Unidentified Boy (2017-92-28)

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified Boy

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unknown

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  The Lee Torliatt Family Album, 2017-92-28, digital copy by permission.

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Bartlett, Alice

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of alice bartlett

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Alice Bartlett

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: George Ross’ stamp

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  The Cyndi Logan Collection, digital copy by permission.

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Peoples, Ova M. (1 of 2)

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Ova m. peoples

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Ova M. Peoples

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: George Ross’ stamp

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  The Cyndi Logan Collection, digital copy by permission.

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Blackburn, Charles Sr. (1821-1897) (1 of 2)

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Charles Blackburn, Sr.

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTERS:

Name: Charles Blackburn, Sr.

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  cabinet card, approximately 10.75 x 16.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  The Carol Cook Collection, digital copy by permission.

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Rodd, Mary Jane Blackburn (1858-1940) (7 of 8)

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Mary Jane Blackburn Rodd

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Names: Mary Jane Blackburn Rodd

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  cabinet card, approximately 10.75 x 16.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  The Carol Cook Collection, digital copy by permission.

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Faith, George Blackburn (1880-1924) (2 of 2)

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of George Blackburn Faith

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: George Blackburn Faith

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  cabinet card, approximately 10.75 x 16.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  The Carol Cook Collection, digital copy by permission.

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Faith, George Blackburn (1880-1924)(1 of 2)

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Charles Blackburn, Sr. and George Blackburn Faith

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTERS:

Name: Charles Blackburn, Sr. and George Blackburn Faith

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  cabinet card, approximately 10.75 x 16.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  The Carol Cook Collection, digital copy by permission.

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Blackburn, Charles Sr. (1821-1897)(2 of 2)

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Charles Blackburn, Sr. and George Blackburn Faith

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTERS:

Name: Charles Blackburn, Sr. and George Blackburn Faith

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  cabinet card, approximately 10.75 x 16.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  The Carol Cook Collection, digital copy by permission.

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Blackburn, Unidentified Son

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an unidentified Blackburn Son

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified Blackburn son

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  The Carol Cook Collection, digital copy by permission.

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Blackburn, Jemima Jane Richardson

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Jemima Jane Richardson Blackburn

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Names: Jemima Jane Richardson Blackburn (presumably)

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  The Carol Cook Collection, digital copy by permission.

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Rodd, Mary Jane Blackburn (1858-1940) (3 of 8)

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Mary Jane Blackburn Rodd

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTERS:

Names: Mary Jane Blackburn Rodd

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  The Carol Cook Collection, digital copy by permission.

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Blackburn, Unidentified Children

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of two unidentified Blackburn children

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTERS:

Names: Unidentified

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  The Carol Cook Collection, digital copy by permission.

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Baker, Aletha Hall O'Brien (1883-1966) (1 of 2)

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Aletha Hall o’brien baker

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


 THE SITTER:

Name: Aletha Hall O’Brien Baker. At the time this photo was taken, the sitter would have been known as Aletha Hall.

Description: This sturdy baby has been sat on a ledge, and she has assumed a full-frontal pose. Her feet dangle over the edge. She is wearing dark Mary Janes shoes and white, calf-high socks. The cuffs and hem of her white dress are embellished with a thick border of elaborate lace.

Biographical Note: Aletha Hall was born in Petaluma in 1883, the eldest child of Gilbert and Mary Louise Brown Hall.  She was educated at Petaluma schools and the Ursuline Academy in Santa Rosa and for a while ran her own millinery store in Petaluma.  In 1907 she married local physician Dr. John Thomas O’Brien and the couple was blessed with three children, Margaret in 1908, Kathleen in 1911, and John T., Jr., in 1913. During the First World War, Dr. O’Brien received a commission to the Army Medical Corps and was stationed in San Diego.  Aletha drove south with her children to be near him and when he was honorably discharged they all returned to Petaluma to their beautiful home on several acres near Oak Hill Park.  In 1920 the O’Briens sold their home and moved to San Francisco.  In 1926 Dr. O’Brien died there at the age of 63.  Several years later Aletha married Walter Baker, an officer with the Metropolitan Insurance Company.  Walter died in 1933 and Aletha, at the age of 50, was again a widow.

Aletha led a busy life as a widow.  She settled in Palo Alto and was highly involved with her family which included twelve grandchildren.  She never moved back to Petaluma but always kept her connection, often visiting relatives and friends there, and frequently sending notices of family events to the Argus Courier.  She was frequently involved in local events, acting as a guest speaker at AAUW meetings and as a frequent chairperson at political conferences.  She was a staunch Democrat and after Eisenhower’s win expressed herself with one of the first bumper stickers:  Don’t Blame Me!  I voted Democrat!  Aletha Hall O’Brien Baker died in 1966 and was buried in the O’Brien Plot in the Catholic Calvary Cemetery in Petaluma.

*This biographical note was written by Aletha Hall O’Brien Baker’s descendant, Kathleen O’Brien Balestrini.

Family Affiliation: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/42033731/aletha-o'brien_baker

Bibliography: Petaluma Argus-Courier, September, 20, 1966, p. 5 (obituary); The Peninsula Times Tribune (Palo Alto, CA), September 20, 1966, p. 4 (obituary).


THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size: Cabinet card

Medium: gelatin or collodion photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front: The staging of this portrait is elaborate. It creates the illusion of an exterior window. On the left is a trellis covered in vines, and above and to the right is a white curtain and a fringed scalloped valance.

Description, back: Handwritten in pencil is, “Aletha Hall”, “(1883 - 1966)”, and “2 years old, ca 1885”.

Date: c. 1885

Condition: This cabinet card is in good condition.

Owner: From the collection of Kathleen O’Brien Balestrini, digital copy by permission.

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Lewis, John Davis (1875-1885)(2 of 2)

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of John Davis Lewis

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: John Davis Lewis

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date: circa 1862-1893

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, Barbara Webster Collection, 2022-214-313

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Lewis, John Davis (1875-1885)(1 of 2)

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of John Davis Lewis

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: John Davis Lewis

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date: circa 1862-1893

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, Barbara Webster Collection, 2022-214-311

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

“Young Gentleman Wearing a Polka-Dotted Vest”

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of a “Young Gentleman Wearing a polka-dotted vest”

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Unknown

Description: In this portrait, a young man is seated in a one-armed, fringed, studio chair. With a serious gaze, he looks directly at the viewer. His dark hair is combed back away from his face, and his mustache, goatee and beard are carefully groomed. Beneath his jacket he wears an eye-catching, dark vest decorated with light-colored polka dots. Fastened to the vest’s top button is a looping metallic chain.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front: The background of this carte de visite is a painted backdrop depicting an architectural column on the left and wall paneling on the right.

Description, back: On the center back of this carte de visite is a later version of George Ross’ imprint.

Date: 1870s or 1880s

Condition: The front of this carte de visit is in good condition; the back has several small brown blotches.

Owner:  Pete Vilmur Collection, digital copy by permission

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional

Hopes, Edward S. (1834 or 1835 -1909)(2 of 3)

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George Ross’ Photograph of edward S. Hopes Seated in a horse-drawn carriage

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


 THE SITTER:

Name: Edward S. Hopes

Description: Carte de visites taken outdoors are rare, and in this example, Edward Hope is seen seated in a horse-drawn carriage. He holds the reins, looks at the viewer and is dressed in a dark overcoat and hat. The horse and carriage have been posed beside a stream of water, and although the background is faint, the masts of a scow schooner can be seen directly above Hopes’ head. This photograph was probably taken in Petaluma. The building above the horse’s head may be a McNear warehouse which was strategically located on the banks of the Petaluma River where scow schooners could transport its wares.

Biographical Note: Arriving in Petaluma in 1854, Edward Hopes, a native of Canada, was among Petaluma’s earliest pioneers. He initially worked as the manager of the blacksmith shop for the Fritsch & Stafford Carriage and Harness Company. In July 1870, he left Fritsch & Stafford and purchased the wagon and blacksmith shop of Mr. James M. Langley on Kentucky Street. In May 1878, Hopes began construction of his Petaluma residence, which was located at the corner of Howard and Prospect Streets, and it was reported to be among Petaluma’s finest. Hopes was a veteran member of Petaluma Lodge No. 30, I.O.O.F. and was the Noble Grand of the lodge from January to July 1879. In his old age, he retired to the Odd Fellows’ Home in Thermalito, where he died in 1909. He was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park beside his wife, Ellen (Nellie) R. Humphrey Hopes (1839 - 1907 or 1908). His obituary stated, “…for few men were more generally esteemed by all than was this rugged old pioneer who was a living exemplification of the honest, faithful, toiling ‘village blacksmith.’”

Family Affiliation: Edward Hopes was the husband of Ellen (Nellie) R. Humphries (Humphrey) Hopes (1839 - 1907 or 1908) and father to Anna M. Hopes Fritsch (1858-1938). Ellen Hopes was her stepmother.

Bibliography:


THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size: carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front: This carte de visite’s horizontal format and outdoor setting are rare.

Description, back: Handwritten in pencil along the top edge of the card is, “Mr Hope” [sic]. Below this inscription is an early Ross Petaluma imprint. The vertical sides of the card contain remnants of formerly placed strips of tape.

Date: 1860s

Condition: The front of this card is faded, and the back contains remnants of previously placed vertical strips of tape.

Owner:  Private Collection, digital copy by permission. The owner of this carte de visite reported that it was purchased at the same time as the standing portrait of Edward Hopes taken by Bryan R. Johnson in this collection. The owner also reported that they were informed that both carte de visites came from the same photo album, which contained the inscription, “Top: Two pictures of Mr. Ed Hope [sic], in charge of the blacksmith shop in the Fritsch-Stafford carriage and harness business.”

