Artist/Maker Blair Camera Co. (1878 - 1908)

Camera and accessories

1885-1895

Place madeBoston, Massachusetts, United States, North America

Wood, metal, glass, leather

Overall: 7 1/4 x 7 1/4 x 11 in. ( 18.4 x 18.4 x 27.9 cm )

Gift of John V. Irwin

1947.21

According to the accession records, this camera was used by the donor to photograph sights in Central Park. At the time, this required a permit from the New York City Parks Department.

DescriptionWooden, detective box camera with leather strap handle; hinged door on side with push-button release opens to reveal three double 4 x 5 inch glass plate negatives in wooden frames and clip mount holding 3 3/4 x 4 3/4 inch ground glass in wooden frame; interior lens with push-button shutter; rectangular viewing window in top and removable back panel; small, round hole (possibly for mounting on tripod) in bottom.

Markingsprinted: on rectangular ivory plaque inside door: "THE BLAIR CAMERA CO. / BOSTON. / PATENTED MARCH 29TH 87 / MAY 20TH 90 / OTHER PATENTS PENDING" printed: on one plate holder: "PATENTED, MAY 15, '83" and "THE BLAIR CAMERA CO. / PATENTED FEB 9TH, 1875. / SEPT. 2ND, 1884"

ClassificationsSCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY