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2864. (photo) Silver medal crew, Humboldt Bay Coast Guard Lifeboat Station c.1939. On June 23, 1939, Surfman Karl L. Carios on lookout duty spotted the yacht Rena [Reta] near the Humboldt Bar and saw she was in difficulty. He immediately alerted the officer in charge, Chief Boatswain’s mate Garner J. Churchill. Churchill, with a crew of four, headed the 36-foot motor lifeboat toward the yacht, which by 7:20 pm was swamped. As Chief Churchill brought his boat through the pounding surf, the lifeboat completely vanished beneath the breaking seas. The closer Churchill approached Rena, the more he was hampered by the debris breaking off the vessel and by the fact that he had to reduce his speed below steerage. In a feat of great seamanship, the Chief and his crew managed to safely remove the four people from Rena. Churchill was offered the Gold Life Saving Medal and his crew the Silver, but the Chief refused to accept any higher medal than his crew received and thus all received the Silver Medal, the second highest award for lifesaving. His son noted some time later that he took the Silver Life-Saving Medal because "he felt that he had done no more than his men." Churchill would come to be known as the “Joshua James of the Pacific Coast” – he and his crew having saved over 300 lives in his career. Clear close original b/w photo measures 5” x 7” and provides a great view of the crew and their 36-foot motor lifeboat on the station ramp. (F-). $64.

2852. (photo) Schooner Nancy Aground on Nantasket Beach, February 20, 1927. Rare close photo shows the five masted schooner aground as onlookers examine the vessel. The Nancy, a five masted schooner, was dragged anchor and was wrecked on Nantasket Beach during the storm of February 20, 1927. Built 1918 at Portland, OR., she was 259 ft long. The Nancy remained on Nantasket Beach for years and became a major tourist attraction. Until she was salvaged, dynamited and burned to the sand, thousands visited the scene. Eventually the hull was burned and the keel disappeared under the sand. Today only the keel remains - buried under the sand. Photo measures 3 ½” x 5 ½” on postcard paper (dated by manufacturer’s mark 1926-1940). Overall clean, only light wear, close view. (VG+). $48.

27393. (photo) Robbins Reef lighthouse, New York c.1950. Robbins Reef lighthouse is on  the West Side Main Channel in Upper New York Bay. In 1839, the first lighthouse to mark this navigational hazard was constructed: an octagonal stone tower, painted white, that stood atop a stone base. In 1883 this four-story, iron “sparkplug” tower was erected. The bottom story served as a kitchen and dining room, and was originally encircled by a partially enclosed porch. A pair of bedrooms was located on the second floor. To give the tower a distinctive marking, the top half was painted white and the bottom portion brown. The brown and white cylindrical lighthouse stands as monument to the lady who "kept the good light" for over 30 years. Her name was Kate Walker and the captains in the harbor affectionately refer to Robbin's Reef as "Kate's Light". Kate was respected by all for her courage and stamina. She could be seen rowing her children to school each day on Staten Island and is responsible for saving many a stranded boater. Unusually close, clear view measures 7 ½” x 9 ½”. (VG). $42.

  

2878. (lot 6 photos) U. S. Coast Guard Station, Michigan City, Indiana c.1920-30. Excellent lot of early Coast Guard views of the crew at the Michigan City, Indiana lifeboat station. Views are close and clear and show the crew drilling or posing including resuscitation drill, close order marching, fire drill with hose cart and playing stream, posing with beach apparatus cart, wreckage of collapsed flag signal mast, officers posing. Views measure 3 ¾” x 6” and are b/w. Great set. (VG+). $84.

28118 [photograph] U. S. Public Health Service c.1915-1925. Original portrait photograph of a member of the U. S. Public Health Service in uniform. This rare posed portrait photograph shows the young officer, proudly posing with collar insignia easily visible. Photo measures 4 ½” x 6 ½”. Clean, clear, nice view. (VG+). $24.

