in northwestern Pennsylvania. During a return to Ellenville in 1885, “after an absence of three years,” Tice reported that “business shows some signs of brightening up.”[7] Tice operated his photograph gallery at the village of Corry for approximately 15 years.

In 1895 it was reported that “A. Wurts Tice, who has been away from Ellenville for a term of years, most of which time he spent at Corry, Pa., has returned to town, intending to remain here. Mr. and Mrs. Tice will occupy a portion of their dwelling house on Canal street.”[8] He lived at Ellenville for the remainder of his life.

For some time after his return to Ellenville Tice worked as an assistant to A. V. Porter retouching photographs. Albert V. Porter was a popular portrait and landscape photographer at the village of Ellenville in Ulster County, New York. Porter, after many years working at a knife factory, took over the studio of W. S. Davis in the early 1900s and successfully served the Ellenville community for nearly 20 years. By late 1918 Porter faced a significant health challenge in losing his eyesight, and therefore retired from the photography business and sold his studio to Casper Cosenza.

The 1900 United States census listed 70-year-old Tice living in the village of Ellenville in Ulster County, New York. Also in the household was his 74-year-old wife Irene. The census showed that Alfred and Irene had four children, of which three were living. Tice was listed with an occupation of photographer.

Legacy

Alfred Wurts Tice was a well-respected member of the Ellenville community. “He was an upright, conscientious citizen, respected by all, a member of the Methodist church, and of Wawarsing Lodge, No. 582, of the Masonic fraternity.”[9]

Alfred Wurts Tice passed away after a short illness on February 5, 1909 at Ellenville, New York. He was survived by his wife, to whom he had been married for over 50 years, and three sons, John A. Tice, secretary of the Ellenville Savings Bank, and James and Perry of Chicago. He is buried at Fantinekill Cemetery in Ellenville, New York.

Irene Miller Tice, Alfred’s wife, passed away at her home on September 14, 1910. “Mrs. Tice had been in her usual good health until about ten days ago and not seriously ill since. She passed a good night but at five o’clock called for a drink of water and expired before it could be given her . . . Mrs. Tice was a lifelong member of the Methodist Church and active in its work. For many years she conducted a mission Sunday school at the West End, over the store of Jesse M. Low, which did a great deal of good.”[10] The funeral services were held at the home of son John A. Tice on Centre Street. Irene Tice is buried with her husband at Fantinekill Cemetery.

[1] Reynolds, Cuyler. Genealogical and Family History of Southern New York and the Hudson River Valley. New York: Lewis Historical Publishing Company, 1914. p. 1009.

[2] Gray, John G. History of the Rise and Progress of the Methodist Episcopal Church in the Wawarsing and Mamakating Valleys. Ellenville, N.Y.: Charles F. Taylor, 1897. pp. 6-8.

[3] Reynolds, Cuyler. Genealogical and Family History of Southern New York and the Hudson River Valley. New York: Lewis Historical Publishing Company, 1914. p. 1010.

[4] Ellenville Journal (Ellenville, New York). August 17, 1894.

[5] Clearwater Alphonso T. The History of Ulster County, New York. Kingston, New York: W. J. Van Deusen, 1907. p. 693.

[6] Middletown Times-Press (Middletown, New York). June 14, 1917.

[7] Ellenville Journal (Ellenville, New York). July 17, 1885.

[8] Ellenville Journal (Ellenville, New York). December 13, 1895.

[9] Reynolds, Cuyler. Genealogical and Family History of Southern New York and the Hudson River Valley. New York: Lewis Historical Publishing Company, 1914. p. 1010.

[10] “Local Death Record.” Kingston Daily Freeman (Kingston, New York). October 15, 1910.

J. J. Cornish – Walton, New York Photographer

Sat, 15 Jul 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Introduction

J. J. Cornish was a photographer during the early 1870s at the village of Walton in the western Catskills of Delaware County, New York. Cornish had previously worked as a photographer for most of the 1860s at Dodgeville, Wisconsin; and after leaving Walton he worked as a photographer at several small villages in Colorado.

G. S. Mead's Residence. Author's collection.

Business Imprint, J. J. Cornish, Walton, N.Y. Author's collection.

Biography

John Jay Cornish was born on June 15, 1824, the son of Jacob Miller Cornish (1791-1852) and Susan (Patricke) Cornish (1796-1862). Jacob and Susan were married in New York City on January 1, 1818. Jacob worked as a carpenter and lived at Pine Hill, New York.

John was one of eight children. His siblings included William Henry (b. 1818); Alexander Hamilton (b. 1821); Nathaniel (b. 1822); Cornelius (b. 1826); James Chilson (b. 1829); Benjamin Franklin (b. 1833); and Abraham Loami (b. 1835).

William is supposed to have been killed by Quantrill’s Guerillas in Missouri during the Civil War. Alexander was a carpenter who lived for some years at Lexington, New York, but later moved to Menlo Park, New Jersey. Nathaniel died young when he was around two years old. Cornelius died young, although at what age is unknown. James was a carpenter and builder, being credited with constructing over 33 churches in various parts of New York. James later operated the Cornish House, a popular boarding house, at Pine Hill, New York. Benjamin worked as a manufacturer of window sash and lived at Pine Hill, New York. Abraham was a veteran of the Civil War, and worked as a silver plater and lived in Brooklyn, New York.

This line of the Cornish family can be traced back from John seven generations to Thomas Cornish, who settled at Newtown, New York (Long Island) very soon after its settlement in 1651. Newtown was renamed to Elmhurst in 1897. Thomas worked as a maker of pipe staves, or cooper.

Benjamin Cornish, John’s grandfather, was born in 1749. He married Freelove Miller, of Newtown, New York. “He was one of the leading citizens of Newtown, N.Y., both in church and town affairs. The church there was destroyed by the British soldiers during their occupation of New York in the Revolutionary War, and the organization was broken up and dispersed, and he and his wife, with three or four others, were all who gathered together again after the war to reorganize and rebuild the church. The British army was encamped near by his home all through the war, and the soldiers robbed him and his house of nearly everything that was of use or value that they could carry away. He seemed to be the particular object of their annoyance and abuse because of his known patriotic sentiments.”[1]

John married Sarah Jane Bowne (1824-1899), of New York City, on June 13, 1847. Sarah was born on February 23, 1824 at Paterson, New Jersey. John and Sarah had seven children, including Marcia E. (1853-1859); Susan A. (b. 1855); Mary Ida (b. 1857); Florence E. (b. 1859); Francis E. (b. 1862); Sarah Emma (b. 1865); and John A. (1867-1955).

Sarah passed away at the age of 75 on Friday night, February 24, 1899 at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Kennedy, after a long illness. She is buried at the Hillside Cemetery in Saguache, Colorado. Sarah was well regarded in the community, as per her obituary published in the Saguache Advance.

“She has left six children behind in sorrow, to meet her husband in God’s immediate presence who preceded her about four months.

The last three years she had been a great sufferer a part of the time. During these ordeals of bodily affliction, she evidenced to the satisfaction of all who saw her what only a child of God can endure and not complain. She never murmured in the midst of numerous combined afflictions.

She had been a member of the M. E. Church for fifty years, upright and consistent. She was a kind hearted mother and wife and a devout Christian faithful unto death. She has gone to her reward as a devout disciple of Christ. May her remaining children “fight that good fight of faith” and meet her in the glories of heaven. Pastor.”

The 1860 United States census listed John as residing at Merrimac in Sauk County, Wisconsin. Also living in the household was his wife, Sarah Jane; 64-year-old Marcia Bowne; his daughter, 4-year-old Susan Amelie; his daughter, 2-year-old Mary Ida; and his daughter, 8-month-old Florence Ella. John was listed with an occupation of carpenter. The three daughters were all listed as having been born in Wisconsin, meaning it is likely that John was living in Wisconsin at least by the mid-1850s.

By the year 1861 John seems to have switched careers from carpentry to photography. That year, while living at Dodgeville, Wisconsin, he placed an advertisement in the local newspaper for his new photography business.

“Something Worth Having – A Good Picture. J. J. Cornish would respectfully inform the public that he is prepared to take Ambrotypes, Melainotypes, Carte De Visites, Views of Residences, Locket Pictures taken and old pictures copied, he is fitted up expressly for the business, having a skylight, an indispensable article for getting a good picture.

Please call at the car nearly opposite the Court House and see his Premium Pictures.

Dodgeville, November 13th, 1861.”[2]

Cornish quickly established a reputation for excellence. At the 1861 Iowa County Fair (Dodgeville is located in Iowa County, Wisconsin) he won an award for “best ambrotype.” The following years, in 1862 and 1863, he won the award for best daguerreotype and for the best ambrotype. In 1864 and 1865 he won the award for “best ambrotypes” and for “best photographs.”

In 1866 and 1867, in addition to winning “best ambrotypes” and “best photographs,” Cornish was also awarded the premium for “best porcelain pictures.” At the 1867 fair, the local newspaper noted that “Mr. Cornish displayed his usual taste in the arrangement of his splendid lot of sun pictures. His extra talent in the picture business has shut out competition, and he consequently always gets the first premiums.”[3]

In 1862, the Dodgeville Chronicle published a poem titled “The Picture” about Cornish and his photography business.

“I tell you friends, I see’d a sight,

I swow it beats all nater,

A sausage stuffer set on legs,

Just like some tarnal critter.

The man what keeps the pesky thing,

Has other funny fixtures,

Inside his little Rail Road car,

Where he takes the folk’s pictures.

And if you go inside his car

And sit down just a minit,

The deuced little varmint’s sure

To have your picture in it.

He calls some picturs Ambrotypes,

And when he goes to take ‘em,

He pulls the muzzle off its nose,

And it paints your face Verbatim.

Or if you wish another kind,

That’s struck fast on’ter paper,

The dasted thing, can do it up,

To beat all human nater.

It must a tuck a mighty pile,

To buy the little critter,

And get them little boxes too,

To put the picters inter.

But still the pictures are so cheap,

That all of you might have ‘em,

And give one to your sweethearts, when,

You’r goin’ off to leave ‘em.

And now, all you that wants a picter

That’s made ’th’out paint or varnish,

Take my advice and go and see,

The Artist John J. Cornish.”

Throughout the 1860s the Dodgeville Chronicle, the local newspaper, carried various advertisements from Cornish and also published updates on his photographic business.

April 2, 1863, Dodgeville Chronicle

“Mr. Cornish has just been fixing up his car in first class order, where he will be found ready to take pictures in the highest style of the art, as good as the best, and as cheap as the cheapest.”

April 23, 1863, Dodgeville Chronicle

“Something Worth Having – A Good Picture. J. J. Cornish would respectfully inform the public that he is prepared to take photographs, carte de visites, vignetts, ambrotypes, melanotypes, taken in the highest style of the ART. View of Residencies, Locket pictures taken and old pictures copied.

Persons living at a distance wishing Photographs or Carte De Visites, by leaving their address can have them mailed.

1-16 size card pictures, of one person, 12 for $1.00.

Carte De Visites, of one person, 3 for $1.00.

Vignetts, of one person, 3 for $1.00.

Large sized photographs put up to suit purchasers. Oval, Gilt, and Rosewood frames, also Photograph Albums.

He is fitted up expressly for the business, having a skylight, an indispensable article for getting a good picture. Please call the car opposite the Court House, and see his Pictures.

Dodgeville, January 20th, 1863.”

April 23, 1863, Dodgeville Chronicle

“Mr. J. J. Cornish has just been fitting up his car in a handsome manner, and is now ready to attend to all orders for pictures. See advertisement in another column.”

July 2, 1863, Dodgeville Chronicle

“THANKS.– That Mammoth pie plant, & c., from the garden of Mr. Cornish was quite a treat. Success to him. And we would just make a passing remark to those who wish to preserve the life features of themselves or their friends, they cannot do better than go to his car and have their photographs & c., taken. He will satisfy you, our word for it.”

August 20, 1863, Dodgeville Chronicle

“We paid a visit the other day to the Photographic car of friend Cornish, and were shown some of the finest new specimens of work that we have seen for many a day. Mr. Cornish is a true artist, and those wanting good pictures cannot do better than to patronize home manufacture.”

December 10, 1863, Dodgeville Chronicle

“The Holidays are coming. For nice pictures go to Cornish’s.”

February 18, 1864, Dodgeville Chronicle

“Secure the shadow, ere the substance fade.” – And the best place to secure that perfect shadow, in Iowa County, is without exception at J. J. Cornish’s Photographic Gallery in Dodgeville.

Mr. Cornish has been with us some time, and deserves considerable credit for his perseverance in building up quite a respectable business, out of the poorest kind of a show. He has lately received from New York one of those large sized cameras, the best in use; it is warranted to take a perfect picture, at any distance from three feet to six miles, when worked by one who understands its use, and every one knows that Mr. C. is a thorough artist, and being fully prepared with apparatus, chemicals, cases, mats, frames, & c, to take and finish those large and justly admired photographs, in the best style of the art, we would recommend those wishing such to call on Mr. C. at an early day.”

March 24, 1864, Dodgeville Chronicle

“Something New.– Our friend J. J. Cornish, Photographic Artist, is determined to be up to the times, and has now procured from Chicago, a splendid view of the far-famed Hudson River; it is got good style, and sets off the background of a photograph very handsomely. If you want your Carte de Visite in good style, surrounded by beautiful scenery, call at J. J. Cornish’s Photographic Gallery.”

July 21, 1864, Dodgeville Chronicle

“Our excellent artist J. J. Cornish got a very good and almost instantaneous photograph of YANKEE ROBINSON’S band carriage, private carriage, & c. in front of his rooms, while they were in town, including over thirty persons in the street, and on the steps of the Court House. Since Mr. Cornish has made so many additions and improvements to his gallery, he cannot be beat in this part of the State for taking perfect life-like pictures, scenes or views.”

July 28, 1864, Dodgeville Chronicle

“Signs of Prosperity.– Our energetic citizen artist, J. J. Cornish, Esq., is engaged in putting up a fine business building adjoining the residence of A. B. Robinson. Success to you friend C.”

October 20, 1864, Dodgeville Chronicle

“By calling on J. J. Cornish you can see a stock of the best Photographic Albums ever brought to Town. Go soon and secure one before they are all gone, for they are going like hot cakes.”

November 17, 1864, Dodgeville Chronicle

“The other day we chanced to step into the new Photograph Gallery of our friend J. J. Cornish, and we must confess that we were pleasingly surprised to see with what taste and good judgment his rooms were fitted up. They are by a long way superior to anything we had seen in this part of the country, and being of ample size and well furnished, they look far more like business than the little cooped up place where the photographs and ambrotypes which have taken the first premiums at our County Fairs, for the last three years have been made.

The Gallery has been built expressly for the business, and consequently is furnished with one of the best sky-lights in the country, and has other conveniences necessary to the successful development of photographs. Now we believe that most, if not all, of our readers know that Mr. Cornish is a first-class artist, for a great many have tried him, and others have had our testimony heretofore, but as a gentle reminder or a refreshener of the memory, we would just state that he actually is the best artist in this part of the State, and can furnish pictures in as good style as can be done at any other place. By all means give him a call.”

April 13, 1865, Dodgeville Chronicle

“Saved from Deserting. How inexorable are the laws of war; and how harsh – and at times we are led to say unjust – are some of the regulations, by which our country’s brave defenders are governed.

One brave fellow, who at the first call of his country, left his wife and three sickly children, had served faithfully more than two years; had been in almost every battle, was wounded nine times – thinking it an honor to be wounded in his country’s service. But the hour of temptation came. His wife wrote him that the children had grown quite healthy, and that her friends complimented her by saying she looked better than ever she did before.

His desire to see his wife and family was now intense, he had repeatedly asked for a furlough, and as often been refused; finally he had concluded to desert the service and see them, if he lost his life in so doing. But he was prevented; his wife knowing his anxiety to see them, paid a visit to J. J. Cornish, Photographic Artist, of Dodgeville, Wis., and procuring pictures of the whole family, sent them to him. On their arrival, the husband pronounced them so good and life-like, that he determined not to desert; and to this day the wife thanks Mr. Cornish for saving her husband from utter disgrace and probably an ignominious death, by taking such good photographs of herself and children.”

August 10, 1865, Dodgeville Chronicle

“Our good looking photographic friend, Cornish, was quite a heavy loser by the hail storm in the breaking of nearly every light of glass in his fine large skylight; but like the energetic fellow that he is, all damage is repaired, and today he is again busy taking pictures as if not a pane of glass had been broken. Success to you, friend C.”

December 21, 1865, Dodgeville Chronicle

“Oh wad some pow’r the giftie gie us.

To see oursel’s as ithers see us.”

J. J. Cornish, photographic artist of Dodgeville, possesses that giftie, in a larger degree than any other man in Iowa County, and he is ready and willing to gie it to anyone on application. In other words, he takes the most perfect likenesses, either ambrotypes, photographs, or the later styles of pictures. They are so perfect that we may look on them and “see oursel’s as ithers see us.” Little did the poet think in his day, that art would ever arrive at such perfection. His porcelain pictures, a new thing in this part of the world, are really splendid. They are without doubt, the most perfect likeness of anything yet produced. Don’t fail to call on J. J. Cornish, at this gallery over the Post Office, if for no other purpose, by all means call and see his new style of pictures.”

January 4, 1866, Dodgeville Chronicle

“Cornish, being determined not to be behind the times, has so perfected his arrangements that he is now prepared to take those celebrated Porcelain pictures. So if you want a portrait taken in the latest and best style of the art, go to Cornish’s.”

May 31, 1866, Dodgeville Chronicle

“People come from Mineral Point, Linden, Highland, and in fact, every other part of the county, to let J. J. Cornish have a look at them through his excellent camera. Mr. Cornish’s five year’s operations in this place have established his character as a Photographer, and it now stands far ahead of any other person in this part of the state.”

February 7, 1867 advertisement, Dodgeville Chronicle

“J. J. Cornish’s Photographic Gallery. Dodgeville, Wisconsin. Being monthly in receipt of all the improvements and novelties in Europe and eastern cities, is now better prepared than ever to put up all styles and sizes of PICTURES. He also keeps constantly on hand Picture Frames consisting of Gilt, Rose Wood, Black Walnut, and other kinds. Also, albums of different styles and prices, for sale cheap. Give him a call – opposite court house. Dodgeville, February 7, 1867.”

February 7, 1867, Dodgeville Chronicle

“Cornish is still at the head of his profession in this part of the world. His photographs and porcelain pictures are unsurpassed, and so perfect are they that we are inclined to think they are unsurpassable.”

February 14, 1867, Dodgeville Chronicle

“Do our readers generally know that Cornish is now prepared to take those splendid cabinet sized pictures? If they never did before, they know now. If you want a good picture call and get one of these celebrated pictures of Cornish.”

December 6, 1867, Dodgeville Chronicle

“Those patent chain back Albums which Cornish is offering for sale, are truly nice. They are handsome, good, cheap and durable.”

June 12, 1868 advertisement, Dodgeville Chronicle

“Something New.– Cornish, of the Dodgeville photographic gallery has purchased the right of this county for a new invention, “Robinson’s Photograph Albums, or revolving pictures.” It is an elegant little box, about 6 by 10 inches, and 6 inches high; a beautiful ornament for a center table, and so arranged that the pictures can all be seen, 50 in number, by turning a knob, without opening the album. But what is the use of our attempting to describe it, for when we have finished you would of course go and see it, and then would have a better idea of it than we could give you in a whole page.”

July 3, 1868 advertisement, Dodgeville Chronicle

“J. J. Cornish, Photographic Artist, and dealer in photographs, chromos, lithographs, steel engravings, stereoscopic views & stereoscopes, revolving albums, chain back and common albums, cord & tassels, frames & c. & c. Pictures framed to order.

Persons wanting Albums should call and see my revolving albums. They are the best article ever introduced for the preservation of pictures.

Dodgeville, July 3, 1868.”

J. J. Cornish, Photographic Artist

September 4, 1868, Dodgeville Chronicle

“J. J. Cornish, Photographic Artist, has closed his gallery for the present to complete the job he has been at for several weeks, of putting in one of the best skylights in the west. It is a style of skylight which has been thoroughly tried in the east, and has answered so well, that it is rapidly superseding all others, and as Mr. Cornish wants to make as good pictures as any artist in the United States, he concluded he must have one of these lights. He promises to have his improvements all completed and to open again in about two weeks.”

December 11, 1868, Dodgeville Chronicle

“Cornish has a fine collection of elegant pictures, which are very appropriate for holiday presents. Call and see them.”

December 18, 1868, Dodgeville Chronicle

“We would call the attention of the marriageably inclined to a novelty “photographic marriage certificate,” for sale at “Cornish’s gallery and the Primitive Methodist parsonage” – that is Cornish will take your photograph, and Rev. Alderson will perform the ceremony and furnish the certificate, which is really beautiful. We are printing some, not quite so elaborate, the price of which will bring them within the reach of all.”

December 25, 1868, Dodgeville Chronicle

“Cornish, at his gallery, has a large and beautiful assortment of pictures, albums, etc., suitable for holiday gifts.”

January 1, 1869, Dodgeville Chronicle

“J. J. Cornish at the Dodgeville photographic gallery has a large and well selected assortment of steel engravings, chromos, and other pictures and photographic albums, which are “in seasons” as presents at all times. He is the best artist in this part of the state, invariably taking the premiums at the county fair.”

February 12, 1869, Dodgeville Chronicle

“How much money would be necessary to buy the picture of a departed friend or relative? How would you like to part with the likeness of little Minnie, who died last summer? Don’t wait till it is too late, but get a copy of all your children and relatives. You will prize them highly in the coming years. Mr. Cornish is doing some excellent work in the photograph line. Give him a call at once.”

In June 1869, after approximately eight years at Dodgeville, Cornish made plans to move to New York. His gallery was taken over by Isaac C. Jones.

“Going.– The many friends of John J. Cornish will be sorry to hear that he leaves with his family for New York on Monday next. Mr. Cornish came to this village about eight years ago. He had a small photograph car, and a very limited stock. Being a first class artist, and a very industrious man, he gradually increased his business and facilities until he was acknowledged the best artist in this part of the country. He built a fine building on Iowa street, and for years has been doing a very good business. But his family growing up, and being ambitious, he has concluded to move to a larger field for operation. Mr. Cornish has always been recognized as an enterprising, liberal and good citizen, and we part with him with many regrets, but with every wish for his future success, health and happiness.”[4]

By the summer of 1869 Cornish was living at the village of Walton in Delaware County, New York. He quickly went to work, taking stereoscopic views of the scenery in and around Walton. By early 1870 he had fitted out photographic rooms over J. B. Gray’s Trimming Shop on North Street. In April 1870 Cornish had “the frame up for his new house and photograph rooms, near the residence of H. B. Niles.”[5]

By June 1870 Corning had moved from J. B. Gray’s place to new rooms at his residence, at the head of North Street, “where he claims to have the best facilities in the county for taking a good picture.”[6] An advertisement in the local newspaper on November 2, 1870 placed the Cornish gallery “three doors above the Methodist Church, on North Street, Walton, N.Y.”

The 1870 United States census listed 46-year-old John as residing in the village of Walton in Delaware County, New York. He was living with his brother, James C. Cornish, and his family. John was listed with an occupation of photographer. James Marion, John’s nephew, was listed with an occupation of apprentice photographer. James was working as a carpenter. John’s wife and children were not listed as residing in Walton.

On February 8, 1871 the Walton Chronicle wrote that “we are in receipt of a winter view of Mead’s Dam, taken by our excellent Photographic Artist, Mr. J. J. Cornish. It was taken as a stereoscopic view, and will go with the other views of Walton, taken last summer. Mr. Cornish’s views are equal to the best views made by New York City artists.”[7] Cornish continued to advertise his gallery at Walton in May 1871.

At this time, it is not known how long Cornish remained at Walton beyond 1871, but by around 1880 he had moved to Colorado, where he was working as a photographer at the village of Del Norte. The 1880 United States census listed Cornish as residing at Del Norte in Rio Grande County, Colorado. He was listed with an occupation of photographer. He was listed as living alone, with his family not being listed with him on the census.

The town of Del Norte was established in 1874, only six years before Cornish’s approximate arrival. It originally served as a base camp for the workers in the nearby gold and silver mines. As the town grew, it also served as the social, financial and commercial center for nearby communities, including Silverton, Platoro, and Lake City. Today Del Norte, supported by the local farming, agricultural and tourism industries, continues to serve as the county seat for Rio Grande County, Colorado.

In May 1881 the village of Del Norte was the location of great excitement; scenes of which Cornish was able to photograph. Arthur Pond, using the alias Billy Leroy, and his brother, Silas Pond, using the alias Samuel Potter, had conducted a robbery of the Barlow & Sanderson stagecoach on May 18 in the area, six miles east of Clear Creek. A search party from Del Norte was quickly organized to track down the robbers. Both Pond brothers were captured by the local authorities soon thereafter and taken to the jail at Del Norte.

The citizens of Del Norte had ideas other than the normal course of legal proceedings. A large mob of around 40 armed men went to the jail on the night of May 23. They overpowered the sheriff and the guards, pulled the two robbers outside, placed them in a wagon, took them to a large cottonwood tree located near the depot on the north side of town, and they were hanged.

The bodies were photographed by J. J. Cornish, first at the cottonwood tree where they were hung, and again when they, “stiff as steel bars,” were propped up against the outside of the jail. These photographs, with the caption “Adios, Pond Bros. – road agents,” were then offered for sale by Cornish to the citizens of Del Norte. Arthur and Silas Pond were buried in a distant section of the Del Norte Cemetery.

The San Juan Prospector, the local newspaper, published a detailed article about the incident in their May 28, 1881 issue. The title of article was “Buzzard Meat,” and was followed by the sub-titles of “Leroy and Potter, Road Agents and Desperadoes, Captured by Del Norters. They register at the Del Norte Jail, are Taken out by Masked Men, and “Fixed” for the Coyotes. Both Men Die Game, Not Even a Whisper for Mercy or Time to Pray. Broken Necks are Trumps, and Billy and Sammy Ornament the Lower Pits of Hades. Full Particulars of the Picnic, From the Robbery to Rope. Bad Men.”

In 1882, the Saguache Advance, the local newspaper, wrote a brief profile about Cornish, praising his abilities as a photographer and his “indomitable pluck.”

“Mr. Cornish, our photographer, is a genius who ought to be liberally patronized. He has the free use of only his left hand, and yet he has built his present house and rooms, has manufactured his own instruments so that they can be operated with the left hand, and he now has all arranged for doing first-class work. He has done all this while fighting against ill health. An old photographer who recently visited his photograph gallery, told your correspondent that Mr. Cornish had his lighting facilities so arranged that they were the best in the state outside of Denver. He does good work. A man who shows such indomitable pluck, and who is master of his art, deserves a liberal patronage from home and abroad.”[8]

In 1884 Cornish advertised his business in the local newspaper. The advertisement read “San Juan Photographic Art Gallery. J. J. Cornish, Artist. I defy all honorable competition in quality or price, and have a good stock of photographic material on hand that will be made up at the lowest living prices. Examine prices and work. No Sunday work.”[9] That same year it was advertised that Cornish’s stereoscopic views were for sale at the business of Charles Tucker.

In 1885 the local newspaper wrote that “Mr. Cornish, the photographer, says he takes the Queen Bee for the jokes. The ladies should appreciate the fact that Del Norte has one of the best photographers in the country, and an advocate for woman’s political equality, besides a good, jolly, industrious citizen.”[10]

That same year, in 1885, it was advertised that there was a “great reduction in prices at J. J. Cornish’s San Juan Art Gallery. Call and see before going elsewhere.”

The 1885 Colorado state census listed Cornish as residing in Rio Grande County, Colorado. He was living with his wife Sarah and his 18-year-old son John. Cornish was listed with an occupation of photographer. Sarah was listed as “keeping house” and John was listed as “at home.”

Some of the scenic works taken by J. J. Cornish were included as part of a series titled “Colorado Views.” According to T. K. Treadwell and William C. Darrah in their book Photographers of the United States of America, there were approximately 89 views in the series. Subjects included local scenery, hunting, churches, and much more. A few of the titles in this series include:

No. 21, Little Annie Tramway, Summit Dist, Alt. 12,000 ft.
No. 71, Summitville, Colorado, Alt. 11,300.

No. 21. Little Annie Tramway, Summit Dist., Alt 12,000 ft. Boston Public Library.

The Yale University Library at New Haven, Connecticut is home to a wide-ranging collection of stereoviews taken by J. J. Cornish. The Yale University archive classified the stereoviews into two series; first, scenes in and around Del Norte and, second, scenes in and around the Summitville Mining District. It is estimated that these views were taken circa 1880.

Stereograph views of Del Norte, Rio Grande, Colorado.

No. 1. Del Norte, from Lookout Mountain.

No. 2. West Side Spruce St. Del Norte, Colo.

No. 3. Del Norte, Colo. from east cliff: Columbia Avenue, Del Norte.

No. 4. Hotel Grand Avenue, Del Norte.

No. 5. South Lookout Mountain. From Rio Grande River

No 11. School-House Del Norte.

No. 12. M. E. Church, Del Norte.

No 15. Varg[?]on Place, Del Norte.

No. 35. San Juan Mountain's from Continental Divide.

No. 38. Rio Grande at Del Norte.

No. 41. Presbyterian Church. Del Norte, Colo.

No. 43. Presbyterian Church interior. Del Norte, Colo.

No. 44. Presbyterian Church. Del Norte, Colo.

No. 45. Baldy Mountain and Lake, Alt 13000 ft.

No. 48. Baldy Mountain East Lake, Alt 13150 ft.

No. 49. Baldy Mountain Lake, Alt 13100 ft.

No. 55. Natural Wall, Saguache Co. Colo.

No. 57. Natural Wall & Great Arch. Saguache Co. Colo.

No. 58. Great hole in the Natural Wall. Saguache Co. Colo.

No. 64. Natural Arch on Dry Creek Colo.

No. 80. Del Norte. Colo. from North Lookout Mountain.

No. 81. Table Mountain from continental divide.

No. 84. Palace Rock on Pine Creek.

Alt. No. 88. On snowy peaks of San Juan, Aug 31st Alt 13300 ft.

No. 111. R. C. Nisbet's resident on the Rio Grande. Burger & Alice Del Norte, Colo.

No. 137. Observatory of Presbyterian College of the south west.

Stereograph views of Summitville Mining District, Rio Grande County, Colorado.

No. 1. Looking west Summit district.

No. 12. First school at Summitville. Clara Larson Teacher 1843.

No. 14. South Mountain Summit Dit.

No. 16. South Mountain Summit Dist, Alt 12,700 ft.

No. 17. Looking east from above Mills Summit Dit.

No. 19. M. Bowen's Ida Tunnel Summit Dist. Alt. 11800 ft.

No. 22. Little Annie Mine, Summit Dist, Alt. 12,000 ft.

No. 26. Little Annie Cabin. Summit Dist.

No. 31. Bobtail Lode Summit Dist. Alt 12200 ft.

No. 37. Looking up Pines Creek.

No. 65. Looking down the Summitville Tole Road.

No. 70. Summitville from Iron Springs. Alt 11,300 ft.

No. 74. Iowa & Colo? House Summit Dist. Alt 11900 ft.

No. 76. East side South Mountain Summit Dist. Alt. 12,100 ft.

No. 77. Summitville from Continental Divide Alt. 11,900 ft.

No. 78. Cropsey Mill Summit Dist. Alt. 11,800 ft.

No. 79. Miners home Summit Dist Alt. 11,100 ft. Aug 30 1832.

In 1889 “Mr. J. J. Cornish, recently from Del Norte, has located on the Navajo, where he has taken up a valuable ranch. He and his wife were in town Tuesday taking out their homestead papers.”[11]

In the early 1890s Cornish was still working in the photography industry. The Colorado state business directory listed Cornish as residing in Chromo from 1890 until his passing in 1898. The local newspaper wrote about some of the developments in his business during these years.

March 12, 1891, Pagosa Spring News. “Mr. Cornish is working on a building which he will occupy when finished as artist’s and assayer’s rooms.”

June 13, 1891, San Juan Prospector. “E. F. Hilton, formerly of Alamosa, has moved his photographic gallery to Del Norte, and will occupy the old Cornish stand on Spruce street. Mr. Hilton advertises in our Business News department this week, and has come to stay. Drop in and look at his work.”

November 3, 1892, “Chromo News,” Pagosa Spring News. “Mr. Cornish has completed his photograph gallery. It is one of the neatest rooms in the county.”

November 10, 1892, Pagosa Spring News. “While at Chromo last week the writer was shown through the photograph gallery of J. J. Cornish. Mr. Cornish’s gallery is fixed up with all modern conveniences and would be good enough for any town of five thousand people. Mr. Cornish’s work is second to none.”

Legacy

Although his time at Walton, New York was relatively brief, Cornish contributed to the village’s outstanding reputation for offering first-class photographic rooms. Other photographers of note that have operated at Walton included Frank L. Sprague, Hiram H. Miller, G. W. Simpkins, the Kinch Brothers, Burton Hine and many others. Cornish was highly regarded for his photographic abilities wherever he worked.

John Jay Cornish, “an old resident of Del Norte,” passed away on October 26, 1898 at the residence of Milton Welch in Chromo, Colorado. He is buried at Chromo Cemetery in Archuleta County, Colorado.

[1] Cornish, Joseph E. The History and Genealogy of the Cornish Families in America. Boston: Geo. H. Ellis Co., 1907. pp. 262-263.

[2] Dodgeville Chronicle (Dodgeville, Wisconsin). September 18, 1862.

[3] Dodgeville Chronicle (Dodgeville, Wisconsin). October 4, 1867.

[4] “Going.” Dodgeville Chronicle (Dodgeville, Wisconsin). June 25, 1869.

[5] Walton Chronicle (Walton, New York). April 27, 1870.

[6] Walton Chronicle (Walton, New York). June 22, 1870.

[7] Walton Chronicle (Walton, New York). February 8, 1871.

[8] Saguache Advance. June 1, 1882.

[9] San Juan Prospector. February 2, 1884.

[10] The Queen Bee. January 21, 1885.

[11] San Juan Prospector. August 31, 1889.

New Gallery: Albert V. Porter, Ellenville, NY Photographer

Sat, 08 Jul 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Albert V. Porter was a popular portrait and landscape photographer at the village of Ellenville in Ulster County, New York. He took over the studio of W. S. Davis in the early 1900s and successfully served the Ellenville community for nearly 20 years. By late 1918 Porter faced a significant health challenge in losing his eyesight, and therefore retired from the photography business and sold his studio to Casper Cosenza.

Last week I published a biography for Albert V. Porter. In writing the biography I had acquired 25 photographs taken by Albert V. Porter. The postcards depict some of the beautiful scenes in and around the village of Ellenville. Scenes include Sam’s Point, Hanging Rock Falls, Grahamsville, Big Indian Springs, the Mohonk House, Vernooy Kill Falls and many more.

All the photographs have been added to the Albert V. Porter gallery, which can be reached by navigating: Catskills Photograph Gallery >> Historic Catskills Photographers >> Albert V. Porter – Ellenville, NY Photographer.

Sam’s Point, 2340 Feet

Sam's Point, 2340 Feet

Hanging Rock Falls, Ellenville, N.Y.

Red Mill Dam, Ellenville, N.Y.

Red Mill Dam, Ellenville, N.Y.

Looking from Post Office, Grahamsville, N.Y.

Mohonk Lake and House

Mohonk Lake and House

Interior, Church of the Holy Name, Cragsmoor, N.Y.