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Unidentified Infant 2022-952-01-pg48d2

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified infant

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date: 1870s or 1880s

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2022-952-01-pg48d2, Schowebda/Bloom/Taylor/DeMartin Family & Friends Album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Unidentified Infant 2022-952-01-pg48b

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified infant

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park.(For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date: 1870s or 1880s

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2022-952-01-pg49b, Schowebda/Bloom/Taylor/DeMartin Family & Friends Album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

“Two Standing Young Boys”

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of “two standing young Boys”

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other 19th century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived, photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he became an invalid in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTERS:

Names: Unidentified

Description: The composition of this double portrait is masterful. Two young boys, who are probably brothers, stand separated by a pedestal table but are intimately connected by the placement of their proximal hands upon the table’s top. Their hands form a tertiary focal point and an elegant anatomical arrangement. The boys’ distal hands, which lay loose at their sides, echo each other serving as parenthesis on the right and left center of the portrait. The older, significantly taller boy has been placed on the left, and his right leg has been positioned to enclose the bottom half of the composition and to display the elaborate embroidery on his pant leg. This boy exudes intense consternation, which clearly reveals his state of mind. One concludes that he is deeply disturbed by the process of having his portrait taken and is quite possibly unaccustomed to his attire. On the other end of the spectrum is the younger child, who appears completely comfortable and maybe even a bit bored. He casually crosses his right leg over his left and places the toe of his shoe on the floor. His attire reflects a distinct trend fashionable around the time of the civil war which mimicked the details typical of military uniforms.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front: Behind the young boys in this double portrait is a blank wall with a tall dado. Both boys lean on a small pedestal table covered with a bordered, floral textile.

Description, back: The back of this carte de visite contains an early version of George Ross’ imprint. It is printed in red ink in four lines of text. Each line of text is in a different font. Surrounding the text on all four sides is an elaborate ivy garland.

Date: 1862 - c. 1870

Condition: There is light foxing in the top center section of this carte de visite.

Owner:  Pete Vilmur Collection, digital copy by permission

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Unidentified Infant 2022-952-01-pg47a

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified infant

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date: 1870s or 1880s

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2022-952-01-pg47a, Schowebda/Bloom/Taylor/DeMartin Family & Friends Album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Unidentified Girl 2022-952-01-pg41d

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified Girl

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park.(For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, Schwobeda/Bloom/Taylor/DeMartin Family & Friends Album, 2022-952-01-pg41d

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Smith, Nancy A.

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Nancy A. Smith

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Nancy A. Smith

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  cabinet card, approximately 10.75 x 16.25 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date: circa 1862-1893

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, Schwobeda/Bloom/Taylor/DeMartin Family & Friends Album, 2022-952-01-40d

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Unidentified Girl 2022-952-01-40c

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified Girl

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, Schwobeda/Bloom/Taylor/DeMartin Family & Friends Album, 2022-952-01-pg40c

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Unidentified Boy 2022-952-01-38c

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified Boy

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Unknown

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date: circa 1864-1869

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, Schwobeda, Bloom, Taylor, DeMartin Family & Friends Album, 2022-952-01-pg38c

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Unidentified Man 2022-952-01-pg12a

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Unidentified Man

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description: CDV of a man's bust in an oval frame. He has mustache and is wearing a suit with a tie.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:


THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size: carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: George Ross’ stamp

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2022-952-01-pg12a, Schwobeda/Bloom/Taylor/DeMartin Family & Friends Album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Unidentified Woman 2022-952-01-pg32c

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified Woman

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other 19th century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived, photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he became an invalid in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Unknown

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2022-952-01-pg32c, Schwobeda/Bloom/Taylor/DeMartin Family & Friends Album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

“Apprehensive Woman Holding a Disgruntled Child”

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an “Apprehensive Woman HOlding a

Disgruntled Child”

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTERS:

Names: Unidentified

Description: In this double portrait, a young seated woman clutches a young girl on her lap. The woman looks at the photographer apprehensively as if to inform him that she is not certain the child will remain still. The woman’s dark hair is center-parted, pulled behind her ears, and allowed to fall behind her back. She wears a thin headband as well as a braid or ribbon at the crown of her head. Her dress is embellished with a white collar and cuffs. The skirt of her dress is double-layered, and its hem is ruffled. The child leans back and stares into the distance with a disgruntled demeanor. Her feet dangle in the center front of the composition, and she holds an indistinguishable object in both hands. She wears a dark dress with extensive ruffling, white stockings, and dark, lace-up boots.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front: This double portrait is contained within a vertical oval, and its backdrop displays an interior scene with elaborate architectural details.

Description, back:

Date:

Condition: This carte de visite is lightly soiled throughout.

Owner: Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2022-952-01-pg30a, Schwobeda/Bloom/Taylor/DeMartin Family & Friends Album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Unidentified Woman 2022-952-01-pg24d

/

George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified Woman

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other 19th century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived, photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he became an invalid in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Unknown

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2022-952-01-pg24d, Schwobeda/Bloom/Taylor/DeMartin Family & Friends Album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Unidentified Man 2022-952-01-pg24c

/

George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified Man

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2022-952-01-pg24c, Schwobeda/Bloom/Taylor/DeMartin Family & Friends Album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Unidentified Young Man 2022-952-01-pg21d

/

George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified young Man

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other 19th century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived, photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he became an invalid in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2022-952-01-pg21d, Schwobeda/Bloom/Taylor/DeMartin Family & Friends Album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Henry, Andrew (1821-1891)

/

George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Andrew Henry

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

 THE SITTER:

Name: Andrew Henry

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size: carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2022-952-01-19a, Schwobeda, Bloom, Taylor, DeMartin Family & Friends Album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Unidentified Couple 2022-952-01-pg7d

/

George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified Couple

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTERS:

Names: Unknown

Description: .

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:


THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: 

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, Schwobeda/Bloom/Taylor/DeMartin Family & Friends Album, 2022-952-01-pg7d

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Unidentified Couple 2022-952-01-pg7b

/

George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified Couple

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTERS:

Names: Unknown

Description: .

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:


THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: 

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, Schwobeda/Bloom/Taylor/DeMartin Family & Friends Album, 2022-952-01-pg7b

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Unidentified Couple 2022-952-01-pg7a

/

George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Unidentified Couple

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTERS:

Names: Unknown

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:


THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: 

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, Schwobeda/Bloom/Taylor/DeMartin Family & Friends Album, 2022-952-01-pg7a

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Unidentified Woman 2022-952-01-pg3b

/

George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an unidentified woman

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other 19th century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived, photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he became an invalid in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner: Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2022-952-01-pg3b, Schwobeda/Bloom/Taylor/DeMartin Family & Friends Album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Unidentified Woman 2022-952-01-pg2b

/

George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Unidentified Woman

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other 19th century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived, photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he became an invalid in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Unknown

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2022-952-01-pg2b, Schwobeda/Bloom/Taylor/DeMartin Family & Friends Album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Unidentified Man 2022-952-01-pg2a

/

George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified Man

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park.(For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2022-952-01-pg2a, Schwobeda/Bloom/Taylor/DeMartin Family & Friends Album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Unidentified Woman 2022-952-01-pg1d

/

George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an unidentified woman

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other 19th century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived, photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he became an invalid in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner: Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2022-952-01-pg1d, Schwobeda/Bloom/Taylor/DeMartin Family & Friends Album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Unidentified Man 2021-919-03

/

George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified Man

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park.(For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2021-919-03, original donated by Mike Van Dine

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Unidentified Man 2021-919-02

/

George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified Man

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2021-919-02, original donated by Mike Van Dine

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Unidentified Girl 2021-919-01

/

George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Unidentified Girl

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park.(For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: George Ross’ stamp

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2021-919-01, original donated by Mike Van Dine

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Heffner, Mary Elizabeth (1844-1913) (see Lovejoy)→

/

George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Mary Elizabeth Heffner Lovejoy

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other 19th century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived, photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he became an invalid in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Mary Elizabeth Heffner Lovejoy

Description: Mary Elizabeth Heffner Lovejoy is elegantly portrayed seated fully frontal in a studio chair. She turns her head slightly to the left and gazes into the lower distance. She wears a cuirass bodice with ruffled sleeves, a high neck and front buttons. At her neck is a trefoil lace jabot pinned at its center with a round brooch. She also wears a white lace ruff, and a long, drop earning can be seen dangling from her left ear. Her dark hair is parted in the center, and she wears a large braided hairpiece on the back of her head.

Biographical Note: Mary Elizabeth Heffner Lovejoy moved with her husband to Petaluma from Ohio some time after their marriage in 1858. Together they lived at #9 6th Street. She was a member of the Petaluma Woman’s Club, the Woman’s Relief Corps, and the Morning Star Chapter, OES.

Family Affiliation: In 1958 in Ohio Mary Elizabeth Heffner was married to Dr. George Edwin Lovejoy (1831-1906), and together they moved to Petaluma. Among their children were Dr. Frank Lovejoy, Dr. George Palmer Lovejoy (1877-1949), Jennie Lovejoy Spotwood (1874-1934), and Mrs. N. Oscar Stafford of Los Angeles.

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  cabinet card, approximately 10.75 x 16.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front: This is an elegant and unusual composition of a sitted lady. Mrs. Lovejoy’s body is presented fully frontal with her head turned slightly to the left. She rests her right arm on the fringed arm of a studio chair and holds her left arm away from her body. This pose reveals her slim waist. The arched top adds to the formality of the portrait. Along the bottom edge is the photographer’s imprint.

Description, back: Handwritten in cursive in pencil along the top is, “Clarke Family”. This is not an identification of the sitter, but may be an identification of the recipient. Below this is handwritten in pencil in print script, “Grandma Lovejoy”, “Mare Elizabeth Heffner” and “Lovejoy”.

Date: after 1880

Condition: There is extensive, heavy foxing throughout this portrait.

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1991-IDI-04

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

 

Lodge, Jennie (see Harris) 1992-IDI-07-p5-p9→

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Jennie Lodge Harris

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other 19th century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived, photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he became an invalid in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Jennie Lodge Harris

Description: CDV of a woman’s bust in an oval frame. She has sausage curls and a flower in her hair and is wearing a dress with lacy bodice and collar.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: “Jennie Lodge Jennie Harris”; George Ross’ stamp

Date: circa 1862-1893

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1992-IDI-07-p5-p9, from the Harris/Lodge Family Album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Lovejoy, Mary Elizabeth Heffner (1844-1913)

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Mary Elizabeth Heffner Lovejoy

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Mary Elizabeth Heffner Lovejoy

Description: Mary Elizabeth Heffner Lovejoy is elegantly portrayed seated fully frontal in a studio chair. She turns her head slightly to the right and gazes into the lower distance. She wears a cuirass bodice with ruffled sleeves, a high neck and front buttons. At her neck is a trefoil lace jabot pinned at its center with a round brooch. She also wears a white lace ruff, and a long, drop earning can be seen dangling from her left ear. Her dark hair is parted in the center, and she wears a large braided hairpiece on the back of her head.