28106. (photo) Barcelona (Portland Harbor) Lighthouse, Lake Erie c.1910. In 1828 Congress appropriated five thousand dollars to construct a lighthouse at Portland Harbor on Lake Erie, which had just be designated an official port of entry. It would later have its name changed to Barcelona. A lot was purchased and the following month, a $2,700 contract for constructing the lighthouse and a keeper’s dwelling was awarded. The contract specifically called for “11 patent lamps; eleven 14” reflectors and 2 spare lamps; double tin oil butts for 500 gals. of oil; 1 lantern canister and iron trivet, etc.” Using native, rough split, fieldstone, Campbell constructed a 40-foot conical tower with a base diameter of twenty-two feet. In 1831, the lighthouse was fitted with natural gas, transported via hollowed-out wooden pipes three quarters of a mile to the Barcelona station. .” It was also stated that when viewed from Lake Erie at night, it looked as if the whole tower were “one complete, constant and unwavering blaze.” Early mounted view measures 3 ½” x 4 ½” on 5 ½” x 6 ½” card mount. Photo is clear and close, light soiling and wear, on period mount. Mount with some edge wear. Would look fine matted. (VG-). $22.

28106. (photo) Heron Neck Lighthouse, Green’s Island, Maine c.1890. Heron Neck Light Station was established in 1854 on rocky Green's Island, at the east entrance to Hurricane Sound, to help guide mariners heading for Vinalhaven's Carver's Harbor. The 30-foot brick tower was attached to the keeper's house, also constructed of brick. A fifth-order Fresnel lens displayed a fixed red light 92 feet above the sea. Early mounted view measures 3 ½” x 4 ½” on 4 ¼” x 5 ¼” card mount, and shows the station high atop the rocky cliff. . Photo is clear and close, light soiling and foxing, damage to one corner, on period mount. Mount with some edge wear. Would look good matted. (G+). $48.

28115. (photo) Richard E Byrd Fourth Antarctic Expedition 1946 – 1947. Large 8” x 10” b/w photo shows two of the many vessels for Admiral Byrd’s fourth expedition moored at Wellington, New Zealand. Included in the photo are the Navy icebreaker U. S. S. Mount Olympus (his flagship) and Coast Guard Cutter Northwind at the pier. By the late 1930's, officials of the United States government were becoming aware of the fact that interest in the Antarctic regions was gaining popular momentum among its citizenry due to the successful expeditions of Byrd. President Franklin D. Roosevelt took an active role in creating the United States Antarctic Service as he pushed for additional Antarctic expeditions. The fourth culminating expedition, Operation Highjump, was the largest Antarctic expedition to date. The total number of personnel involved was over 4,000. The armada arrived in the Ross Sea on December 31, 1946 and made aerial explorations of an area half the size of the United States, recording ten new mountain ranges. Byrd made his second flight over the South Pole before returning to the U.S. (VG). $18.

28116. (photo) U. S. Coast Guard Cutter Galatea WPC-108. Large 8” x 10” b/w photo shows crew chipping ice on the deck on this Thetis Class Patrol Boat. Labeled on back: “January 1945  U. S. S. Galatea U. S. C. G. at U.S. Naval Frontier Base Tompkinsville, Staten Island. Returned from North Atlantic Patrol.” (VG-). $12.

4122e. [stereoview] Life-Saving Corps (Service) With Boats, Ready for Action, Long Island Beach . #11230. c.1907 by Underwood & Underwood Superb clear b/w image featuring the Life-Saving Service preparing to launch the surfboat on the Long Island shore. On the back is a lengthy description of the work of the Life-Saving Service. Clean, crisp close clear view. (F-). $48.

6283p. (stereoview) Some Operations of the Life-Saving Corps, Jamestown Exposition. #14219. c.1907 by Keystone View Company. Beautiful clear b/w image featuring the Life-Saving Service performing breeches buoy drill at the Jamestown Exposition. The crew of six are in the foreground pulling a seventh member from an offshore vessel. The pinstriped wheels of the beach apparatus cart are just visible in the foreground. On the back is a lengthy description of the work of the Life-Saving Service. Clean, crisp clear view. (F-). $22.