Vernooy Kill Falls, Wawarsing, N.Y.

Vernooy Kill Falls, Wawarsing, N.Y.

Ice Cave, Ellenville, N.Y.

Ice Cave, Ellenville, N.Y.

Big Indian Spring, Ellenville, N.Y.

Big Indian Spring, Ellenville, N.Y.

Lover's Glen, Grahamsville, N.Y.

Lover's Glen, Grahamsville, N.Y.

Albert V. Porter – Ellenville, NY Photographer

Sat, 01 Jul 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Introduction

Red Mill, Ellenville, N.Y. Red Mill, Ellenville, N.Y. Author's collection.

Biography

Albert V. Porter was born at Ellenville, New York in October 1856. He was the son of Jonathan Porter and Sarah (Van Dover) Porter.

Jonathan Porter, Albert’s father, was born in March 1821 (or 1822, depending on the source) in New Bedford in the Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts. When he was eight years old his family moved to Lumberland, Pennsylvania, “where he grew to manhood, his ancestors owning at one time a large tract of land where the city of Kingston, PA now stands.” At the age of 18 Jonathan moved to the village of Ellenville, where he remained for the rest of his life. For several years he worked in the old lead mine, which at the time was one of the village’s most important industries. He also worked as a tanner, a teamster, a farm laborer and a day laborer.

Jonathan married Sarah Van Dover, daughter of Albert Van Dover and Eliza (Carpenter) Van Dover, on April 19, 1846 in a ceremony conducted by Reverend S. B. Ayres of the Reformed Church. Together Jonathan and Sarah had ten children. She had been a devoted member of the Methodist Church. Sarah passed away at 86 years old on April 29, 1914 at Albert’s home in Ellenville. Jonathan and Sarah were together for “a long and happy married life of 68 years.” They “had lived together in loving devotion for 68 years. They were doubtless the oldest married couple in Ulster County.”[1]

Upon Jonathan’s passing four years later on January 19, 1918 at the age of 95, he was described as “one of the aged and highly respected residents of this village” and as “the oldest member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and a man who always had a kind word for every one with whom he came in contact, making many friends during his long life.” His obituary demonstrated the great respect with which he was held in the Ellenville community.

“At the time of her [Sarah] death and since Mr. Porter has resided with his son and family, who have been devoted in the care of this venerable father – a long life ended. Up until a year or two deceased was able to go out upon the street and exchange friendly greetings with friends. He was active in the early history of the village and was a man of bright intellect, well read in history not confined alone to state but national affairs, a man devoted to home and family, a kind neighbor and a good friend, and has been kept in mind by many to whom he and his good wife were so kind in sickness and sorrow, cheering many aching hearts. He lived a good life and has gone to meet its reward.”

Jonathan’s funeral was held at Albert’s house in Ellenville in a service conducted by Reverend Joseph E. Appley, of the M. E. Church. Attending the funeral were his four surviving sons, including Albert, John and Richard of Ellenville, and Saul Porter, of Syracuse, and his “devoted granddaughter, Miss Sadie E. Porter, of Brooklyn.” He is buried in the family plot at the Old Ellenville Cemetery.

The 1860 United States census listed 4-year-old Albert residing in the household of his parents Jonathan and Sarah in the town of Wawarsing, Ulster County, New York. The household included Albert’s siblings, including 8-year-old Ida and 1-year-old John, as well as a farm laborer named John Vanduzen and a domestic servant named Mary Riley. Jonathan was listed with an occupation of farm laborer.

The 1870 United States census listed 17-year-old Albert as residing in the household of his father and mother in Wawarsing, Ulster County, New York. Also in the household were Albert’s siblings, including 19-year-old Ida, 11-year-old John, 9-year-old Sarah and 6-year-old Richard. Both Albert and his father were listed with an occupation of laborer.

The 1880 United States census listed 23-year-old Albert residing with his parents Jonathan and Sarah in the village of Ellenville in Ulster County, New York. Also in the household were Albert’s siblings Ida, John, Saul, and Richard. Jonathan was listed with an occupation of “laboring in mine” while Albert was listed with an occupation of “knife maker.” Albert was also listed as being unemployed for three months of the year, due to “steel in eye.”

On September 12, 1883 Albert married Jessie Moffat Hanmore, daughter of Charles Hanmore and Elsie (Decker) Hanmore of Newburgh, New York. She was the descendent of old Ulster County families, including Jacob J. Decker and Lucretia Pameron. Charles, Jessie’s father, worked as a captain of the ferry boat between Newburgh and Fishkill for many years. “Only a few years after his [Charles] marriage, while attempting to rescue his younger brother, Moses Hanmore, he was injured by smoke and fumes in the boiler room of the ferryboat and never regained his health. An accident to the machinery and boiler caused Moses Hanmore, the engineer, to lose his life by drawing the fire box as the boat was in mid-river, and many lives were in danger.”[2]

Albert and Jessie had four children, two of which reached adulthood, including Sadie (b. January, 1886) and Helen (b. March, 1896). Sadie for many years worked in the photography industry at Waterbury, Connecticut; Kingston, New York; and New York City. Helen married William C. Matthews, of Passaic New Jersey, who was for many years associated with the Automatic Fire Alarm Company of Brooklyn. Jessie was a devoted member of the Methodist Church. She passed away at her home in Passaic, New Jersey on October 5, 1926.

In 1895 Nellie D. Porter, the youngest daughter of Albert and Jessie Porter, died after a nine-day battle with diphtheria.

“Nellie, the youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. A. V. Porter, was taken sick the early part of last week, and on Tuesday Dr. Hanker, the attending physician, pronounced it a case of diphtheria, and on the following day, Dr. Eastgate, the health physician, quarantined the house. Mr. and Mrs. Porter were the only occupants except an aged lady who occupied the lower part of the house. After a week of anxious watching and attendance upon the little one, she passed away about 10 o’clock Tuesday morning.

About 8 o’clock in the evening of the same day a “carry-all,” with two seats, drove up to the door and the heart-broken father and mother, with the remains of their daughter were taken in, and conveyed to the cemetery for burial, the Rev. Mr. Jones accompanying them in a separate wagon. Neighbors and friends of the family showed their respect in the only way possible – by sending floral contributions – which they did in large numbers.

The deceased was a bright, intelligent child, and was a favorite with her playmates. During the afternoon, another daughter, Sadie May, aged about 9 years, in company with other near relatives, were permitted to stand in an adjoining yard and view the remains of her sister, while she was held by the window in the upper story of the house. It was sad indeed.”[3]

The 1900 United States census listed 43-year Albert living with his 39-year-old wife Jessie and their two children, 14-year-old Sadie and 4-year-old Helen. Albert and Jessie were listed as having had four children, of which two were alive. Albert was listed with an occupation of knife worker.

During the Ulster County Fair held in the year 1900 Porter was described by the local newspaper as a promising amateur photographer.

“In amateur photography the exhibit was small. Mr. Porter sent a collection which was greatly appreciated. His excellence in that branch of art is so well known it is not necessary for me to add my encomiums. By the way, why do not our two score or more amateur photographers band together for the purpose of higher attainment in their art, and give us a display of their talent next fall in the art department of the Fair? From personal observation covering many years I find the photo exhibit, whether large or small, one of the most attractive in our department; and while some like this and others that, all are pleased with photography. Why not give them variety of talent and a larger range of subjects.”[4]

In the early 1900s Albert began his career as a professional photographer, taking over ownership of the Davis Studio from well-known photographer Winfield S. Davis. While trying to sell his gallery, Davis described it in an advertisement published in early 1900.

“FOR SALE. – One of the best equipped galleries in New York State; only gallery; town 4,000; fully stocked; small branch gallery 16 miles distant; established 18 years; 15 years present owner. W. S. Davis, Ellenville, N.Y.”[5]

The following advertisement was published by Porter in the Ellenville Journal in December 1902.

“Photographs for Christmas. Leave your order early. Cabinets from $1 to $7.00. Fine Gems – 50c. per doz. Copying, Enlarging in Crayon, Oil, Pastel, Sepia and India Ink a specialty. Orders for Framing of all kinds promptly filled. VIEWS in great variety. Satisfaction guaranteed. Formerly Davis Studio. Albert V. Porter, Proprietor, 129 Canal St., Ellenville. A Fine Line of Calendars 1903.”

Porter quickly established a solid reputation as a photographer, winning an award at the 1903 Ellenville Fair for his photographic views. That same year he was advertising his studio as offering “the highest grade of work.”[6] For his landscape work Porter made views of the mountain resorts, illustrated for the Mohonk, Winnewaska Lakes and the boarding houses of the Shawangunk Mountains.

Stratton's Mill, Greenfield, N.Y. Stratton's Mill, Greenfield, N.Y. Author's collection.

Tannery Dam and Bridge, Grahamsville, N.Y. Author's collection.

In 1906 The Tri-States Union newspaper of Port Jervis, New York wrote about a unique photo taken by Porter.

“Picture of the Late Solar Halo. A. V. Porter, of Ellenville, succeeded in getting a fine photograph of the solar halo which occurred last week, and which excited so much comment. He was on the roof of a house and lay there nearly a half hour to get a proper focus. The pictures are probably the only ones of the kind in existence.”

The 1910 United States census listed 54-year-old Albert, his 50-year-old wife Jessie and their 14-year-old daughter Helen living in the 2nd Election District in the village of Ellenville, Wawarsing Township, Ulster County, New York. Albert was listed with an occupation of photographer.

On March 8, 1910 The Kingston Daily Freeman wrote that “Albert Porter has on display twenty-five pictures of different basketball teams that have visited Ellenville in the last three years.”

The Kingston Daily Freeman issue of January 26, 1912 wrote that “Albert V. Porter has presented two large pictures 18x22 of Ward Post members, also of the graduating class of 1911 to the post and high school. The pictures are from Mr. Porter’s studio and show the skill and fine work done there.”

Over the years Porter employed various photographic assistants at his gallery. In 1909 Harvey J. Osterhoudt, of Kingston, and John Joseph Young, of Leurenkill, worked at the gallery. Osterhoudt would leave the Porter gallery that same year for “an excellent position” with the Baumann studio at Westfield, New Jersey. In 1911 Waldmere L. Andre assisted at the Porter gallery, after which he returned to him in Denmark. In the summer of 1915 Porter employed operators Harry Parth, Charles M. DeBevoise and Casper S. Cosenza of New York.

For several years, during the 1900s, Porter employed Alfred Wurts Tice (1829-1909) as an assistant. Tice had been a longtime photographer at Ellenville in the 1860s to the early 1880s, but had moved to Corry, Pennsylvania where he had established a gallery. Tice moved back to Ellenville in the mid 1890s.

In 1915 Porter was hard at work photographing the local schools. “John M. Schoonmaker, school supervisor of Accord, and Albert V. Porter, the local photographer, are on a trip this week through the district to secure pictures of the school houses for a special work.”[7]

Hanging Rock Falls, Ellenville, N.Y. Author's collection.

Fantinekill Falls, Ellenville, N.Y. Fantinekill Falls, Ellenville, N.Y. Author's collection.

In 1917 “Albert V. Porter, local photographer, has received a large order of pictures taken by Casper Cosenza of the Porter Studio of the Tyler lawn at Lackawack. It is understood the pictures are to be used for a big publicity campaign throughout the country in connection with Mrs. G. Vere Tyler and the conspicuous names of the motion picture industry.”[8]

In September 1918 Porter was recognized in the local newspaper for one of his portrait photographs.

“A very fine portrait of the late John R. Hunt has just been finished and framed in a chestnut brown frame to correspond with the woodwork in the lobby of Hunt Memorial Hall, where it is to occupy a prominent place on the walls of this room. Mr. Hunt, the donor o the beautiful building, the gift to the local Woman’s Christian Temperance Union, the ladies of this union had the picture made through our local photographer, Albert V. Porter, and it has been on exhibition for a few days in the large window Ostrander’s furniture store and much admired.