Biographical Note: Mary Elizabeth Heffner Lovejoy moved with her husband to Petaluma from Ohio some time after their marriage in 1858. Together they lived at #9 6th Street. She was a member of the Petaluma Woman’s Club, the Woman’s Relief Corps, and the Morning Star Chapter, OES.

Family Affiliation: In 1958 in Ohio, Mary Elizabeth Heffner was married to Dr. George Edwin Lovejoy (1831-1906), and together they moved to Petaluma. Among their children were Dr. Frank Lovejoy, Dr. George Palmer Lovejoy (1877-1949), Jennie Lovejoy Spotwood (1874-1934), and Mrs. N. Oscar Stafford of Los Angeles.

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  cabinet card, approximately 10.75 x 16.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front: This is an elegant and unusual composition of a seated lady. Mrs. Lovejoy’s body is presented fully frontal with her head turned slightly to the right. She rests her right arm on the fringed arm of a studio chair and holds her left arm away from her body. This pose reveals her slim waist. The arched top adds to the formality of the portrait. Along the bottom edge is the photographer’s imprint.

Description, back: Handwritten in cursive in pencil along the top is, “Clarke Family”. This is not an identification of the sitter, but may be an identification of the recipient. Below this is handwritten in pencil in print script, “Grandma Lovejoy”, “Mare Elizabeth Heffner” and “Lovejoy”.

Date: after 1880

Condition: There is extensive, heavy foxing throughout this portrait.

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1991-IDI-04

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

 

Eno, (Mary) Eltha Crippen Nay (1861-1943)

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of (Mary) Eltha Crippen Nay Eno & Edwina C. Crippen

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTERS:

Names: (Mary) Eltha Crippen Nay Eno & Edwina C. Crippen. When this portrait was taken, Eltha would have been known by her maiden name, Eltha Crippen. Edwina Crippen never married.

Description: This double portrait depicting the Crippen sisters is masterful. The older sister, Edwina, is seated on a one-armed studio chair while her sister, Eltha, six years her junior, stands next to her. With an elegant, confident posture and a self-possessed gaze, Edwina looks directly at the viewer while Eltha glances to the left with an air of apprehension. With a slightly submissive posture, Eltha leans towards Edwina and, with a childlike gesture, places her hand on her sister’s shoulder. Edwina wears a full-length, striped, waisted dress with a hem of six wide ruffles and full-length sleeves that terminate in a border of white lace. A black ribbon defines the yoke of her dress, and a matching ribbon has been tied under her white lace collar. Eltha wears a cuirass bodice over a calf-length skirt. Her short skirt and boots were the apparel of a girl; adult woman at this time wore their skirts full-length. Both sisters wear a thin black choker and dangling earrings. Their shoulder-length hair is curled and restrained with a ribbon headband.


Biographical Note: Eltha was born in Michigan on August 20, 1861, and traveled with her family to Petaluma in her early childhood. She lived with her sister, Edwina, for many years in their family home at 305 Liberty Street. They appear to have been very adventurous; they often traveled long distances together by car when it was unusual for ladies to do so. Their trips were often mentioned in the Petaluma newspapers. Early in her business career, Eltha owned the Woman’s Exchange in Petaluma. She actively managed the store for several years before hiring a manager in January 1922 and selling the business in September 1923. Beginning in March 1922, Eltha was listed in the Petaluma Daily Morning Courier as an authorized member of the Petaluma Realty Board, and for twenty years she worked in Petaluma as a realtor and insurance agent. Eltha died at 82 on September 25, 1943, in Crescent City, California, where she and her husband had recently traveled in hopes of improving her health. She was buried in Petaluma’s Calvary Catholic Cemetery.

Family Affiliation: Eltha’s parents were Petaluma pioneers, Perry W. Crippen (1823-1888) and Harriet Amelia Bump Crippen (1833-1924). She had three older brothers: Everton J. Crippen (1849-1922); Marvin A. Crippen (1854-1910); and Commodore Perry Crippen (1859-1906). She had one sister, Edwina C. Crippen (1855-1939). Eltha married Heber L. Nay in Santa Rosa June 5, 1884. They were divorced in 1921 after he filed for divorce on the grounds of desertion. They had no children. Eltha later married Joseph T. Eno.

Bibliography: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/136412553/eltha-eno, Petaluma Argus-Courier: October 4, 1921, p.8; October 25, 1921, p.2; January 28, 1922, p.2; September 26, 1923, p. 1; May 28, 1938, p.2; September 27, 1943, p. 3; September 28, 1943, p.6. Petaluma Daily Morning Courier: January 27, 1922, p.5. Petaluma Daily Mourning Courier: January 28, 1922, p. 4; March 25, 1922, p.6. The Press Democrat, September 29, 1943, p.5.

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front: The only background detail in this carte de visite is a horizontal strip of wall molding.

Description, back: George Ross’ imprint is on the center of the back of this carte de visite.

Date: 1870-1875

Condition: The portrait is slightly soiled throughout, and the top edge of the card has been trimmed.

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1979-425-01-p33-p21, Church Family & Friends Album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Coflin, Ida Brown (born c. 1858 )

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Emma S. Elder and Ida Brown

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTERS:

Name: Emma S. Elder Coggeshall Cady and Ida Brown Coflin. This portrait was taken before either of these two young women had married, when they would have been known by their maiden names, Emma S. Elder and Ida Brown.

Description: The two, young, unmarried, women portrayed in this carte de visite were most probably close friends. Emma Elder stands confidently on the viewer’s left, resting her hands authoritatively on the right shoulder of Ida Brown. Elder gazes directly at the viewer, her full face open to the camera. Brown sits calmly on the right; her gaze lowered and to the right. The women are dressed almost identically. Both wear heavy, dark, complex dresses typical of the first half of the 1870s. Both dresses have a full, flounced and ruffled, underskirt and a shorter, top skirt which is gathered at the sides creating a type of front apron. Both women have wide, large cuffs trimmed in white lace, and high, white, lace, collars around which are draped fringed neck scarves. Elder’s dress also includes a full bustle.

Biographical Note: Petaluma papers mention Ida Brown throughout the 1870s and 1880s in the sections dedicated to commenting on Petaluma’s social events for young adults. By 1881 she was living in Alameda, but often returned to visit her friends in Petaluma. She married P. Gardner Coflin in 1887 and moved to Catskills, New York.

Family Affiliation: Ida Brown Coflin’s parents were early Petaluma residents Captain John K. Brown (1820 -1902), a steamboat navigator and Helen W. Walter Brown(1837-1892). Both were buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Cemetery. Ida had three brothers: Thomas H. Brown (born c. 1855) who worked as a telegraph operator in Petaluma, William W. Brown (1862-1905) and George H. Brown (1868 or 69 - 1922). The wife of Thomas H. Brown was also named Ida, and she is referred to in the Petaluma papers as “Mrs. Ida Brown”.

Bibliography: Petaluma Weekly Argus, Oct. 8, 1870, p. 2; Jan. 6, 1872, p. 3; Nov. 28, 1873, p. 3; Nov. 27, 1874, p. 3; April 30, 1875, p. 2; Nov. 29, 1878, p. 3; Sept. 14, 1881, p. 2; April 28, 1882, p. 3. Petaluma Courier, April 26, 1882, p. 3; Dec. 7, 1887, p. 3. Petaluma Daily Morning Courier, Dec. 1, 1902, p. 1. Petaluma Argus-Courier, Nov. 8, 1902, p. 1. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/72441330/helen-w-brown

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front: Double portrait of two young women in front of a backdrop depicting a grand architectural interior.

Description, back: Handwritten in black ink cursive, “Miss Ida Brown”, “ Emma Elder”, “April 23rd 1874”, “Petaluma”, and “Cal.”. On the center back is the photographer’s imprint which reads: “From George Ross’ Art and Photograph Gallery, Main St., Petaluma, Cal. (Immediately opposite the American Hotel.)”.

Date: April 23rd, 1874

Condition: There are small stains and extensive foxing throughout, and the corners have been clipped.

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1984-289-05

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

“Young Child Placed in a Provocative Pose”

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of a “Young child Placed in a Provocative pose”

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other 19th century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived, photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he became an invalid in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description: In this portrait, a female child has been placed in a provocative pose, and she assumes a seductive demeanor that may be disturbing for some viewers. She stands relaxed, leaning casually on a fringed studio chair, and, in a nonchalant gesture, she crosses her right leg over her left and places only the toe of her right boot on the floor. Her focused and intense gaze, which is directed at the viewer, is both captivating and unsettling. The child wears drop earrings, and her center-parted hair has been brushed back behind her shoulders. Her ensemble is mismatched. Over her light-colored, calf-length skirt, which is conservatively adorned with three bands of dark trim, is a peplum tunic adorned with light-colored, soutouche embroidery. Her revealing, off-the-shoulder tunic has embroidered, capped sleeves and a bold, scalloped hem.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front: This child poses in front of a backdrop painted to give the illusion of a grand interior. A standard, fringed, studio chair has been used as a prop.

Description, back: George Ross’ imprint appears in the center of the back of this card.

Date: late 1860s - 1870s

Condition: All four corners of this card have been clipped, and the bottom edge has been trimmed. The back is soiled.

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2022-946-01

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

“Standing Young Girl With a Sprig of Flowers in Her Hair”

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of a

“Standing Young girl with a sprig of flowers in her hair”

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other 19th century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived, photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he became an invalid in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description: This young girl, although appearing a bit apprehensive, strikes a graceful pose standing next to a fringed studio chair. Her hair is center-parted, and her shoulder-length curls are restrained by a thin, dark headband. Below the headband, on her right side, a sprig of flowers has been placed amidst her curls. She wears a dark, thin choker and a round brooch which connects the ends of her white lace neck ribbon. Her ensemble is atypical and may very well be a homemade design. Over a calf-length skirt trimmed in three rows of dark ribbon, she wears a long-sleeved overdress which is gathered at the waist, and a wide, dark, lace, trim has been applied to its deep, four-point hemline. She wears white leggings and dark, leather, lace-up boots.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front: In this portrait a young girl stands in front of a blank wall. She has placed her right hand on the arm of the fringed studio chair, over which a length of cloth has been draped.