27466. (photo) U. S. Life Saving Service Station, Jackson Park, Chicago c.1900. In 1893 the World’s Columbian Exposition was held in Chicago to present the latest advancements in technology, architecture and American progress to the populace and to the world. As was the practice, the government exhibit included the latest advances in the Life Saving Service, Light-House Service and other agencies. The Exposition covered more than 600 acres, featuring nearly 200 new buildings of European architecture, canals and lagoons, and people and cultures from around the world. Over 27 million people (about half the U.S. population) attended the Exposition over the six months it was open. In fact, at this exhibit a complete life-saving station of a modified Quonochontaug design was constructed and manned for visitors to tour and view the latest advances in the field. Station crews performed tri-weekly surfboat drills which drew large crowds and became a highlight of the fair. After the exposition closed, this station would remain in service as the Jackson Park Life-Saving Station. View is exceptionally clear and detailed. Rare view is of the station as seen from the landward side at the front door with the “U. S. Life Saving Service” sign prominently displayed on the eaves. Photo measures 3 ½” x 5 ½” on postcard paper. Good clear sepia image, light wear. (VG). $19.

  

2881. [magic lantern glass slide) S.S. Princess May wrecked on Sentinel Island, Alaska, on August 5, 1910. The Princess May was part of a fleet of passenger and freight haulers operated by the Canadian Pacific Railroad Company along the West Coast of North America. She was built in 1888 and measured 249 feet long. She was steaming at full speed in the early morning in heavy fog, southbound from Skagway, Alaska, when she stranded on the island’s rocky outcrop on August 5, 1910, within full view of the lighthouse on the island. The lifeboats were lowered and some 80 passengers and the 68-member were safely evacuated to the island. When the tide went out and the ship was left high and dry, as it appears in the classic picture snapped by W. H. Case. The Princess May was salvaged about a month later by Captain W. H. Logan and his salvage tug Santa Cruz, from Seattle. Logan managed to get the steamer lighted and re-floated during high tide. Slide measures 3 ¼” x 4” and presents a superb, clear image. (F).  $38.

2882. (magic lantern glass slide) U. S. Lightship underway. c.1890-1910. Beautiful b/w  glass projection slide features a U. S. lightship underway on a New England river. The vessel looks freshly painted and may be new. Slide manufactured in Boston.  Slide measures 3 ¼” x 4” and presents a fine, clear image, much better than that shown. (F).  $24.

28100a. (stereoview) Richmond Pearson Hobson “The Hero of the Merrimac” c.1898 by Strohmeyer & Wyman Publishers, New York. Richard Hobson was born in Alabama, Hobson graduated from the U. S. Naval Academy in 1889. Hobson then served at various Navy Yards and facilities, including a tour of duty as instructor at the Naval Academy. In the early days of the Spanish American War, he was with Admiral William T. Sampson in New York, and arrived off Santiago on June 1, 1898. In order to bottle up the Spanish squadron, Hobson took temporary command of collier Merrimac, which he would attempt to sink as an obstruction in the channel. The attempt was made early June 3rd under heavy Spanish fire, which disabled the steering gear of the collier. Hobson did sink the Merrimac, but was unable to place her in the shallowest part of the channel. With his intrepid crew of six, he was picked up by Admiral Cervera himself, and treated quite chivalrously for his gallant expedition. Hobson was advanced ten numbers in grade after the war for his heroics and later, in 1933 was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic attempt to block the channel was made a rear admiral by act of Congress. He later became a naval architect, author, and lecturer; and was elected as a Democrat to the Sixtieth and to the three succeeding Congresses (March 4, 1907-March 3, 1915). Clear, close view shows Hobson as a young man shortly after his war exploits posing on a pier with ships behind. Nice view, light wear, excellent historical Naval image. (VG+).   $44.

28100b-g. (lot 6 Maine stereoviews) Lot of six Maine views, some by A. D. Banney of Lewiston, Maine c.1890. Six views include small village from hill, wooden locks on river waterfall (2 views), also village scene from snow covered field, and two views of ships in harbor (one may be “H. L. Hill”). Most with some soiling, light wear. Good turn of the century lot. (VG). $44.

9404. (stereoview) Stony Point Lighthouse, Hudson River, New York c.1890. In 1826, the first and oldest lighthouse on the Hudson River was constructed at historic Stony Point to mark the entrance to the Hudson Highlands. The completion of the Erie Canal the previous year, which linked New York City to America's heartland, increased traffic on the Hudson River dramatically, and the need for navigational aids was paramount. The 30-foot-tall octagonal Stony Point Lighthouse, built of blue split stone, was constructed by Thomas Phillips of New York City, at a cost of $3,350. The tower has three stories and a basement, originally used to store whale oil. In October, 1995, the lighthouse was restored, relighted, and re-opened to the public for the first time since 1925, when it was decommissioned after having served for nearly one hundred years. View is close and fairly clear, providing an unprecedented view of the early light tower. View has moderate wear, with two corners of mount broken, light foxing, emulsion worn on one side. (G). $24.