In September 1918 Porter made “pictures of many of the boys from the town going int the U.S. service during the past year and many of the boys sending back to the home folks pictures taken in their uniforms, so Mr. Porter has completed a fine piece of work. It is a large picture which has for its center the picture of the Rev. Joseph E. Appley, who left a few weeks ago for work in France, and surrounding this picture many pictures of the boys, so as completed and framed is a fine piece of work and will be greatly appreciated for all to go and look upon the faces of loved ones who have entered the U. S. service and look upon the face of George D. Cook, who gave his life for his country, and look upon the face of Melvin Schoonmaker of Wawarsing, who is reported missing in action in the service in France.”[9]

By late 1918 Porter had to close his studio at Ellenville due to the loss his eyesight from chemical poisoning. In 1919 Albert and Jessie Porter moved from Ellenville to Passaic, New Jersey.

The Porter Studio was sold in March 1920 to Casper Cosenza, who had previously worked there as an assistant during the summer months. Cosenza changed the name of the business to the Shadowland Studio, and reopened on May 1, 1920.

Porter was very active in the Ellenville community throughout his life. He was a longtime member of the M. E. Church and was always active in the church’s work. He taught the church Sunday School for 41 years. It was noted in the local newspaper that five members of just one Sunday School class had entered the ministry, a testament to Porter’s teaching. During World War I, 12 former members of his classes were serving their country, two of whom “paid the supreme sacrifice.”

Porter was the local acting secretary of the Y. M. C. A. and “always found time when young men were leaving the home town to interest himself in their welfare, and a letter would go to the Y. M. C. A. secretary introducing them to the association.”[10] He was also, for several years, the superintendent of the floral department of the Ulster County Agricultural Society.

The 1920 United States census listed Albert and his wife Jessie residing in Passaic County, New Jersey in the household of their daughter Helen and son-in-law William Matthews. Albert was not listed with a profession.

After moving to Passaic, Porter apparently regained his eyesight as he worked at several local florist companies. He was employed as manager at the retail department of Moles and Gillen at 184 Main Avenue, and also worked for Gruber Florists and the Variety Florist. Albert was active in the church, and was a member of the Men’s Bible Class at the Passaic Methodist Church. He was a member of the Y. M. C. A. and president of the Floral Society.

The 1930 United States census listed the now widowed Albert living in Passaic County, New Jersey with his daughter Sadie, his daughter Helen and his son-in-law William. Albert was listed with an occupation of “retired” while Sadie was working as a retoucher in a photographic studio. William was working as a clerk in the fire equipment industry.

Legacy

Albert V. Porter published a large number of portrait photographs of the residents of the Ellenville community throughout his approximately 20 years in business. In addition, he photographed and published a wide range of scenic postcards from Ellenville and much of the surrounding countryside. Both his portrait and landscape photographs provide a nostalgic look back at the Ellenville region during the first two decades of the 20th century.

Albert V. Porter passed away at his home in Passaic Park, New Jersey at the age of 80 on January 10, 1937. Albert had suffered a stroke the week before his death. Funeral services were held at his home, with the Reverend A. L. Fretz officiating. Porter was buried at Ridgelawn Cemetery. He was survived by his two daughters, Sadie Mae Porter and Mrs. William C. Matthews, both of 16 Rutgers Place, Passaic; and three brothers, Saul T. Porter, of Syracuse, New York; and John M. Porter and Richard F. Porter, both of Ellenville.

[1] The Independent Republican. May 8, 1914.

[2] The Goshen Democrat. October 15, 1926.

[3] Middletown Daily Press. October 9, 1895.

[4] Ellenville Journal. September 14, 1900.

[5] The St. Lous and Canadian Photographer. Vol. 24, No. 1. January, 1900.

[6] Ellenville Journal. February 13, 1903.

[7] The Kingston Daily Freeman (Kingston, New York). May 8, 1915.

[8] The Kingston Daily Freeman (Kingston, New York). August 15, 1917.

[9] The Kingston Daily Freeman (Kingston, New York). October 1, 1918.

[10] The Kingston Daily Freeman (Kingston, New York). November 8, 1919.

James V. Brandow – Windham, New York Photographer

Sat, 24 Jun 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Introduction

James V. Brandow was a prominent photographer in the northern Catskills from the late 1800s to the 1930s. He was perhaps most associated with his work at the village of Windham, but at various times he also had galleries at Catskill, Prattsville, Stamford, Gilboa and Ellenville. He also operated a winter-time gallery in the city of Miami, Florida for many years.

Country House. Author's collection.

Biography

James Vernon Brandow was born on February 16, 1861 at the hamlet of Hensonville, Greene County in the northern Catskills. He was the son of Henry Brandow (1824-1887) and Julia (Stone) Brandow (1863-1905). Henry and Julia had eight children including seven sons (Charles, George H., Frank, I. Wheeler, Julian J., James and William) and one daughter (Hattie).

Henry, the father, most often worked as a painter or carriage painter, but was listed in the 1855 New York State census with an occupation of tailor. The Windham Journal carried an advertisement for Henry Brandow’s tailoring business in 1857.

“New Tailoring Establishment. The subscriber would respectfully inform his friends and citizens of Windham that he has removed from the shop adjoining R. P. Gorshine’s Store, to the rooms over W. F. Spencer’s Jewelry Store, where he will be pleased to see all who will favor him with a call. He will warrant garments made by him to a perfect fit. Cutting done at short notice. HENRY BRANDOW. Windham, April 1st, 1857.”

Henry passed away on August 6, 1887 in the village of Catskill. Both Henry and Julia are buried at Catskill Village Cemetery in Catskill, New York.

The 1865 New York State census listed 4-year-old James residing in the town of Windham in the household of his parents. His father Henry was listed with an occupation of painter. In 1865, likely sometime after the census, Henry, “one of the old residents of Hensonville,” moved to the village of Catskill to work for Mr. Dunham in the painting business.

The 1870 United States census listed 9-year-old James residing in the town of Catskill in the household of his parents. His father Henry was listed with an occupation of carriage painter. Two brothers, 19-year-old Charles and 18-year-old George, were listed with an occupation of painter. His 15-year-old brother I. Wheeler was listed with an occupation of clerk in a meat market. Also in the household were his sister Hattie and his brother William.

The 1875 United States census listed 14-year-old James living in the town of Catskill in the household of Henry Brandow, his father. Henry was listed with an occupation of painter. Julia Brandow, James’ mother, had passed away in 1871. Also in the household were James’ siblings Harriet and William, and a housekeeper by the name of Elizabeth Chichester.

Before beginning his photography career, Brandow operated a store selling sewing machines at the village of Windham. The store was located at O. R. Coe’s Hotel, and could later be found at the Journal Building in Windham.

“BUY YOUR SEWING MACHINES OF J. V. BRANDOW, Windham, N.Y., who keeps always on hand a large stock and can furnish any machine in the market. Sewing Machines sold on monthly payments to parties who are not able to pay cash. OLD MACHINES taken in exchange. Attachments, needles, and all parts supplied. All Kinds of Machines Repaired. Office at O. R. Coe’s Hotel.”[1]

In 1885, The Windham Journal published another advertisement for Brandow’s sewing machine business at Windham.

“Only $20. This Style SINGER, with full Set of Attachments, on two weeks trial. We do not ask you to pay one cent until you use the machine in your own home for two weeks. Warranted for 3 years. Circulars and testimonials free. J. V. Brandow, Windham, N.Y.”

Brandow, in partnership with W. A. Jenne, in 1885 opened a skating rink on Mill Street, in Osborn’s “new building.” The rink was 24 x 40, and “was big enough for a town of Windham’s size. About all the young folks in town are learning the art.” By September the rink was “well patronized” and “having a success.”

In 1890 there was some controversy around the use of tariffs in the United States, particularly since the Tariff Act of 1890 was signed into law that year. The Catskill Recorder wrote in October of 1890 about the direct impact of the tariffs on Brandow’s photography business through higher supply costs.

“A tariff object lesson: The Windham Journal says that “the new tariff hit James Brandow of this village. He wanted some usual supplies in his photograph business; sent for them, when, lo! the new tariff had increased the cost 15 per cent. Did ‘the foreigner’ pay it? Oh, no! Mr. Brandow paid it, and will have to get it out of the consumer, or lose so much of his already small profits.” The tariff is a tax, gentlemen; you can’t wriggle around the fact. And “foreigners” are not paying our taxes.”

At some point in the early 1890s Brandow established a partnership with W. A. Jenne. The partnership operated with the names The Photo Company or Jenne & Brandow. This partnership did not last long, as a notice of dissolution was published in The Windham Journal in October 1891.

“NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION. Notice is hereby given that the co-partnership heretofore existing between the undersigned, under the names of The Photo Company, and Jenne & Brandow, is hereby dissolved by mutual consent. All the liabilities of said firms are assumed by, and all accounts due said firms are payable to W. A. Jenne. W. A. JENNE, J. V. BRANDOW.”

In July 1892, The Catskill Recorder reported that Brandow was opening a photograph gallery at the village of Stamford, New York.

In 1892, Brandow also began serving as an agent for the Ocean Steamship Company operating between New York and the southern states. The following advertisement for the service was carried in The Windham Journal.

“Where the balmy breezes blow, where there’s neither ice nor snow, where the orange blossoms bloom, where old “Sol” is always shining at noon, is reached by the Ocean Steamship Co. J. V. Brandow, Agt. See W. A. Jenne for days of sailing, etc.”

In July 1893, The Windham Journal reported that Brandow was operating a photography business at East Windham.

In October 1893, The Windham Journal reported that photographers Brandow and W. A. Jenne were at the village of Saugerties taking views of the Fireman’s parade. That same month The Catskill Recorder reported that the partnership of Jenne & Brandow had rented from C. L. Van Valkenburgh the entire second floor of his building on Bridge Street in the village of Catskill. The lease was to begin December 1, and was for a term of five years.

Brandow & Jenne advertised their new partnership in the local newspapers.

“New studio, new furniture, new accessories, new backgrounds; everything the latest; only one short flight of stairs; extra large skylight; can photograph a group of fifty. BRANDOW & JENNE, Bridge Street, Catskill.” – The Catskill Recorder, December 15, 1893.

“Babies’ photos, quicker than a wink, at Brandow & Jenne’s, Bridge st.” – The Catskill Recorder, December 15, 1893.

“Brandow & Jenne have opened their new studio on Bridge st. and are prepared to do all kinds of photographic work. Photographing children a specialty.” – The Catskill Recorder, December 22, 1893.

“Four new styles in portraits, the latest and cutest, at Brandow & Jenne’s, Bridge st.” – The Catskill Recorder, December 22, 1893.

“Crayons, pastels and photo enlargements; the best grades only; prices the lowest for good work; satisfaction guaranteed, at Brandow & Jenne’s, Bridge st., Catskill.” – The Catskill Recorder, December 29, 1893.

“Everything pertaining to photography; a special department for landscapes and views, at Brandow & Jenne’s, Bridge st., Catskill.” – The Catskill Recorder, January 5, 1894.

The partnership of Brandow & Jenne lasted only a few months, with The Catskill Recorder reporting in January 1894 that the partnership had been dissolved. W. A. Jenne was going to continue with the business. By October 1895 Jenne had disposed of his business at Catskill and was reportedly moving to Thomasville, Georgia.

James married Cora Woodvine at Troy, New York on May 22, 1894. The ceremony was officiated by Reverend Hines. She was the daughter of William and Sarah Woodvine. Cora passed away in 1905 in Miami, Florida. She had suffered for several years with pulmonary afflictions, which in part had prompted her and James to spend the winters at Miami. Her body was taken to Windham and buried at Windham Cemetery. Upon her passing it was written that “she was a devout Christian, a patient and loving wife and was generally admired and reverenced by those of her acquaintances.”[2]

In July 1894, Brandow was at the town of Windham taking pictures of popular views and private residences in the region. He took photos of T. W. Jernalds’ residence at the hamlet of Ashland. In September 1894 Brandow erected a portable studio at Windham. The scheduled opening was about September 20th.