Description, back: George Ross’ imprint appears in red ink in the center.

Date: This is one of George Ross’ earlier portraits, most probably created sometime between 1865 and 1875.

Condition: This card is slightly soiled throughout.

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2022-946-02

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Farquar, Mary Irene Clark (1858-1941)(1 of 5)

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Mary Irene Clark Farquar

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Mary Irene Clark Farquar

Description: Mary Irene Clark Farquar is fashionably dressed in this head-and-shoulders portrait. She wears a dark, satin jacket with shiny, metal, front buttons, and around her neck is a white scarf made of many layers of tassels. She wears large pendant earrings, and a bar pin appears directly below her chin. Her dark hair is center-parted and has been carefully crimped to create distinct waves which frame both sides of her face.

Biographical Note: Mary Irene Clark Farquar was born in Petaluma on the “Clark Ranch” owned by her pioneer parents. She was raised in Petaluma and then attended Mills Seminary (later known as Mills College) between 1874 and 1875. After the death of her first husband in 1908, Mary purchased a ranch in Sonoma Valley at Madrone Station where she lived with her widowed mother, Rachael Jane Murray Clark. In 1919, Mary married an Oakland real estate investor, L. M. Channel. According to their marriage announcement, they planned to live on Mary’s ranch. It appears Mary was never referred to as “Mrs. Channel”. Even after her second marriage, she continued to be referred to as “Mrs. Farquar” or “Mrs. Farquar Sr.” Even her funeral announcement and obituary refer to her as Mrs. Farquar. She was buried in the Farquar family plot in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. As it seems she never acknowledged the name “Channel”, this archive has filed her portraits under her last acknowledged name, Farquar.

Family Affiliation: Mary Irene Clark Farquar was a member of an early Petaluma pioneer family. Her father, Almer Clark (1829-1899), came to California by way of the Isthmus of Panama, and her mother, Rachael Jane Murray Clark (1838 - 1930), a native of Missouri, crossed the plains with her parents in 1848 or 1852. Almer and Rachael established the “Clark Ranch” on Petaluma Hill Road which served as a “Half-Way” house for the stage coaches traveling between Sacramento and Willits. In 1876, Mary married Calvin Stuart Farquar (1848-1908). Together they had five children: Frederick Stuart Farquar (1879-1962), Ben Harold Farquar (1881-1965), Thomas Allen Farquar (1891-1956), Helen Farquar (b. & d. dates to be determined) and Marion Irene Farquar (b. & d. dates to be determined). There are many additional portraits of Farquar family members in this archive.

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size: cabinet card

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front: George Ross’ imprint appears in an especially elegant font along the bottom edge.

Description, back: The back of this cabinet card is blank or contains only an accession number.

Date: It is quite probable that this portrait was taken in the fall of 1880. A baby portrait of Mary’s son, Frederick Stuart Farquar (1879-1962), also by George Ross is in this archive, and on its back side is written, “Fred. S. Farquar 10 months”, and “Born 12/23/1879 Died 11/30/1962”. It is logical to conclude that the mother took her baby to Ross’ studio and had both their portraits taken. Additionally, both portraits have the same elegant, George Ross imprint upon the front bottom edge.

Condition: This cabinet card is soiled especially along its edges.

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1978-80-44-p17-p33, Farquar Family Album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

“Little Girl With A Gingham Hair Bow”

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of a “Little Girl With a Gingham Hair Bow”

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other 19th century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived, photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he became an invalid in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description: In this portrait a little girl stands on a fringed, studio chair holding her hands in front of her. She looks up into the camera with an anticipatory gaze. She wears a white, simple, long-sleeved, calf-length, frock. The lace of her undergarment can been seen surrounding her right leg at the top of her dark leather boot. In her blonde, disheveled hair, she wears a gingham bow.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  cabinet card, approximately 10.75 x 16.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front: George Ross’ fringed studio chair has been used as a prop for this child to stand upon. This may account for the fact that this portrait is a bit out-of-focus.

Description, back: George Ross’ imprint appears in the center between two short flourishes.

Date:

Condition: Although a bit out-of-focus, this card is in good condition.

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1995-633-45

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Poehlman, Henry

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Henry Poehlman

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Henry Poehlman

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: George Ross’ stamp

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1994-633-35

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Webster, Nellie Louise Cassidy (1863-1930)

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Nellie Louise Cassidy Webster

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other 19th century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived, photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he became an invalid in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Nellie Louise Cassidy Webster (This portrait may have taken when the sitter was known by her maiden name, Nellie Louise Cassidy.)

Description: Nellie Louise Cassidy Webster appears here with no ornamentation except for the metal bar brooch at her neck. Her hair is parted on her right and disheveled curls appear on either side of her brow. She wears two collars. A white band collar is visible beneath the dark band collar of her blouse. Her blouse has a distinct row of metal front buttons, and it is constructed with vertical stripes of velvet alternating with lighter sections of fabric topped with colored textured strings.

Biographical Note: Nellie was raised on her pioneering parents’ Petaluma cherry orchard farm, a depiction of which can be found in Thomas H. Thompson’s Historical Atlas Map of Sonoma County, p. 45, plate 86. She was mentioned in the Petaluma papers in 1876 and 1877 as receiving awards for her needlework, and in 1885 she married an educator, Calvin B. Webster (1859-1903) and moved with him to Solano County.

Family Affiliation: Nellie Louise Cassidy Webster was the daughter of the Petaluma pioneers, John Wintermute Cassidy (1822-1903) and Laura Cassidy (1829-1913). The couple moved to Petaluma in 1854 and planted the first commercial cherry orchard in the county. Consequently, the area surrounding their home and orchard became known as Cherry Valley. Nellie was the wife of educator Calvin B. Webster (1859-1903).

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  cabinet card

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front: This is a standard head-and-shoulders portrait, and along its bottom edge is George Ross’ imprint.

Description, back: Handwritten in cursive in pencil is, “Nellie Cassidy”, “Mrs. Webster”, “Friend”, “Lillian A Lovejoy Stafford”.

Date:

Condition: This card is heavily soiled on the front, and the back retains along its top and bottom edges remnants of previously applied tape.

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1978-80-39

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

 

Unidentified Girl 1985-X-36

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Unidentified Girl

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description: Cabinet card of a young unidentified girl sitting on a fringe studio chair. The girl's hair is parted down the middle and shaped into two curls. One hand rests on the arm of the chair and one leg dangles off the edge, She is wearing a white dress with lace detailing and a scalloped hemline, and striped socks with boots. Based on the appearance of the fringe chair, and the girl's clothing I would date this photo to the 1870's.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  cabinet card, approximately 10.75 x 16.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: The back of this cabinet card is blank or contains only an accession number.

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1985-X-36

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

“Seated Baby With Top Curl”

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of a Seated Baby With Top Curl

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other 19th century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived, photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he became an invalid in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description: Sitting on Ross’ studio chair propped by its armrest, this unidentified baby gleefully looks directly into the camera. The baby sits frontally with his left knee bent and his legs crossed at his ankles. The blurriness of his left hand suggests he moved slightly out of position. The baby is dressed in a checkered, long-sleeve dress with three strips of dark ribbon surrounding his cuffs and four strips surrounding the bottom section of his dress. Beneath his dress, he wears a white petticoat with a scalloped, crocheted lace hem. In a style popular at the time, his hair is parted on both sides and drawn up into a distinctive curl at the top of his head.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front: There are many portraits of Petaluma pioneers’ infants, babies, toddlers, and children, but none surpass the charm of this example. George Ross’ skill is evident in this early example of his work. For Ross’ own comments on photographing children see: Ross PDF

Description, back: George Ross’ imprint appears in the center of the back of this card. Above and below the imprint is a decorative flourish.

Date:

Condition: Both sides of this card are slightly soiled.

Owner:  Private collection, digital copy by permission

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

“Young Woman With an Elaborate Coiffure and Simple Choker”

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of a

“Young Woman with an Elaborate Coiffure and Simple Choker”

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other 19th century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived, photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he became an invalid in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description: This unidentified, petite, young woman is dressed in a front-buttoned, fitted bodice which is topped with a lace collar. The sitter’s narrow, black, ribbon choker is highlighted with a small, gold, bow-shaped brooch. Her elaborate coiffure with its full crown and back curls is adorned above her forehead with a dark, shiny bow, and falling below her bow are soft ringlet curls adorning her forehead. The soft lighting, demure lowered gaze, and oval matte create an intimate, lovely, feminine portrait. Curiously, there is something in her alluring charm and slightly disheveled hair that evoke today’s Gothic, Steampunk aesthetic.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front: This portrait is contained within a vertical oval.

Description, back: One of George Ross’ earliest imprints appears on the back of this card. It is surrounded by a boarder of ivy leaves.

Date: Between the late 1860s and early 1870s. Although one of Ross’ earliest Petaluma portraits, this example illustrates his skills as an exceptionally fine photographer.

Condition: There is light foxing throughout both the back and front sides of this carte de visite. All four corners of this card have been clipped.

Owner:  Private collection, digital copy by permission

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Hussey, Joel 2004-315-1-p32-p41

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Joel Hussey

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

 THE SITTER:

Name: Joel Hussey

Description: CDV of elderly man with a beard wearing a suit.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size: carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: “Joel Hussey Born July 21st 1801”; George Ross’ stamp

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2004-315-1-p32-p41, McCleave Family album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Unidentified Infant 2004-315-1-p16-p18

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified infant

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description: CDV of an infant wearing a polka dot dress with chevron striping.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation: The original of this portrait remains as donated to PHL&M in the vintage McCleave Family album.

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size: carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: In the center of the back of this carte de visite is an early George Ross imprint. It is surrounded by a frame of decorative leaves, flowers and flourishes.

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2004-315-1-p16-p18, McCleave Family album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Unidentified Man 2004-315-02-LP35

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Unidentified Man

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description: CDV of a man’s bust. He is wearing a suit and has a mustache.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation: The original of this portrait remains as donated to the PHL&M in the vintage McCleave Family album.

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size: carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: George Ross’ stamp

Date:  

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2004-315-02-LP35, McCleave Family album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Unidentified Man 2004-315-1-p32-42

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Unidentified Man

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description: CDV of man with a beard wearing a suit.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation: The original of this portrait remains as donated to the PHL&M in the vintage McCleave Family album.