 

2872. (set 3 copy photos) Seal Island Lighthouse, Nova Scotia. c. May 5, 1933. Three early digitally reproduced views show the Seal Island Light station in 1933. Before anyone lived on Seal Island, shipwrecked mariners lucky enough to have reached its shores alive often died of starvation and exposure during the harsh winter months. There was much concern about the loss of life. On one occasion 21 people were buried in shallow graves in a single day. Construction began in 1830 - the large wood structure was built of massive squared timbers, 47 feet long, framed and set in a rock and mortar foundation. The lantern floor was reinforced with heavy wood knees, and stout cross members braced the rest of the tower. On the night of November 28, 1831 the fixed light was lit for the first time. In 1902 the original fixed light was replaced with a second order revolving lens, manufactured by Barbier, Benard & Turenne in Paris. In 1870 the first steam fog whistle was established near the lighthouse for use during periods of thick weather and in 1900 a new building was constructed and the whistle installed there. A few years later a diaphone was introduced, remaining in service until it was replaced by electronic horns in 1973. These three close, clear views show the tall light tower, keeper’s house and the 1900 whistle building. Three views measure 5” x 7” each. (F). $22.

2846. (photo) Lighthouse Lantern “Beacons of the Sea” by M. W. Sampson. Fine early photo, possibly intended for a phot contest, provides an unusually close, clear view of a 5th order 1870’s type iron lighthouse lantern and lens. Photo measures 8” x 10 ½” and is mounted on period mat. Light aging or soiling, would be striking matted and framed. (VG). $44.

2869. (photo) Keeper Joseph Hindley with wife Charlotte, Last Civilian Keepers, Nobska Lighthouse, Falmouth, Mass. c.1973. Prominent Nobska Point was an ideal place for a lighthouse. In 1829, the year the lighthouse was established, it was reported that more than 10,000 vessels passed through the area. The Coast Guard took over the management of lighthouses in 1939, but civilian keepers remained at Nobska Point Light until November 1973. Osborne Hallett was principal keeper at Nobska Lighthouse from 1955 to 1968, and Joseph Hindley was his assistant. Hindley took over as keeper in 1968. When he retired in 1973, Hindley was believed to be the last civilian lighthouse keeper in New England. His career in the Lighthouse Service dated back to 1927, when he was an assistant at Whale Rock Light in Rhode Island. Period press photograph measures 7 ¼” x 9” and includes caption in which Keeper Hindley notes that after spending 46 years staring at the ocean “It was all pretty boring…” At the time of the photo, Keeper Hindley with his wife live in retirement in Falmoouth. Clean, clear, wire photo b/w. (VG). $110.

2868. [photograph] U. S. Coast Guard Surfman c.1915-1925. Original portrait photograph of a U. S. Coast Guard Surfman. This rare posed portrait photograph shows the young surfman proudly posing in his 7-button single-breasted uniform coat. Clearly visible on his uniform cap is “U. S. Coast Guard” on the band. Photo measures 3 ½” x 5 ½” on postcard paper (dated by manufacturer’s mark 1905-1920s). Photo is clear, and crisp, one of the better images we have had in some time. It is exceptionally rare to see such photos of such early surfmen in any format. Overall clean, close view. (VG+).  $68.

2877. (mounted photo) Boston Light Station c.1896. Large 7 ½” x 9 ½” on 10” x 12” mount provides unusually close, clear view of the light station on Boston’s Little Brewster Island. View is dated 1896 and was taken by W. S. Eliott. View includes the tall light tower, attached keeper’s house, second keeper’s house and steam fog signal building, taken from the rocky shoreline. Superb view, clear and clean, one damage area on keeper’s house measuring about 1” square where mount was struck, tearing image surface, but this is not terribly distracting. Still would look wonderful framed. (G+). $144.