In October 1894 Brandow visited the village of Hudson where he photographed the Tri-County Fireman’s Parade. He also photographed the fire companies of Hudson. Later in October Brandow visited Coxsackie to photograph the teachers taking part in the Teachers’ Institute.

In November 1894, Brandow temporarily operated his portable photographic studio at the hamlet of Prattsville. The studio was located near the Fowler House.

By December 1894, Brandow had returned to the village of Windham “with his new portable studio, prepared to make the best photo ever made in this section. One dozen finest finish, aristo cabinet photographs, a life size crayon portrait, and an elegant frame, for $4. Call and see samples.” He operated this Windham studio until January 10th of 1895, after which, he and his wife traveled to Florida for the remainder of the winter. They returned to Windham in late May 1895, and Brandow reopened his studio on June 10th, occupying the rooms formerly occupied by W. A. Jenne.

In October 1895, The Windham Journal reported that Brandow had again temporarily located at the hamlet of Prattsville.

In June 1897, Brandow opened a picture gallery at the village of Stamford. M. H. West was doing much of the carpentry work for Brandow in order to prepare the gallery. The following advertisement for Brandow was published in the Stamford Recorder.

“Coupon. J. V. Brandow, Photo Artist, Stamford. The holder of this Coupon is entitled to ONE DOZEN of my best IVORYETTE FINISH CABINET PHOTOS FOR $2.00. Good until August 30, 1897. Regular Price of Photo, $3.00.”

In October 1897, The Windham Journal reported that Brandow had purchased the Behm photograph gallery on Bridge Street in the village of Catskill, and would move from Stamford to that location.

The Windham Journal reported in September 1898 that Brandow had sold his photograph gallery at the village of Catskill to J. B. O’Henans.

The 1900 United States census listed 39-year-old Brandow as residing with his wife in Windham Township in the household of William and Sarah Woodvine, his parents-in-law. He was listed with the occupation of photographer.

In March 1900, The Windham Journal noted “a fine picture” taken by Brandow that included 78 people, representing four generations of the Osborn-Bump family. The photo was taken at the home of Alice R. Cole & Son during a family reunion.

“It was a wonderful gathering, nearly all of whom are residents of this vicinity. The faces are all clearly distinct, and the picture will prove a valuable keep-sake of those present, never to be obtained again elsewhere. How many families can number so large a company? Aunt Huldah Osborn, over 82 years old; Elbert Osborn, son; Geo. W. Osborn, grandson; Hilda Osborn, great-granddaughter. So, too, was it with Aunt Huldah Osborn, Alice R. Cole, Osborn A. Cole and little Estelle Cole. Then there was the family of Oscar Bronson; also, the late Barney Fuller descendants; those of Nelson Bump, Ephriam Bump; also L. S. Graham, S. L. Munson and A. H. Chittenden. This vicinity is indebted much to those people for what Windham has been and now is, in every sense going to promote morals and prosperity. The picture is a big one, and only 50 cents gets one of Brandow.”[3]

The Windham Journal reported in September 1903 that Brandow “had his tin-type tent at the Cooksburg Farmers’ Picnic last week. He will also be at the Prattsville Fair next week.”

In September 1904, The Gilboa Monitor reported that Brandow had opened a branch studio at the village of Gilboa, opposite the O’Brien House. Brandow had employed E. Van Dyke, of Catskill, to work as operator and manager of the location.

In July 1905, as reported by The Windham Journal, Brandow “did a rushing business at Griffin Corners July 4th, with his tin-type gallery.”

In November 1905, the same year that he lost his wife Julia, The Windham Journal wrote that “J. V. Brandow had taken down his photograph building which for the past dozen years has been erected across the stream from Mott’s drug store. Mr. Brandow will again return to Miami, Fla., where he has wintered for several years. We regret to lose Mr. Brandow, because he has been a useful, helpful citizen, and one who made a success of his profession. He is a good artist, and Windham will miss him, but the death of Mrs. Brando last year severed many ties here, and better business opportunities call him South. We wish him full success in his southern home.”

Brandow, in July 1906, erected his photographic studio at the village of Windham on the premises of Charles Jennings, on the creek side of the blacksmith shop.

In October 1908 Brandow advertised that “Now is the time to have your PHOTOS TAKEN BY BRANDOW, The Leading Photographer of Greene County. First-class photos from $1 per dozen up. A Life Size Crayon Portrait or a Beautiful Gold-Plated Brooch Given Free With Every Dozen. Open Every Week Day Till Nov. 7th. Brandow’s Studio, Windham, N.Y.”[4]

Brandow, in May 1909, was “quite busy these days getting ready for his summer trade. However, he is not too busy to take your picture just now if you want it. If you want a picture of your premises or a landscape view taken, call on him. He will do you an O.K. job.”[5]

In July 1909, The Windham Journal wrote of an interesting photograph taken by Brandow at the village of Hensonville.

“Did You See the Ark? – It took three big truck horses and the largest truck of the company to convey over the mountain from Cairo the big order for “Jacobs’ Sparkling Soda Water” to local dealers in Hensonville and Windham, on Saturday. The approach of the big “ark” attracted much attention as it entered the village of Hensonville with its enormous cargo of cases of “the sparkling” piled high above the racks. There were 150 cases aboard. Before unloading, Photographer J. V. Brandow of this village, was called and took a picture of the turnout, including the driver, Manly Brainerd, with reins in hand. This picture is 8x10 inches, and is an artistic piece of work, which may be seen by calling at Mr. Brandow’s Studio. The Jacobs concern has a large patronage here, and the scene of last Saturday, is the introductory load for the summer trade, about equally divided between the eastern and western villages of our town. Mr. Jacobs is making a special drive on his mineral waters this season.”

Business must have been good for Brandow in the summer of 1909, as seen in his setup for his photography business.

“EQUAL TO THE EMERGENCY. – J. V. Brandow, ever alert to the growing demands of his business (photography), now has an up to date photograph wagon, equipped with everything necessary to do business with, including a dark room, where he can develop the old-time tin-type or the modern photograph. The wagon was designed by Mr. Brandow, is easily drawn by one horse, and is O.K. in every particular. Its extreme length is nine feet and has proportionate width and height. Mr. Brando has neatly applied the brush, and it shows up nicely in its finish of red and lemon, with trimmings of black. Other ornamentation and lettering will be added as time permits. The initial trip with the wagon was at the Cooksburg picnic, and “Jim” says it is the right thing in the right place. He is at Prattsville Fair with it this week, and is ready for picnics and the like at short notice.”[6]

Miller Brothers Clothiers. Author's collection.

Even as late as around 1910, Brandow was still taking old-fashioned tin-type pictures. In September of that year, he was at the Firemen’s Convention at Tannersville taking the tin-type photographs. Later in September Brandow had his tin-type tent at the Farmers’ Picnic at Union Society, a popular event that attracted at least 2,000 people.

In the 1910s Brandow operated a souvenir store and ice cream parlor at the village of Windham. In 1914, The Windham Journal reported that “J. V. Brandow, bound to be up to date at his studio and ice cream parlor, has installed an acetylene gas lighting plant in the building. A new awning has also been placed in front of the porch.” In May 1918, The Windham Journal wrote that “J. V. Brandow has purchased the goods in Mrs. J. H. Wood’s Bazaar and rented the premises. He will continue the business, confining his former business place to the sale of ice cream and confectionary.” In 1924 Brandow likely sold the store to his former worker Frances M. Post and her soon-to-be husband Clyde R. Adams. After their wedding, Post and Adams were to take possession of the business at the J. V. and H. A. Brandow store on November 1, 1924.

In June 1922 Brandow suffered a significant blow to his health when he was struck with apoplectic shock. He had been at Hough’s Garage in Hensonville, New York looking after his branch operations, when the partial paralysis struck. The stroke caused his whole right side to be helpless. He was quickly taken to his home at Windham, where he was attended to by Dr. Mulbury. At the time, the “latest reports in his case are not altogether assuring.”[7] He would live another 16 years.

In 1923 Brandow’s film developing business was thriving at the village of Windham. It was reported that he had developed approximately 25,000 kodak pictures during the summer months that year.

In 1925, The Windham Journal published a small advertisement stating that “J. V. Brandow will take your picture any time, day or night, at his Home Studio, Windham.” Raymond Moseman began to work for Brandow in 1927.

Even as the Black Monday stock market crash neared that fall, and the Great Depression loomed, business at the Brandow gallery was going strong in the summer of 1929. Brandow reported that he was employing five men at his studio, and was hoping to add a sixth.

The 1930 United States census listed Brandow as residing in Windham Township. He was listed with an occupation of photographer, with his own studio.

In September 1932, The Windham Journal wrote that “Ransom McConnell has recently leased the J. V. Brandow studio, upper Main Street, where he is ready for business at any time in his line – photography. He and Mrs. McConnell are housekeeping in rooms in Mr. Brandow’s residence.”

In July 1933, The Windham Journal reported that Brandow, in addition to his business at Windham, had taken over an established business at the village of Ellenville. Work commenced around July 13, 1933.

By 1936, in the depths of the Great Depression, Brandow had seemingly fallen on hard financial times. On August 7, 1936 a foreclosure sale was held at the Court House in Catskill, New York for Brandow’s property at Windham.

Florida

For many years Brandow would travel from his home in Windham to Miami, Florida for the winter, where he would operate a photograph gallery aimed at the tourist industry. The early Brandow operation at Miami was typically located at the corner of Avenue D and Fourteenth Street. In 1905 Brandow was unable to secure his usual studio location, and therefore decided to operate in tents located across the street from his previous location.

Brandow would later operate a popular gallery at Miami known as the Royal Palm Studio at the Hotel Royal Palm and casino. He took the operation over from J. N. Chamberlain, who had run the studio for many years. Brandow also established a branch studio at Elser Pier, located at 12th Street and boulevard. George H. Brandow, James’ brother, was a partner in the Miami operation for many years. George, like James, would return to the Catskills each summer, with his residence at the hamlet of Purling, New York. Hattie Brandow, James’ sister, would also accompany him from Windham to Miami for the winter and would work at the gallery.

In 1908 Brandow advertised his Miami studio in the local newspaper. “24 Ping-Pong Photos for 25c in Six Different Positions. Have your Post Cards taken with our Big Alligator, or in the Automobile. Kodak developing and printing. At Brandow Studio Tent. Cor. 14th Street and Ave. D.”[8] In 1917 Brandow took “several panoramic views of the bay and the race course for publicity purposes.” In 1918 Brandow took photographs at the Miami Beach casino for the Miami Chamber of Commerce to use in their annual 1918-1919 booklets.

Brandow would sometimes travel to other locations in the Miami region. In April 1906 he visited the town of Dania, Florida “to take some pictures of that live little town.” In May 1906 Brandow went to Fort Lauderdale “to take some pictures of the dredge ‘Everglades.’”

Painting

In addition to his photography business, Brandow also followed in the footsteps of his father in the painting industry. In addition, James’ brothers George and Charles were also house, sign and carriage painters. Through the years the local newspapers noted the various painting work completed by James Brandow. In one interesting story, in 1915 Brandow repainted the office sign at The Windham Journal, the local newspaper, with the sign having been originally painted by his father Henry 30 years prior. The Windham Journal wrote on November 18, 1915 that “The lettering was in gold leaf, of old English design, and was then considered one of the most artistic signs in Greene County. As was his father, so is James V., an artist with the brush.”

As just a few examples of his work, Brandow painted the 24-foot Miller Bros. sign at Roxbury in 1897, the G. W. Potter Company sign in 1900 and the Newell & Brockett “Furniture” and “Undertaking” signs in 1900. Brandow painted the Elgin Creamery sign in 1905, the Davis bowling alley in 1906 and the steel ceiling and woodwork of the M. E. Church in 1906. He painted the wagons in Cole’s livery in 1907, the auto trucks of Barker & Woodworth in 1914 and finished the steel ceiling at the new Masonic Hall building in 1915.