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size: carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: George Ross’ stamp

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2004-315-1-p32-p42, McCleave Family album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Unidentified Girl 2004-315-1-p14-p15

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Unidentified Girl

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park.(For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description: CDV in an oval frame f a girl with short curly bangs. She is wearing a dress with pleating on the chest, and high collar, and a necklace

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation: The original of this portrait remains as donated to the PHL&M in the vintage McCleave Family album.

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size: carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: George Ross’ stamp

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2004-315-1-p14-p15, McCleave Family album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

McCleave, Minnie 2004-315-03-p49-p49

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Minnie McCleave

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Minnie McCleave

Description: CDV a young girl sitting on a studio prop blanket wearing a communion gown.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: “Minnie McCleave”; George Ross’ stamp

Date: c. 1862-1893

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2004-315-03-p49-p49, McCleave Family album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

McCleave, N.P. 2004-315-03-p48-p48

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of NP McCleave

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: NP McCleave

Description: CDV a young girl sitting on a studio prop blanket wearing a plaid dress with chevron striping with a lacy slip

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size: carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: “NP McCleave”; George Ross’ stamp

Date: c. 1862-1893

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2004-315-03-p48-p48, McCleave Family album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Unidentified Man 2004-315-03-p38-p38

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Unidentified Man

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park.(For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description: CDV of a man's bust in an oval frame. He has mustache and is wearing a suit with a tie.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size: carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: George Ross’ stamp

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2004-315-03-p38-p38

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Unidentified Woman 1979-425-01-p39-p27

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Unidentified Woman

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park.(For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description: CDV of a woman's bust in an oval frame. Her curly hair is pulled back and she is wearing a buttoned dress with a large collar.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: George Ross’ stamp

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1979-425-01-p39-p27

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Unidentified Woman 2004-315-03-p31-p31

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Unidentified Woman

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other 19th century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived, photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he became an invalid in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description: CDV of a woman's bust in an oval frame. Her hair is secured with a bow, and is wearing a corseted dress with a scarf.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, Back: George Ross’ stamp

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2004-315-03-p31-p31

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Church, Claude Leslie (1886-1938)

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Claude Leslie Church

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Claude Leslie Church

Description: CDV of an infant sitting on a blanket covered studio prop wearing a velvet gown with a bib.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography: add, augment

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: George Ross’ stamp

Date: approximately 1886 

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1979-425-01-p7-p3

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

 

Church, Unidentified (Girl) 1979-425-01-p29-p20

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Unidentified Girl, c. 1862-1893

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified Girl (Church Family)

Description: CDV of a young girl sitting in a fringe studio chair wearing a dress with plaid detailing, pearls, and her hair done in sausage curls.

Biographical Note: add, augment

Family Affiliation: It is of note that this sitter’s portrait came from the Church family album.

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, Obverse: (identify group or individual, gender(s); identify pose, furniture & props; describe composition, background, added color…)

Description, Reverse: George Ross’ stamp

Date: c. 1862-1893

Condition: (note tears, foxing, fading)

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1979-425-01-p29-p20, Church family album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Church, Cynthia Jane Fleming (1833-1928)

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of “Mother c.” presumed to be Cynthia Jane Fleming Church

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Cynthia Jane Fleming Church

Description: CDV of a woman's bust in an oval frame. Her hair is pulled back and secured with a bow, and she is wearing a dress with a large white collar and brooch.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: George Ross’ stamp

Date: early 1870s

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1979-425-01-p9-p5

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Church, Guy Raymond (1880-1938)

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Guy Raymond Church

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Guy Raymond Church

Description: CDV of a toddler sitting on a fringe studio chair wearing a buttoned dress with a lacy collar

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, size N/A

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: George Ross’ stamp

Date: approximately 1883

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1979-425-01-p8-p4

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Freeman, George Adelbert (1852-1930)

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of George Adelbert Freeman

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: George Adelbert Freeman (as identified in a Church family and friends portrait album donated to the Petaluma Historical Library & Museum)

Description: In this head-and-shoulder portrait, George Adelbert Freeman appears as a young man with a chevron style mustache and side-parted hair which has been carefully oiled and combed. He wears a fashionably large-lapeled jacket and matching vest under which is a white shirt with a wide-spread collar. Down the front of his shirt are horizontal pleats on both sides of its front buttons, and at his throat is an unusual, fan-shape, light-colored, neck ornament with an round object at its base.

Biographical Note: The Petaluma Weekly Argus reported on November 7, 1867 that George Freeman and Jordan Peters were “held to answer” for fighting at the Resort Saloon over a game of cards. It was reported that Freeman was not hurt, but Peters’ thumb and ear were wounded. The Petaluma Weekly Argus also reported in 1867 that George Freeman’s horse “Blazing Star” was awarded the prize for “best horse for all work” at the spring horse show in Tomales. On October 3 of 1883, the Petaluma Courier reported, “James, Henry and George Freeman, sons of M. [sic] D. Freeman, and Herman Church, all of Tomales, have gone to San Luis Obispo to purchase land. I am sorry old Sonoma cannot keep them here, for these young farmers would be a credit to the county.” It was reported by a descendant that George Freeman and his brother, Emil Royce Freeman (1851-1933), eventually became dairy farmers in the Morro Bay Area.

Family Affiliation: George Adelbert Freeman was the second son of early Sonoma County pioneers, William Darius Freeman (1827-1907) and Mary Halstead Freeman (1833-1913). William and Mary settled in Tomales township, where they raised at least eleven children and were buried in the Tomales Presbyterian Cemetery. George’s first wife was Sara Harriett Cass Freeman (1854-1896). According to the Petaluma Weekly Argus, he divorced her in 1885 on the grounds of desertion and was awarded custody of their five minor children. It was reported by a descendant of George’s that Sara was the daughter of Captain James Cass, the founder of Cayucos, California. George later married Emma Perrins Freeman (1862-1943) with whom he had two additional children, and both he and Emma were buried in Palo Alto, California. It is of note that this portrait remains, as donated to the Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, in the Church Family Album.

Bibliography:


THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front: This carte de visite portrait is framed within a vertical oval.

Description, back: In the center of the back of this card between two elegant flourishes is George Ross’ imprint stating that his studio is on Main Street in Petaluma, “immediately opposite the American Hotel.”.

Date: 1872-1882

Condition: This carte de visit is soiled with overall foxing on both sides. On the front there are two small, round, black dots, one at the center top and the other at the center bottom. It appears that a thin sliver of the top edge has been cut off.

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1979-425-01-p34-p22, Church Family Album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Rae, Ollie Church (1870-1905)(1 of 3)

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Ollie Church Rae

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Ollie Church Rae

Description: CDV of a woman's bust in an oval frame. Her hair is pulled back and there is a large chain around her neck.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size: carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: George Ross' stamp

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1979-425-01-p14-p10

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Unidentified Woman 1992-IDI-07-p14-p27

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified Woman

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unknown

Description: CDV of a woman sitting, wearing a hoop skirt.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: George Ross’ stamp

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1992-IDI-07-p14-p27

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Jacobi, Jennie 1992-IDI-07-p22-p39

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Jennie Jacobi

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Jennie Jacobi

Description: CDV of a woman's bust in an oval frame. She has a braided up do with long, hanging curls. Her collar is large and ruffled.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size: carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: George Ross’ stamp

Date: circa 1862-1893

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1992-IDI-07-p22-p39

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Unidentified Man 1992-IDI-07-p14-p24

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified Man

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park.(For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description: CDV of a man standing next to a studio prop column.  He is wearing a suit with white pants.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size: carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: George Ross’ stamp

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1992-IDI-07-p14-p24

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Unidentified, Delbert 1979-425-01-p28-p19

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Delbert

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Delbert (Unidentified last name)

Description: CDV of a young boy sitting in a fringe studio chair with combed hair wearing a suit.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation: It is of note that this unidentified sitter’s portrait is from the Church family album.

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: George Ross’ stamp

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1979-425-01-p28-p19, Church family album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Crippen, Edwina C. (1855 -1939)

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of (Mary) Eltha Crippen Nay Eno & Edwina C. Crippen

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTERS:

Names: (Mary) Eltha Crippen Nay Eno & Edwina C. Crippen. When this portrait was taken, Eltha would have been known by her maiden name, Eltha Crippen. Edwina Crippen never married.

Description: This double portrait depicting the Crippen sisters is masterful. The older sister, Edwina, is seated on a one-armed studio chair while her sister, Eltha, six years her junior, stands next to her. With an elegant, confident posture and a self-possessed gaze, Edwina looks directly at the viewer while Eltha glances to the left with an air of apprehension. With a slightly submissive posture, Eltha leans towards Edwina and, with a childlike gesture, places her hand on her sister’s shoulder. Edwina wears a full-length, striped, waisted dress with a hem of six wide ruffles and full-length sleeves that terminate in a border of white lace. A black ribbon defines the yoke of her dress, and a matching ribbon has been tied under her white lace collar. Eltha wears a cuirass bodice over a calf-length skirt. Her short skirt and boots were the apparel of a girl; adult woman at this time wore their skirts full-length. Both sisters wear a thin black choker and dangling earrings. Their shoulder-length hair is curled and restrained with a ribbon headband.

Biographical Note: Edwina was born in Michigan in 1855 and died in Petaluma on January 11, 1939. She was buried in the Chapel of the Chimes Cemetery and Mausoleum in Santa Rosa. Edwina was a member of the Petaluma Baptist Church. She and her sister, Eltha, lived together for many years in their family home at 305 Liberty Street. The sisters appear to have been very adventurous; they often traveled long distances together by car when it was unusual for ladies to do so. Their trips were often mentioned in the Petaluma newspapers. According to US Federal Censuses, Edwina identified her occupation as a “laborer” in the box factory industry (1910), a “speiner” [sic] in the silk mill industry (1920), and a silk “shinner” [sic] in her own residence (1930).

Family Affiliation: Edwina’s parents were Petaluma pioneers, Perry W. Crippen (1823-1888) and Harriet Amelia Bump Crippen (1833-1924). She had two older brothers, Everton J. Crippen (1849-1922) and Marvin A. Crippen (1854-1910); a younger brother, Commodore Perry Crippen (1859-1906); and an younger sister, (Mary) Altha Crippen Nay Eno(1861-1943).