2809. (stereoview) Remains of fortification, Fort William and Mary, Newcastle , NH c.1890 by M. M. Collis, Portsmouth , NH. Often thought to be the remails of the lighthouse tower, this photo view,  taken sometime between 1872 and 1897, shows the, near the remains of a War of 1812-era Martello tower, which sat just beyond the lighthouse keeper’s dwelling. Known as the Walbach Martello Tower , it was originally built in 1814 as part of the fortifications here. The state gave Frost Point, on which Fort William and Mary stands, to the Federal government in 1791 to protect Portsmouth . In 1808, the defense was renamed Fort Constitution . It was manned and expanded during the War of 1812. On a nearby small hill was added a Walbach Tower , a Martello-built in 1814. View is fairly clean and close, a few marks from wear and pen to the margin. (VG-). $24.

    

27454. (photo album) Plum Island and Newburyport , Massachusetts c.1890’s. Vintage Newburyport , Massachusetts photograph album. This great little album measures 7 ½” by 5 ½” inches and contains 44 photos, many well done. Included is a lovely close photo of the white octagonal Plum Island Lighthouse. In 1838 the original twin octagonal lighthouses on this spot were replaced by a new pair of octagonal towers built on moveable foundations. In 1856 one of the lighthouses was destroyed by fire and it was decided not to rebuild. The surviving lighthouse received a fourth order Fresnel lens and remains today. In addition, a second photo provides a close view of the Bibb #2 Type station on Plum Island at the Merrimack Ri ver . Other images include beach scenes, a nice view of salt marsh hay stacks, a beach cottage labeled "Hardy's, river scene with early ship (may be in the Merrimack River), New England church, colonial homes, family scenes, etc. Sizes vary, the average being about 4 x 3 ½” inches. About a dozen or so photos show fading or lightness from exposure problems, others are clear and sharp. (VG-). $168.

  

27414. (copy photo) Construction of Minot’s Ledge Lighthouse. October 1857. After the loss of the previous iron tower, work on the new stone tower began in 1855. Because the construction could only take place at low tide on calm days, the cutting and assembling of the granite took place at Cohasset's Government Island, attached to the mainland. Once cut and fitted, a team of oxen moved the blocks to a vessel that brought them to the ledge. This photo was made from the original U. S. Light House Establishment, 2nd District photohraph and shows the workers cutting and fitting the granite blocks in Cohasset before being taken to the site. Photo measures 8” x 10” and is clear with great detail. Photo printed some time ago by Culver Pictures, New York. (VG+). $34.

    

25339. (photo)  Fairport Harbor Lighthouse, Ohio. c.1920. 5” x 9”. The original lighthouse accompanied by a two-story keeper's dwelling was completed in 1825. The tower stood thirty feet high, capped with an octagonal-shaped iron lantern. Due to deterioration the tower and keeper's house had to be replaced. Rebuilt in 1871, the tower now stands sixty feet high and has a spiral staircase of 69 steps which leads to an observation platform. (VG). $38.

27447. (photo) Coast Guard Life Saving Crew, Lorain, Ohio. c.1918. 5” x 9”. Rare close photo shows the five crew members in full storm dress posing for the camera. Close view shows good details of the storm gear and kapok life jackets. On the back, the five men are identified by a son or daughter, who notes that this was “dad’s first year of service there”. Men are identified as “Ty Cobb, Dad, Ed Rock, Carl Williams and Abie Crank. This is an extremely scarce view of this rarely photographed turnout gear. Photo measures 3 ½” x 5 ½” on postcard paper (dated by manufacturer’s mark 1904-1918). Overall clean, only light soiling or wear, close view. (VG).  $128.

8426b,c. [glass slide] Some Operations of the Life-Saving Corps, Jamestown Exposition. #14219. c.1907 by Keystone View Company. Beautiful b/w glass projection slide featuring the Life-Saving Service performing breeches buoy drill at the Jamestown Exposition. The crew of six are in the foreground pulling a seventh member from an offshore vessel. The pinstriped wheels of the beach apparatus cart are just visible in the foreground. Slide measures 3 ¼” x 4” and presents a superb, clear image. Includes original printed description.  (F).  $38.

27422. (set 2 photos) U. S. Coast Guard Surfboat c.1930s. Two close photos show good detail of the crew launching the surfboat down the “railway”. Second photo shows the boat overturned in the water as the crew practices the overturn drill. Photos measure 3 3/8” x 5 ½” and have only light wear, except corner missing from one. (VG-). $48.