Legacy

James V. Brandow was a well-respected citizen of Greene County, New York for his entire life. He passed away at 77 years of age on June 29, 1938. His death was attributed to the effects of a fall, after which he was immediately taken to Memorial Hospital. He died without regaining consciousness. He had also been in a weakened physical condition for several years due to paralytic strokes.

Upon his passing it was written that “before illness incapacitated him [Brandow] anyone would have to be more than a genius in that art [photography] to outdo him either in knowledge, speed, or ability.” He is buried next to his wife Cora at Windham Cemetery in Windham, New York.

[1] The Windham Journal. April 19, 1883.

[2] “Death of Mrs. Cora Brandow.” The Miami News (Miami, Florida). January 6, 1905.

[3] The Windham Journal. March 15, 1900.

[4] The Windham Journal. October 8, 1908.

[5] The Windham Journal. May 27, 1909.

[6] The Windham Journal. August 26, 1909.

[7] “Hensonville.” Catskill Recorder. June 30, 1922.

[8] Miami Morning News-Record (Miami, Florida). January 19, 1908.

Louis E. Jones, Woodstock, NY Photographer – New Photographs

Sat, 17 Jun 2023 12:00:00 GMT

In April of this year, I was able to attend the spring post card show hosted by the Kaaterskill Postcard Club at the village of Saugerties, New York. There was a good number of postcard dealers, and the attendance looked pretty good as well. When I arrived, to my surprise, the parking lot was full, and I was forced to park on the grass along the side of the lot. This was the first show held by the club in three years, and it was the first one in Saugerties, as the show had previously been held in Kingston.

While browsing the impressive collections of the various dealers I was able to pick up some new postcards for the website, including some by photographers John W. Rusk, Samuel E. Rusk, Conrad O. Bickelmann, Charles H. Phelps and B. E. Pudney.

I was also able to pick up 14 new postcards by Louis E. Jones, the well-regarded photographer and painter closely associated with the village of Woodstock in the Catskill Mountains and, later in his career, with the Great Smoky Mountains near Gatlinburg, Tennessee. All the new images have been added to the Jones gallery, which now contains 41 of his original postcard photographs. To view all the postcards, navigate to Gallery >> Historic Catskills Photographers >> Louis E. Jones.

In the Catskills. No. 3, Beautiful Catskill Mountain Series.

In Open Country. No. 4, Beautiful Catskill Mountain Series.

Lovely Falls in the Catskills. No. 11, Beautiful Catskill Mountain Series.

Winter in the Catskills. No. 14, Beautiful Catskill Mountain Series.

A Frozen Stream. No. 18, Beautiful Woodstock Series.

A View in the Catskills. No. 23, Beautiful Woodstock Series.

Gathering Maple Sap near Woodstock. No. 37, Beautiful Woodstock Series.

Charm of the Catskills. No. 39, Beautiful Woodstock Series.

January in the Catskills. No. 40, Beautiful Woodstock Series.

South View, Meads Mountain House. No number, Beautiful Woodstock Series.

A Winter Morning in the Harbor. No. 14, Beautiful Kingston Series.

On an Old Fashioned Street. No. 17, Beautiful Kingston Series.

Interior of the Jones Shop. Woodstock, N.Y.

John N. Brengel – Kingston, New York Photographer

Sat, 10 Jun 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Introduction

John N. Brengel was a popular photographer for over 20 years in the city of Kingston, New York. Prior to his arrival at Kingston Brengel operated a photographic gallery in New York City from the late-1860s through the mid-1880s.

Family portrait, by J. N. Brengel. Author's collection.

Biography

John N. Brengel was born in February 1833 in Manhattan, New York. He was married to Mary J. (Brown) Brengel. There is a conflict as to Mary’s correct year of birth, as the 1900 United States census shows her birthdate as July 1854 whereas her gravestone shows her birth year as 1855. John and Mary were married around the year 1875.

Brengel honorably served during the Civil War. At the age of 29, he enlisted for three years on August 12, 1862 at New York. He mustered in as a private in Company I, 6th New York Cavalry on August 13, 1862. Records show, somewhat amusingly, that he was “wounded in the canteen, October 11, 1863, at Brandy Station. Not disabled, but had to go thirsty until he procured another canteen.” He was promoted to sergeant on December 1, 1864. He was discharged on June 5, 1865 at Cloud’s Mills, Virginia.

The 6th New York Cavalry was involved in intense fighting for much of the Civil War. Notable battles and campaigns include the Battle of Chancellorsville (April 30 – May 6, 1863), Battle of Gettysburg (July 1-3, 1863), Sheridan’s Shenandoah Valley Campaign (August-November 1864) and the Appomattox Campaign (March 29-April 9, 1865).

By the late 1860s Brengel was listed with the occupation of photographer in the business directories for New York City. His studio was listed as 391 Canal Street. In the mid-1870s his business was located at 291 6th Avenue. Advertisements later place his business at 55 East 13th Street. The year 1885 was the last one in which Brengel was listed as a photographer in New York City.

The logo imprint on the reverse side of a portrait taken by Brengel reads “J. N. Brengel, Ferrotype Gallery, New York. 4 for 25 cents.” The ferrotype, also known more popularly as tintype, was patented by Hamilton Smith in 1856 in the United States. The ferrotype process was used widely used in the 1860s and 1870s.

An 1884 advertisement in The Photographic Times stated: “J. N. Brengel, Solar Printer, Photo, Enlargements by Electric Light. Prints made, Rain or Shine. Address for Price List, 55 East Thirteenth Street, New York.”

In August 1884 tragedy struck when Brengel’s New York City gallery was destroyed by fire. The New York Times provided a summary of the incident.

“J. N. Brengel, a photographer, whose specialty is the enlargement of pictures for artists by electric light, had a gallery on the third floor of No. 55 East Thirteenth Street. Last evening he was developing some negatives in the dark room, and his boy, Albert Whitemore, was in the gallery, when there was a whizzing noise, followed by an outburst of flame. Mr. Brengel found the woodwork of his operating room on fire, and the heat caused bottles of ether and alcohol to burst and add fuel to the flames. The fire was fierce when the engines arrived, but it was subdued in half an hour, when the gallery was a complete wreck. Mr. Brengel used the Brush wires for the light he needed, and he says the fire was due to insulating material being stripped in some manner from the wires so that they set fire to the woodwork through which they passed. Mr. Brengel was insured for $1,300 in the Phenix Company, of Brooklyn, and his loss is more than $2,500. C. Z. Bates, locksmith and bellhanger, on the second floor, loses about $700 by water damage. John Church & Co., of Cincinnati, publishers of music, on the first floor, lose by water damage from $1,200 to $1,500. About $800 damage was done to the building, which is owned by the Roosevelt estate.”[1]

Perhaps due to the tragedy that destroyed his gallery, that same year, 1884, Brengel advertised that he was in the market to purchase a Photographic Gallery, giving his address as Rondout, New York.

The city of Kingston business directories first listed Brengel as operating at 9 Wall Street by around 1884. By 1894 he had moved locations and was then operating at 29 Strand. Following business directories listed Brengel at 31 East Strand, 27-29 East Strand and 29 East Strand.

Portrait, Old Woman, by J. N. Brengel. Author's collection.

An 1888 newspaper advertisement had Brengel operating his business at 9 Wall Street in Kingston. He advertised cabinet photographs for sale at a cost of $1.50 per dozen. The advertisement also interestingly stated that “15,000 Negatives by Edward Lewis are in my possession.” Lewis had been a long-time photographer at Kingston through the early 1880s.

The Kingston Daily Freeman. October 13, 1888.

In October 1890 a fire broke out in the rear of the E. T. Dodge candy store on Wall Street, and quickly spread. As the fire engulfed the building, it did much damage to the rear of the Brengel’s photographic establishment. Damage was estimated at $500, and Brengel was not insured for the loss.

The 1892 book Kingston and Rondout: Their Representative Business Men and Points of Interest featured a profile of Brengel.

“J. N. Brengel, Photographer, No. 9 Wall Street, Kingston, N.Y. – If improved apparatus and reliable chemicals and unbounded self-confidence were all that is necessary to make a first-class photographer, the country would be full of such, for about every tenth man you see nowadays practices photography for fun or for money, and can talk to you by the hour about “negatives,” and “exposures” and developing, and many other things of which you know little or nothing; but when it comes to putting theories into practice the average photographer, amateur or professional, cannot seem to make a very excellent showing. The fact is long experience and considerable natural ability are absolutely essential to the attainment of thoroughly satisfactory results in photography, and an illustration of this may be had by comparing the work turned out by Mr. J. N. Brengel with that produced by other photographers who might be mentioned, for Mr. Brengel has been in the business for many years and is thoroughly familiar with it in every detail. He is a native of New York, and succeeded to the business founded by Mr. Edward Lewis in 1865. His rooms are located at No. 9 Wall Street, on the third and fourth floors, being very thoroughly fitted up in every way. Photography in all its branches is carried on, orders being filled at short notice and at uniformly moderate rates, while the results attained are such that it is perfectly safe to fully guarantee satisfaction to all who may place orders at this popular studio. This gentleman commanded Company I, 6th New York Cavalry, during the war, and for a time served on the staff of General Sheridan.”[2]

In 1896 Brengel achieved a certain amount of fame with the announcement that he, along with Chester B. Melott, had developed a process to produce static x-rays. News of this discovery was featured in newspapers in Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Kansas, Nebraska and other states.

“Static X-rays. A process differing from that of Roentgen. Everything goes now. These people made a wide departure. No vacuum was used. A series of experiments at Kingston which appear to be more startling than any yet performed with the Crookes tubes.

Kingston, N.Y., Feb. 18. – Chester B. Melott, manager of the Rondout Western Telegraph office, and J. N. Brengel, a local photographer, have made several successful experiments with X-rays, the manner of obtaining the pictures being altogether different from ordinary methods.

Not an inch of conducting wire, no battery, Crookes tubes, condensers, coils, or Leyden jars were used. The electric current used was transmitted through the body of the operators, and was conducted by them to the objects that were photographed and transmitted through the sensitized plate to the body of another person place on the opposite side of the sensitized plate, which was enclosed in a dark slide.

The current used was static, of high potential and high frequency, and the time of exposure required was about half a minute for each object. The experiment was conducted upon the principle and the theory that a lightning bolt will photograph objects on any sensitized bodies, when coming between them, as numerous accounts prove.

The pictures were taken through the cardboard cover of the slide, and through one thickness of a pane of glass, making about one-fourth of an inch. The whole operation is simple, and can be performed by anyone. The electricity for this experiment was obtained by holding an ordinary tin dusting pan under the rapidly moving leather driving belt of an engine in the power house of the Kingston City Electric line, with one hand, while the other hand touched the objects lying on top of the case containing the sensitized plate, another person holding the plate through the body of which the electricity passed off.

By other experiments tried with exhausted tubes and incandescent bulbs, lights of all the shades of the rainbow were secured, the light changing according to the condition of the atmosphere. In damp weather a very reddish light is produced, while in dry, clear atmosphere, the light assumes a bluish ting; also phantom rays of great brilliancy were obtained, but owing to the arrangement of the bulb and machinery, when sensitized plates were brought close to the bulbs, it destroyed their electrical effect, and in some cases extinguished the light altogether, the operation taking the current away by induction.

Mr. Melott contemplates making further experiments with the rays, and also with a very penetrating electric light, which consists of passing a current of dynamo electricity through a tube filled with a peculiar metallic gas. The current freely passes and produces and produces a very penetrating light.”[3]

The 1900 United States census listed Brengel as residing in district 107 of the city of Kingston. Also residing in the household was Mary J., his wife, born July 1854; Carrie A., born January 1880; Anna L., born February 1882; Frederick D., born January 1884; George A., born March 1886; and Mable V., born July 1888. The census reported that John and Mary Brengel had seven children, six of which were currently living. The census showed that Brengel’s parents had both been born in Germany. He was listed with an occupation of Photographer. Frederick, even at the young age of 16, was listed with an occupation of Assistant Photographer.