Bibliography:https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/221184405/edwina-crippen ; Petaluma Daily Morning Courier: Sept. 11, 1908, p.1; December 30, 1911, p.7; Sept. 24, 1922, p. 4; Sept. 30, 1925, p. 1; October 8, 1926, p. 5; Petaluma Argus-Courier, June 25, 1925, p. 6; Nov. 24, 1931, p. 8; Nov. 23, 1932, p. 6; Dec. 26, 1936, p. 3; May 28, 1938, p. 2; January 12, 1939, p. 4; January 12, 1939, p. 12; January 13, 1939, p.5.


THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front: The only background detail in this carte de visite is a horizontal strip of wall molding.

Description, back: George Ross’ imprint is on the center of the back of this carte de visite.

Date: 1870-1875

Condition: The portrait is slightly soiled throughout, and the top edge of the card has been trimmed.

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1979-425-01-p33-p21, Church Family & Friends Album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Lodge, Martha 1992-IDI-07-p4-p6

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Martha Lodge

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Martha Lodge

Description: CDV of a woman’s bust in an oval frame. Her hair is partially done in sausage curls, and she is wearing a dress with a large lace collar

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size: carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: George Ross’ stamp

Date: circa 1862-1893

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1992-IDI-07-p4-p6

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Noble, Harriet 1992-IDI-07-p5-p8

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Harriet, Matilda & Robert Noble

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTERS:

Names: Harriet, Matilda & Robert Noble

Description: CDV of a grandmother sitting and her grandchildren standing next to her in clothes characteristic of the 1860s.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size: carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: “Grandmother Harriet Noble, Matilda Noble, Robert Noble”; George Ross’ stamp

Date: circa 1862-1893

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1992-IDI-07-p5-p8

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Noble, Matilda 1992-IDI-07-p5-p8

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Harriet, Matilda & Robert Noble

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTERS:

Names: Harriet, Matilda & Robert Noble

Description: CDV of a grandmother sitting and her grandchildren standing next to her in clothes characteristic of the 1860s.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size: carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: “Grandmother Harriet Noble, Matilda Noble, Robert Noble”; George Ross’ stamp

Date: circa 1862-1893

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1992-IDI-07-p5-p8

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Church, Clara Elsie (1867-1964)(1 of 2)

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Clara elsie Church

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Clara Elsie Church

Description: CDV of a woman's bust in an oval frame.  Her hair is pulled back and there is a large chain around her neck.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, size N/A

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, Front: (identify group or individual, gender(s); identify pose, furniture & props; describe composition, background, added color…)

Description, Back: George Ross’ stamp

Date: undated

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1979-425-01-p13-p9

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Church, Lorin Jasper (1889-1918) (1 of 3)

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Lorin Jasper Church

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)


THE SITTER:

Name: Lorin Jasper Church

Description: In this carte de visite portrait, Lorin Jasper Church appears to be between one and two years old. He sits atop a heavy, draped textile decorated with a floral design. He looks up and smiles contentedly, holding what appears to be a rattle in his lap. He wears a scallop-hemmed white dress and dark leather boots.

Biographical Note: Lorin Jasper Church was born and raised at the Church family ranch in Two Rock. In 1899, he was listed as a student at Two Rock’s Walker School, and his teacher was listed as Miss Mabel Celeste Black (1874-1966), the future Mabel Black-Putnam and mother-in-law of Petaluma mayor, Helen DuMont Putnam (1909-1984). In 1906, it was reported that Lorin was the Sergeant at Arms of his senior class at Petaluma High School. A member of the Enterprise Yearbook staff, he graduated in May 1907 and soon after enrolled at the University of California. On June 4, 1911, he married Helen M. Storer of Oakland, and initially, they settled in Alaska. By 1915, the couple had returned to Petaluma, and on August 10, 1917, Lorin enlisted in the United States Marine Corps to fight in World War I. He was stationed at Quantico, Virginia, and received distinction as a sharpshooter. In July 1918, he was reported to be in France, working back of the lines as a surveyor. On August 10, 1918, the Petaluma Daily Morning Courier reported that he had been killed on the battlefield in France on June 13th. He was the second Petaluma boy to die in World War I. He was buried at the Aisne-Marne American Cemetery and Memorial, Belleau, Departement de L’Aisne, Picardie, France.

Family Affiliation: Lorin Jasper Church was the second son of Walter A. Church and Minnie B. Warders Church of Two Rock Valley. He was the brother of Linnie Church Mack, Rena Church Weyler, Flora Church, Ralph Church, Amy Church, Earl Church, and Roy Church. He was the husband of Helen M. Storer. Click here to be directed to a list of the other portraits of Church family members in this archive.

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: On the back of this carte de visite is a late version of George Ross’ imprint.

Date: 1889 or 1890

Condition: The front and back of this carte de visite are slightly soiled.

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1979-425-01-p6-p2

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Church, Philip 1979-425-03-p28-p18

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Philip Church

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Philip Church

Description: CDV of a man's bust in an oval frame. He has a mustache and is wearing a suit.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, size N/A

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: George Ross’ stamp

Date: circa 1862-1893

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1979-425-03-p28-p18

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

 

Cady, Emma S. Elder Coggeshall (1857-1933) (4 of 6)

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Emma S. Elder and Ida Brown

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTERS:

Names: Emma S. Elder Coggeshall Cody and Ida Brown Coflin. This portrait was taken before either of these two young women had married, when they would have been known by their maiden names, Emma S. Elder and Ida Brown.

Description: The two, young women portrayed in this carte de visite were most probably close friends. Emma Elder stands confidently on the viewer’s left, resting her hands authoritatively on the right shoulder of her companion. Elder gazes directly at the viewer, her full face open to the camera. Brown sits calmly on the right; her gaze lowered and to the right. The women are dressed almost identically. Both wear heavy, dark, complex dresses typical of the first half of the 1870s. Both dresses have a full, flounced and ruffled, underskirt and a shorter, top skirt which is gathered at the sides creating a type of front apron. Both women have wide, large cuffs trimmed in white lace, and high, white, lace, collars around which are draped fringed neck scarves. Elder’s dress also includes a full bustle.

Biographical Note: As a student and young women Emma S. Elder was mentioned often in Petaluma papers’ society section. She received her certificate to teach in the Petaluma Public School system in 1876. In 1919, she was living at A and Sixth Streets.

Family Affiliation: Emma S. Elder Coggeshall Cady was the daughter of Petaluma pioneers, William Elder (1812-1876) and Sarah C. Elder (1819-1891). The Elders were a prominent family in Petaluma. William Elder, born in Scotland, was Petaluma’s first mayor, the first chairman of the Petaluma Board of Trustees, and one of the founders of the Petaluma Congregational church. William Elder also founded, with George Harris, the general merchandising store in Petaluma, Harris & Elder. In 1877, Emma married a man named Coggeshall and with him had three children. Their daughter, Catherine Coggeshall (1884-1982), married Malcolm Lyman Byce (1890-1919) in 1912. Emma later named a man whose surname was Cady.

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front: Double portrait of two young women in front of a backdrop depicting a grand architectural interior.

Description, back: Handwritten in black ink cursive: Miss Ida Brown Emma Elder April 23rd 1874 Petaluma Cal. On the center back is the photographer’s imprint which reads: “From George Ross’ Art and Photograph Gallery, Main St., Petaluma, Cal. (Immediately opposite the American Hotel.)”.

Date: April 23rd, 1874

Condition: There is extensive foxing and small stains throughout, and the bottom corners have been clipped.

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1984-289-05

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Farquar, Frederick Stuart (1879-1962) (1 of 3)

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Frederick Stuart Farquar

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Frederick Stuart Farquar

Description: Ten-month-old Frederick Stuart Farquar is portrayed here seated on a fabric-covered studio prop. The curly-haired baby sits holding the hem of his white lace dress. He wears a white lace bib, white stockings and dark leather boots.

Biographical Note: Frederick Stuart Farquar was raised in Petaluma and worked the family ranch in “Penn’s Grove”. Like his brother, Ben, he served in the Spanish-American War. Frederick was a member of Company K, in the Fourteenth Regiment. Ben was a member of Company C in the Eighth Regiment. Frederick lived in Petaluma at 729 Keokuk Street and later at 321 Keller Street, and he worked for the Petaluma and Santa Rosa Electric Railroad. Frederick and his wife, Hester R. Herbert, were both buried in Cypress Hill Memorial Park in Petaluma.

Family Affiliation: Frederick Stuart Farquar was the son of Petaluma pioneers, Mary Irene Clark Farquar (1858-1941), and Calvin Stuart Farquar (1848-1908). Frederick married Hester R. Herbert (1885-1945) of Bloomfield in 1903, and they had two sons, Frederick Stuart Farquar Junior (1906-1970), William Harold Farquar (1907-1956). They also had a daughter, Marion Hester Farquar (1910 - October 1911), who died at the age of 11 due to an accident. There are many additional portraits of Farquar family members in this archive.

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  cabinet card

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front: The portrait is set within an arched format, and George Ross’ imprint, in a particularly elegant font, appears along the bottom edge.

Description, back: Handwritten in cursive in pencil is, “Fred S. Farquar 10 months”, “Born 12/23/1879”, “Died 11/30/1962”

Date: Fall 1880. In this archive are two portraits also taken by George Ross of Frederick Stuart Farquar’s mother, Mary Irene Clark Farquar. All three portraits have the same elegant George Ross imprint along the front bottom edge, and may have been taken on the same day.

Condition: Both sides of this card are heavily soiled, and a large stain appears on the card along the center of the front, bottom edge.

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1978-80-44-p19-p37, Farquar Family Album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Harris, Jennie Lodge (also see Lodge) 1992-IDI-07-p5-p9

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Jennie Lodge Harris

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Jennie Lodge Harris

Description: CDV of a woman’s bust in an oval frame. She has sausage curls and a flower in her hair and is wearing a dress with lacy bodice and collar.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: “Jennie Lodge Jennie Harris”; George Ross’ stamp

Date: circa 1862-1893

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1992-IDI-07-p5-p9

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Lewis, Mrs. 2005-439-04

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Mrs. Lewis

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Mrs. Lewis

Description: Cabinet card of Mrs. Lewis' bust in an oval frame. Lewis appears to wearing a black dress with a white collar. Lewis is the mother of May Lewis.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  cabinet card, approximately 10.75 x 16.25 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date: circa 1862-1893

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2005-439-04

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Noble, Robert 1992-IDI-07-p5-p8

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Harriet, Matilda & Robert Noble

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTERS:

Names: Harriet, Matilda & Robert Noble

Description: CDV of a grandmother sitting and her grandchildren standing next to her in clothes characteristic of the 1860s.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size: carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: “Grandmother Harriet Noble, Matilda Noble, Robert Noble”; George Ross’ stamp

Date: circa 1862-1893

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1992-IDI-07-p5-p8

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Waugh, Lorenzo 1808-1900

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Lorenzo Waugh

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other 19th century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived, photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he became an invalid in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Lorenzo Waugh

Description: Cabinet card of Lorenzo Waugh. Waugh is sitting on a fringed studio chair. He is wearing a three-piece suit, a bow tie, and with a chain hanging from his vest. He has a beard and is slightly balding. The fringed chair and Waugh's fashions date this photo to the late 1870s.

Biographical Note: Lorenzo Waugh was born on August 28, 1808, near Greenbrier River, West Virginia, in what is now Pocahontas County. In his youth he was acquainted with Daniel Webster, John Quincy Adams, and other famous people from the early history of our country. At age 16, he was a teacher in Harrison County. In 1831, he entered the Methodist ministry and taught school in Mason County. Waugh married Clarissa Jane Edsel in 1841. When the health for both of them failed, they traveled over the plains in 1852 to California in an ox teams. Upon their arrival, Waugh experienced some ownership problems with the land upon which he settled. Eventually, General Vallejo presented him with 320 acres of land near Petaluma. (1515 Old Adobe Road) Vallejo has been quoted as saying, “Land is plenty. and it for us, and I have plenty of it yet.” Since no church had been built, their new home was made available for preaching, social and religious gatherings for all in the region.

Father Waugh headed the Petaluma temperance movement for many years. He helped organize the California Youth Association in 1859, and urged people to “shun the degrading, ruinous habits of using tobacco and intoxicating drink.” He built the first Methodist Church in Petaluma. He also published a 32-chapter autobiography, 1883, which had five printings

Rev. Waugh died on September 5, 1900

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography: http://bill-hammerman.blogs.petaluma360.com/13175/lest-we-forget-rev-lorenzo-waugh/ 

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  cabinet card, approximately 10.75 x 16.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: Handwritten in cursive in pencil along the bottom left edge is, “Lorenzo Waugh”.

Date: circa 1875 - 1880  

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1978-80-05

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

 

Whitney, Albion Paris (1825-1884)

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Albion Paris Whitney

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other 19th century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived, photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he became an invalid in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Albion Paris Whitney

Description: In this head-and-shoulders portrait, Albion Paris Whitney appears as a man entering middle age. His beard and mustache are greying and pronounced wrinkles appear at the side of his eyes. He wears a heavy jacket, vest, collared white shirt and a dark bow tie.

Biographical Note: Albion was a hard-working, driven pioneer. Even his obituary stated, “…mind and body, when overworked often react upon themselves, and present the sad spectacle of a star falling from the sky before it has attained its zenith.” (Petaluma Weekly Argus, March 29, 1884). As a young man, Albion sought his fortune journeying further and further west. He eventually took the trail to California from Colorado and, in 1860, settled in Petaluma. He started in the grocery business and expanded into freighting grain and produce. He quickly became a wealthy man and served in many civic capacities. He was chairman of the Petaluma City Board of Trustees, a member of the Petaluma School Board, and President of the Sonoma and Marin District Agricultural Society. In 1874, he turned to politics and was elected on the Republican ticket to the California State Senate. Albion was also an active member of Petaluma’s Masonic Lodge.

Family Affiliation: Albion Paris Whitney was the husband of Susan Durgin Eastman Whitney (1832-1917), and the son of Olive Parlin Whitney (1791-1874). He and Susan had seven children: Cleora Melissa Whitney Hewlett, Nancy Jane “Jenny” Whitney Morrow, Arthur Leslie Whitney, Leona Merrill Whitney, Marcella “Ella” Whitney Wheaton, Albion Harvey Whitney and Clara Whitney Spears.

Bibliography: 

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size: cabinet card, approximately 10.75 x 16.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front: George Ross’ imprint appears on the front of this cabinet card in elegant print. On the left is simply, “George Ross,”, and on the right is, “Petaluma, Cal.”. Significantly, this photographic portrait served as the basis for the oil painting portrait of Albion created by C. W. Bowles in 1881. This painting, along with its companion piece depicting Albion’s wife, Susan Durgin Eastman Whitney, was donated by a descendant of the Whitney family and hangs in the Pioneer Parlor of the Petaluma Historical Library & Museum. Albion Paris Whitney PDF

Description, back: Handwritten along the top edge of the card in cursive in pencil is, “A P Whitney?”.

Date: late 1870s to 1881

Condition: Both sides of this card are heavily soiled.

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1981-835-34

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Unidentified Boy 1994-633-46

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified Boy

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unknown

Description: Carte de visite of an unidentified family (Man-standing, woman-sitting, infant-held up by mother). The man has on a three-piece suit with a bow tie, and has facial hair. The woman's hair is pulled back, and she appears to be wearing a hoop skirt. The woman's skirt, and the two line border with different widths dates the photo between 1864-1869.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date: circa 1864-1869

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1994-633-46

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Unidentified Couple 1978-666-32

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Unidentified Couple

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTERS:

Names: Unknown

Description: Cabinet card of an unidentified couple in an semi-oval frame. The man sits in a fringe studio chair wearing a three-piece suit with only the tope button fastened, and a bow tie. The woman stands next to him with one hand on the man's shoulders. She is wearing a corseted, bustled dress with a dark jackets. She has an elaborate white lace collar adorned with flowers and a chain hanging from her jacket. The couple's fashions date this photo to the 1880s.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  cabinet card, approximately 10.75 x 16.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: The back of this cabinet card is blank or contains only an accession number.

Date: circa 1880s  

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1978-666-32

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

“Standing Man With Seated Woman and Child”

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of “Standing man with seated woman and Child”

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park.(For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTERS:

Names: Unidentified

Description: This carte de visite appears to be a family portrait depicting father, mother and young daughter. The man stands on the left dressed in a light-colored three-piece suit and a white shirt with a bowtie. The woman sits on the right attired in a dark dress with a hoop skirt. The child sits in the center. She is blond and wears a calf-length dress with vertical trim on the bodice and a bold border on the hem of her skirt.

It is possible that both the man and the child are deceased. That this may be a postmortem photograph is supported by the man’s and child’s limp appearance. The man’s body is supported by a wooden prop the feet of which can be seen on either side of his shoes. The woman leans to her right placing her face next to the child’s while supporting the child with her shoulder and right arm. The eyes of both the man and child appear dull and empty while the expression of the woman appears forlorn and resigned.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:  

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front: This three person portrait is unusual and stark. With the exception of the floor molding, it contains no background. With the exception of the textile draped table upon which the child sits, there are no props and no floor covering.

Description, back: In the center back of this carte de visite is an early version of George Ross’ imprint.

Date: This carte de visite post probably dates between 1862 and the 1870s.

Condition: This carte de visite is heavily soiled with a large black stain in the upper right. All four corners have been slightly clipped.

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2005-115-48

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Unidentified Girl 1979-425-01-LP28

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Unidentified Girl

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park.(For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description: CDV of a young girl's bust. Her hair is done in sausage curls and she is wearing a plaid dress with a large collar

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: George Ross’ stamp; “January 7, 1873 Remember me”

Date: January 7, 1873

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1979-425-01-LP28

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Unidentified Girl 1994-633-40

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified girl

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park.(For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description: Carte de visite of a young unidentified girl toddler in an oval frame. The girl has on a white dress with a plaid bow tied around her waist, and is sitting on a studio prop blanket. There is a plaid bow in her hair as well. The rounded edges, oval frame, and the photographer's simple artwork date this photo to the early 1870's.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography: Information on the photo's date and format gathered from Gary W. Clark's "19th Century Card Photos Kwik Guide" pgs. 19, 20, 47

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date: 1870-1873

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1994-633-40

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Unidentified Infant 1994-633-39

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified infant

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description: Carte de visite of a young unidentified infant in an oval frame. The infant has on a white dress, possibly a communion gown, and is sitting on a studio prop blanket. The blanket reaches out of frame, possibly camouflaging a parent's arm. The rounded edges, oval frame, and the photographer's simple artwork date this photo to the early 1870's.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography: Information on the photo's date and format gathered from Gary W. Clark's "19th Century Card Photos Kwik Guide" pgs. 19, 20, 47

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date: 1870s or 1880s

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1991-633-39

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Unidentified Infant 1994-633-41

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified Child

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park.(For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unknown

Description: Carte de visite of an unidentified toddler. The little girl has on a plaid, off the shoulder dress with a white scalloped petticoat peaking out. She is standing on a fringe studio chair. The rounded edges, fringe studio chair, and the photographer's simple artwork date this photo to the early 1870's.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography: 

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 10.25 x 6.25 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1994-633-41

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Unidentified Infant 1994-633-44

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified Infant

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description: Carte de visite of an unidentified infant. The baby has on a white gown, possibly a communion gown, with striped socks and leather boots. The infant is sitting on a studio prop with blanket, and an adult's arm can be seen in frame holding the infant upright. The rounded edges and the photographer's simple artwork date this photo to the early 1870s.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography: 

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 10.25 x 6.25 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1994-633-44

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

Unidentified Infant 1994-633-47

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified InfanT

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description: Carte de visite of an unidentified infant. The baby has on a white gown, possibly a communion gown, and is covered with a white blanket. They are laying blanket covered studio prop. The rounded edges and the photographer's simple artwork date this photo to the early 1870's.

Biographical Note:

Unidentified Infant 2005-115-47 side b

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography: 

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 10.25 x 6.25 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2005-115-47

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

“Three Unidentified Sleeping or Dead Infants”

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of “three Unidentified sleeping or dead Infants”

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTERS:

Names: These three babies may be the triplets born in Petaluma on April 23, 1877 to Mr. and Mrs. S. Monroe Hubbard.