In 1903 Brengel began planning for retirement, putting his gallery up for sale. An industry publication carried the following advertisement. “FOR SALE – Having decided to retire from active business, will sell my studio at a bargain; fitted for 11 by 14; fine Dallmeyer lens; best light; price, $450, cash. J. N. BRENGEL, 27 Strand, Kingston, N.Y.”[4]

Brengel’s actual retirement from the photography business took place two years later in 1905 at 72 years of age. He sold his business in August of that year to Robert G. Sibley, of Port Ewen. After the sale Brengel moved back to New York City.

The address directories for Manhattan and the Bronx begin to list Brengel in 1902 with a home address at 204 West 114th Street. In some years he was listed with an occupation of photographer, however, there was no business address listed.

John N. Brengel passed away at 76 years of age at his home in New York City on September 26, 1909. He was survived by two sons, George and Fred, and four daughters, Mrs. Joseph Stillwell, Carrie, Mabel and Lulu. Mary J. Brengel passed away at her home on January 26, 1927 at her home on Glenwood Road, Brooklyn. John, along with his wife Mary, is buried at Montrepose Cemetery in Kingston, New York.

[1] “Fired By Electric Light.” New York Times (New York, New York). August 26, 1884.

[2] Bacon, George F. Kingston and Rondout: Their Representative Business Men and Points of Interest. Newark, N.J.: Mercantile Publishing Company, 1892. p. 33.

[3] “Static X-rays.” Democrat and Chronicle (Rochester, New York). February 19, 1896.

[4] The Photo-Beacon. Vol. 15. Chicago: The Photo-Beacon Company, 1903.

B. E. Pudney – New Gallery of Delaware County, NY Postcards

Sat, 03 Jun 2023 12:00:00 GMT

I have recently acquired around 50 postcards that were published by B. E. Pudney. Although Pudney’s postcards depict scenes from all the counties and regions surrounding the village of Sidney, my collection focuses mostly on the Catskills portion of Delaware County. The postcards include scenes from Masonville, Sidney, East Sidney and Delhi. The postcards depict village scenes, buildings, churches, bridges, roads, waterfalls and landscapes Although not published by Pudney, there is also a postcard showing his store titled “B. E. Pudney’s Piano and Music Store.”

The gallery also includes 40 advertisements published in the local newspapers by Pudney from throughout his business career.

The complete collection of postcards can be found by navigating to Gallery >> Historic Catskills Photographers >> B. E. Pudney.

View N. W. From South Road, Masonville, N.Y.

The Mill Pond, Masonville, N.Y.

Birds-eye View, Sidney, N.Y.

New Iron Bridge, Sidney, N.Y.

Main Street, looking North, Sidney, N.Y.

Mill Dam and Falls, East Sidney, N.Y.

Woolerton Street Bridge, Delhi, N.Y.

County House, Delhi, N.Y.

Watauga Falls, Delhi, N.Y.

John G. Stenger – Callicoon Depot, New York Photographer

Sat, 27 May 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Introduction

John G. Stenger was a popular photographer at the hamlet of Callicoon Depot in the 1890s to the early 1900s. He was noted for both his landscape and portrait work. Anthony Stenger, John’s father, also worked as a photographer for many years at Callicoon Depot and at the hamlet of North Branch.

Country Scene, by J. G. Stenger

Country Scene, by J. G. Stenger. Author's collection.

Biography

John G. Stenger was born in March 1865, the son of Anthony Stenger (1839-1915) and Fredericka (Weingartner) Stenger (1840-1919), both natives of Germany. Anthony was born on September 8, 1839 at Darmstadt, Germany and immigrated to the United States in 1852. He resided in New York City for four years and then settled at Mileses in the town of Fremont, Sullivan County, New York.

In May, 1863, Anthony married Fredericka Weingartner. She was a native of Stuttgart, Germany who immigrated to the United States in 1859. Together they had four children, including John; Mary Anna (Stenger) Schonger (1866-1928), wife of Dr. Adolph H. Schonger, the well-known physician at North Branch; Henry J. Stenger (1866-1935), a painter and well-regarded musician, and later a foreman in the paint shops of the Long Island Railroad Company; and Anthony Stenger (1873-1939), an optometrist with the firm of Stenger and Stenger at 398 Broadway in Brooklyn for 30 years. Mary Anna and Henry were twins.

Anthony was a house painter by trade, and combined that occupation with photography and musical work. He was prominent in the musical scene of the area, being a member of several bands and orchestras. “Mr. Stenger was a musician with exceptional talent and has furnished the music for the dances in that section of the county for the last fifty years and was known and beloved by all.”[1]

Anthony first established a photograph gallery at Callicoon Depot sometime in the 1870s. At Stenger’s gallery, you could “get your photograph taken, which will be better looking than you really are.”[2] In 1881 the local newspaper noted that “Mr. S. is a good photographer, and no doubt he will do a good trade in his line.”[3]

After moving from Callicoon Depot to the hamlet of North Branch in the late 1890s, Anthony established another gallery there. The local newspaper noted in 1898 that “Anthony Stenger, the North Branch artist and photographer, is established in his new quarters and I learn is doing a good business. Mr. Stenger has had a long experience of his profession, and gives satisfaction.”[4]

Anthony Stenger continued to operate his photograph gallery until poor health no longer allowed him to work. He was a member of the Free Masons, being one of the first members of the chapter at Callicoon Center. He was also a member of the Knights of Honor.

Anthony was well regarded in the community. Upon his passing it was written that “Mr. Stenger was the kind of man it does you good to meet. His greeting was always happy, hearty and sincere; there was not an artificial streak in him. He was the personification of good nature, a genial companion, a true friend. He has added his full share of happiness to the world with the sunshine and melody which came forth from his soul.”[5]

Upon the death of Mary Anna, John’s sister, in 1928, the local newspaper wrote of her parents Anthony and Fredericka Stenger.

“The Stengers were a musical family, which added to their social atmosphere. The old folks, Pop and Mom Stenger, spent their later years on the Dietrichsen place just below North Barnch, where Pop had a photograph gallery and where many musical gatherings were held. Pleasant memories of the Stengers will long linger in the minds of those who have been so fortunate as to partake of their hospitality and good cheer.”[6]

Anthony passed away on January 30, 1915 at the age of 75 from a cerebral hemorrhage at his home in North Branch. He had been in poor health for some time, having suffered three strokes, two of which were within 48 hours of his death. The funeral services were conducted by Reverend J. E. Straub. Fredericka passed away in 1919 from pneumonia. Anthony and his wife Fredericka are both buried at Grace Lutheran Cemetery in North Branch, New York.

John G. Stenger, our subject, spent his youth growing up in the town of Fremont. The 1875 New York State census listed 10-year-old John as living with his parents Anthony and Fredericka, along with his sister and two brothers. Anthony was listed with an occupation of Painter.

The 1880 United States census listed 14-year-old John as living with his parents Anthony and Fredericka, along with his sister and two brothers. He was listed as being “at school.” Anthony was listed with an occupation of Laborer.

After receiving his education, Stenger lived for four years living in New York City, but afterwards moved to Callicoon Depot, New York in his home county.

Callicoon Depot is beautifully situated along the Delaware River in Sullivan County, New York. The hamlet takes its name from the New York and Erie Railroad train depot which opened there in 1848. In 1906 the “Depot” part of the name was dropped by the U.S. Postal Service, and became simply Callicoon.

Stenger followed the several trades of his father, being a painter, photographer and musician. John was a noted house painter, with numerous mentions in the local newspapers of his work painting the houses of various community residents.

As a photographer, Stenger’s services included both landscape and portrait work. Advertisements noted that outdoor views and groups were a specialty. One 1895 advertisement from Stenger that was published in the Sullivan County Record stated “Don’t neglect the family, Come and Bring the children. All Work executed in good style and at moderate prices. Buildings, groups, scenery, schools and other outdoor work.” His gallery was located on South Street in Callicoon Depot.

Portrait, Young Man, by John G. Stenger

Portrait, Young Man, by J. G. Stenger. Author's collection.

Portrait, Baby, by J. G. Stenger. Author's collection.

The 1900 United States census listed Stenger as residing in the town of Delaware, Sullivan County. He was listed with an occupation of “House painter.”

In March 1900 Stenger erected and opened at Callicoon Depot “a new photograph gallery on his premises adjoining the school building. It will be equipped with the most up-to-date appliances for that line of business.”[7]

In 1895 Stenger was appointed coroner by New York State Governor Levi Morton to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Philip Metzger of Jeffersonville. In November 1895 he won the county election to serve a full term of three years as coroner. The local paper noted that Stenger had won his election despite spending very little. His expenses totaled only $8.25, of which $1.50 was to hire horses and $6.75 was for “treating at various hotels while introducing myself.” Of the four coroners elected, Stenger had received the highest number of votes.

Prior to his marriage John may have had a reputation as a ladies’ man. The Sullivan County Record wrote in 1895 that “I noticed J. G. Stenger, Callicoon Depot’s photographer, riding about town Tuesday on the laps of two dearies of the same place. Most fellows are satisfied with one at a time, but Johnnie don’t ’pear to be one of ’em.”

Stenger eventually settled down and married Mary Mitchell (1872-1938), daughter of Elias Mitchell of Callicoon Depot, on January 21, 1902. The service was held at the St. James Episcopal Church at Callicoon Depot and was officiated by Pastor H. C. Briggs. There were only a few relatives present at the ceremony, including John’s brother, Anthony Stenger Jr. of North Branch, and Mary’s sister, Ollie Mitchell. John and Mary had one son, Albert H. Stenger (1903-1973).

Elias Mitchell (1839-1912), Stenger’s father-in-law, was one of the oldest and most successful rivermen and raft pilots along the Delaware River. Both his father, Stephen Mitchell, and grandfather, Timothy Mitchell, were also well-known lumbermen and rivermen. Elias began his life as a lumberman and raft pilot at the age of 19, and continued with the trade until the spring of 1911. He was reported to have made as many as 21 trips down the river in a single year. He was affectionately referred to as “Deacon.”

Like his father Anthony, John was also an accomplished musician. He served as the musical conductor for the Callicoon dramatic society. In the early 1900s he served as leader of the Callicoon Depot orchestra while playing first violin. The reviews of Stenger’s leadership of the orchestra were very positive.

“A masquerade ball will be held in Harmonie Hall Feb. 22. All who attend will be given an opportunity to hear our new band, which, under the leadership of J. G. Stenger, has surpassed all expectations of its advancement.” – Tri-State Union (Port Jervis, New York). February 15, 1900.

“The new orchestra recently organized here deserves credit for the progress it has made for the short time it has been in existence. The members and instruments are as follows: J. G. Stenger, first violin; Ed Starck, second violin; Ed Robisch, cornet; Edward Gardner, trombone; William Kothe Jr., piano. Mr. Stenger is director. They have played in public a number of times, and the music is much appreciated.” – Sullivan County Record (Jeffersonville, New York). March 29, 1900.

“Wednesday evening last found the upper grade room of the school building packed . . . Special mention should be made of the faithful and untiring work done by our orchestra, led by J. G. Stenger, for the entertainment of those attending the Wednesday night meetings.” – Tri-States Union (Port Jervis, New York). March 29, 1900.

John G. Stenger died suddenly at 43 years of age at his home in Callicoon in 1908. John and his wife Mary, along with their son Albert, are buried at Callicoon Cemetery Old in Callicoon, New York.

[1] “Anthony Stenger.” Sullivan County Republican (Monticello, New York). February 12, 1915.

[2] “Milesville Directory.” Sullivan County Record (Jeffersonville, New York). October 10, 1879.

[3] “Callicoon Depot.” Republican Watchman (Monticello, New York). March 18, 1881.

[4] Tri-States Union (Port Jervis, New York). July 28, 1898.

[5] “Anthony Stenger.” Sullivan County Record (Jeffersonville, New York). February 4, 1915.

[6] “Apoplexy Takes Mrs. Dr. Schonger.” Sullivan County Record (Jeffersonville, New York). May 3, 1928.

[7] Tri-States Union (Port Jervis, New York). February 15, 1900.