Description: This carte de visite depicts three infants who are either sleeping or dead. The babies are all newborns and have been dressed in white. Their bodies have been laid next to each other and all their faces turn in the same direction. This makes the portrait’s composition appear to have been purposefully arranged supporting the conclusion that this is a postmortem photograph. According to the Petaluma papers, the Hubbard triplets were born on April 23, 1877 and the last of the three babies to die was Mabel Hubbard on June 21, 1877.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography: Petaluma Courier, April 26, 1877, p.3. PetalumaWeekly Argus, April 27, 1877, p.8; May 18, 1877 p.4; May 25, 1877, p.8; July 6, 1877, p.8.

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front: This portrait of three infants is contained within an oval frame.

Description, back: On the center back of this carte de visite is an early version of George Ross’ imprint.

Date: This appears to be one of George Ross’ early photographs and most probably dates to between 1862 and the 1870s.

Condition: The photograph is faded, and the card is soiled on both front and back.

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1979-425-03-p27-p15, from Church Family Album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Unidentified Man 1994-633-50

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified Man

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description: Carte de visite of an unidentified man in an oval frame with a single line border. The man's hairline is receeding and he has a long goatee. He has on three piece suit with peak lapels and a bow tie. Based on the oval frame, single line border, and the man's fashion this photo is from the early 1870's.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1994-633-50 

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Unidentified Man 1994-633-51

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified Man

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unknown

Description: Carte de visite of an unidentified man's bust. The man is wearing a three-piece suit with notch lapels, a tie, and an upturned collar. The lack of border on the card, and Ross' duration in Petaluma dates the photo between 1863-1870.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1994-633-51

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional

Farquar, Mary Irene Clark (1858-1941)(2 of 5)

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Mary Irene Clark Farquar

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Mary Irene Clark Farquar

Description: Mary Irene Clark Farquar is fashionably dressed in this head-and-shoulders portrait. She wears a dark, satin jacket with shiny, metal, front buttons, and around her neck is a white scarf made of many layers of tassels. A large pendant earring hangs from her left lobe, and a bar pin appears directly below her chin. The crowning glory of her ensemble is a glamorous, ostrich feather hat. The feathers are dark with the exception of a white plume at the center.

Biographical Note: Mary Irene Clark Farquar was born in Petaluma on the “Clark Ranch” owned by her pioneer parents. She was raised in Petaluma and then attended Mills Seminary (later known as Mills College) between 1874 and 1875. After the death of her first husband in 1908, Mary purchased a ranch in Sonoma Valley at Madrone Station where she lived with her widowed mother, Rachael Jane Murray Clark. In 1919, Mary married an Oakland real estate investor, L. M. Channel. According to their marriage announcement, they planned to live on Mary’s ranch. It appears Mary was never referred to as “Mrs. Channel”. Even after her second marriage, she continued to be referred to as “Mrs. Farquar” or “Mrs. Farquar Sr.” Even her funeral announcement and obituary refer to her as Mrs. Farquar. She was buried in the Farquar family plot in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. As it seems she never acknowledged the name “Channel”, this archive has filed her portraits under her last acknowledged name, Farquar.

Family Affiliation: Mary Irene Clark Farquar was a member of an early Petaluma pioneer family. Her father, Almer Clark (1829-1899), came to California by way of the Isthmus of Panama, and her mother, Rachael Jane Murray Clark (1838 - 1930), a native of Missouri, crossed the plains with her parents in 1848 or 1852. Almer and Rachael established the “Clark Ranch” on Petaluma Hill Road which served as a “Half-Way” house for the stage coaches traveling between Sacramento and Willits. In 1876, Mary married Calvin Stuart Farquar (1848-1908). Together they had five children: Frederick Stuart Farquar (1879-1962), Ben Harold Farquar (1881-1965), Thomas Allen Farquar (1891-1956), Helen Farquar (b. & d. dates to be determined) and Marion Irene Farquar (b. & d. dates to be determined). There are many additional portraits of Farquar family members in this archive.

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  cabinet card

Medium: gelatin or collodion photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front: George Ross’ imprint appears in an especially elegant font along the bottom edge.

Description, back: The back of this cabinet card is blank or contains only an accession number.

Date: It is quite probable that this portrait was taken in the fall of 1880. A baby portrait of Mary’s son, Frederick Stuart Farquar (1879-1962), also by George Ross is in this archive, and on its back side is written, “Fred. S. Farquar 10 months”, and “Born 12/23/1879 Died 11/30/1962”. It is logical to conclude that the mother took her baby to Ross’ studio and had both their portraits taken. Additionally, both portraits have the same elegant, George Ross imprint along the front bottom edge.

Condition: This cabinet card is soiled especially along its edges.

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1978-80-44-p17-p34, Farquar Family Album

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Unidentified Woman 1978-80-45-p36-p37

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified Woman

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park.(For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description: CDV of a woman's profile bust. She has short curly bangs and is wearing a Victorian-era dress with large sleeves.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: John Reed stamp over George Ross imprint

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1978-80-45-p36-p37

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Unidentified Woman 1978-80-39

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Unidentified Woman

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other nineteenth century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported that Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he developed a disability in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park.(For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unidentified

Description: Cabinet card of an unidentified woman. The woman is standing with her hand resting on a studio prop chair with a lace shawl draped on it. The woman is wearing a corseted, bustled dress. There is a chain hanging from her chest, and she has a large white collar, very characteristic of the 1880s.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  cabinet card, approximately 10.75 x 16.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back: The back is printed with the following: “Hints to Sitters and Visitors at Ross’ Photographic Gallery. Opposite the American Hotel, Main Street, Petaluma, Cal. July 19th, 1886, will be my Twenty-fourth year in Photo business in this place. I return many thanks to my friends and the general public for their liberal patronage and support. I am working all the new dry plate processes known to the art. “Come early in the day. Do not spend the day in shopping and, then, when you are worn out with fatigue, suddenly determine to be photographed. If you do, it is sure to be a failure. Do not object to the use of the head-rest. You cannot sit still without it. The mere act of pulsation is sufficient to cause a movement that spoils a photograph. You may wink as much as you please during the exposure, but take care to keep the eyes on one spot. Avoid all forced and unnatural expressions: ‘To thine ownself be true,’ an axiom applicable to photography, though Polonius knew nothing of the art. Do not think about the photograph during the exposure; try to call up a pleasant train of thought on a totally different subject. Do not interfere with the arrangement of the posse. It is true that not one photographer in then is an artist as well; but an intelligent sitter will soon discern whether the two are combined ­-- whether he is in the hands of an artist or a muff. If visitors are allowed in the studio during the sitting, they should also conform to the foregoing hint. They should not look at the sitter during the exposure, as nothing tends so much to put a person out of countenance, as being stared out of countenance. It is not judicious to be photographed in the height of fashion. The height of fashion will most probably be the height of absurdity in six months’ time. Considerable patience and tact are required in the visitor as well as the photographer in the portraits of little children. The most charming pictures are usually those in which, after having been kept amused by the parents or attendants up to the moment of exposure, they are then left ro be amused by the artist alone. By so doing increases attention, a renewed interest, and a happy expression are gained. Children should not be allowed to form an idea that to be photographed resembles a surgical operation. The same remark is not inapplicable to adults. - Photographic World.”

Date: 1886  

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1978-80-39

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.

 

Unidentified Woman 1999-X-08

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Unidentified Woman

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832, in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike other nineteenth-century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855 and began his career as a photographer in 1862. As documented by the various imprints of his carte de visites and cabinet cards, Ross moved his studio within the city several times. Although not in good health at the end of his life, Ross continued to work as a photographer in Petaluma until at least 1892. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work is of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unknown

Description:

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:  

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  cabinet card

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date: June 4, 1892

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 1999-X-08

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Unidentified Woman 2001-178-01

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of Unidentified Woman

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other 19th century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived, photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he became an invalid in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unknown

Description: Carte de visite of an elderly unidentified woman in an oval frame with a single line border. The woman's hair is hidden underneath a black lace bonnet that is tied under her chin, and she is wearing glasses. She has on what appears to be a corseted dress with a large white lace collar. Based on the oval frame, single line border, and the woman's fashion this photo is from the early 1870's.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography: Information on the photo's date and format gathered from Gary W. Clark's "19th Century Card Photos Kwik Guide," pg. 26, 47

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2001-178-01

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use. 

Unidentified Woman 2005-115-49

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George Ross’ Portrait Photograph of an Unidentified Woman

THE PHOTOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO:

GEORGE COLVAINE ROSS was born February 12, 1832 in Edinburgh, Scotland and died in 1893 at the age of 60 in Petaluma, California. Unlike the other 19th century Petaluma photographers, Ross lived and worked in Petaluma for many years. He arrived in Petaluma in 1855, and in 1862 he began his profession as a photographer, moving his studio within the city several times as noted on his various carte de visite and cabinet card imprints. In 1869 he was also part of a short-lived, photographic studio partnership with Elon D. Ormsby on Main Street in Petaluma. It was reported Ross stopped working as a photographer soon after he became an invalid in 1888. Ross was among the most prolific Petaluma portrait photographers, and his work was of exceptionally high quality. Ross was buried in Petaluma’s Cypress Hill Memorial Park. (For additional information on this photographer and to view all portraits by him in the collection, click on his name in blue above.)

THE SITTER:

Name: Unknown

Description: Carte de visite of a young unidentified woman standing. Her hair is parted down the middle and pulled back into sausage curls. She is wearing a dress with a hoop skirt, and one hand is resting on a studio prop chair. The woman's hoop skirt, and the two line border with different widths date this card between 1864-1869.

Biographical Note:

Family Affiliation:

Bibliography:

THE PHOTOGRAPH:

Format / Size:  carte de visite, approximately 6.25 x 10.5 cm

Medium: albumen photographic print mounted on cardstock

Description, front:

Description, back:

Date:

Condition:

Owner:  Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, 2005-115-49

Reproduction rights: The Petaluma Museum Association makes no assertions as to ownership of any original copyrights to the digitized images here reproduced.  These images are intended for personal or research use only. Any other kind of use, including, but not limited to commercial or scholarly publication in any medium or format, public exhibition, or use online or in a web site, may be subject to additional restrictions including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the Association. USERS ARE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying associated fees necessary for the proposed use.