27396. [stereoview] Drill of the U. S.  Life-Saving Service, Louisiana Purchase Exposition c. 1904. by Universal Photo Art Co., C. H. Graves, Philadelphia . Clear image shows life-saving crew at exhibit righting their capsized lifeboat for the watching crowd. Visible are the crew and their boat “Intrepid”, and the throngs watching from shore. Clean, clear, nice view. (VG+). $44.

26115. (set 3 photos) Wreck and Rescue of the Oakey L. Alexander, Cape Elizabeth, Maine March 3, 1947 by Gannett Publishing Co. Early in the morning of March 3, 1947, the 5284 ton collier "Oakey L. Alexander" was battling her way toward Portland in a wild northeaster. In very heavy seas and winds up to a hurricane force, 130 feet of her heavily loaded bow suddenly broke away and immediately sank. With the rest of the ship still afloat, Captain Raymond W. Lewis headed for nearby High Head at Cape Elizabeth at slow speed so the forward bulkheads would not buckle. The ship’s radio operator sent an SOS that was immediately answered by the Coast Guard. When the ship ran aground at High Head, men from the nearby Cape Elizabeth Coast Guard Station were ready for a breeches buoy rescue. A Lyle gun successfully fired a line to the ship, and a heavier hawser was pulled across and secured. One by one all aboard were pulled safely ashore riding in the breeches buoy. The remaining cargo of coal was saved, but the ship was a total loss. She would be stripped and cut up for salvage. Nice lot of three period photographs show a crewman as he is pulled ashore, and the vessel as she founders in the surf. Measuring 5” x 3 ½” and printed on postcard paper, photos are clean and clear. (VG+). $74. 

27418. (photo) Control panel for Experimental Lightship No. 99. c.1950. Lightship No. 99 was constructed in 1916. She was assigned to a number of stations on the Great Lakes and the East Coast until 1949, when  the Coast Guard modified Lightship No. 99 to an unmanned, experimental radio-controlled vessel named Exp or Exp-99, and later Sandy Hook Experimental Lightship. The vessel was to have a "crew" of electronic devices operating automatically or controlled by radio from shore. Each of its signals --marker light, foghorn, radio beacon, and bell -- is either duplicated or otherwise arranged to defy failure. Cost of the new ship was $375, 000 --just half of a manned lightship. An annual saving of $59,000 in maintenance and personnel was also anticipated. The vessel was moved to the Coast Guard's Third District headquarters at Staten Island, New York, in May 1950, for a three-month experimental trial run at the Ambrose station. However, the experiment was postponed indefinitely and the experimental vessel was apparently never used. Original b/w photo is by Acme News Pictures and includes news description dated April 29, 1950. Photo measures 7” x 9” and is clean and clear, light wear only. (VG). $54.

26204. (large photo) Ocracoke Lighthouse, North Carolina. c.1950-1970. 14” x 19” b/w on mat. Located on the island of Ocracoke, this is the oldest operating lighthouse in North Carolina and is equipped with a fourth-order Fresnel lens. The present 75-foot tall structure is the third, built in 1822. The lighthouse was cemented and whitewashed in 1868, giving it the appearance it has today. Excellent professional clear close view of entire tower and gallery, superb for framing. Light wear. (VG). $38.

27398. (set 3 photos) Steamboats City of Cincinnati and City of Louisville c.1910. Three clear, close views provide excellent detail of these well known Ohio River steamboats. Their fate - in 1918, the Ohio River, frozen for 51 days, crushed the hulls of the steamers City of Cincinnati, City of Louisville, Greenland, Loucinda, Julius Fleischman, Val. P. Collins, Island Princess and Island Queen. Measuring 5” x 3 ½” and printed on postcard paper, photos are clean and clear. (VG+). $68. 

27400. (plan) Outboard Profile Steamship New Bedford, New England Steamship Company c.1927. Outboard profile plan on a velum-like material of the new steamship New Bedford. These overnight boats were the first reliable and consistent form of transportation in the area for commuters, tourists, and business travelers. As the steamers carried tons of cargo as well as travelers, their services were essential to manufacturers in the industrial communities of central New England. View measures 10” x 32” on larger sheet. View is a later copy. Great for research or can be flattened for framing. (VG). $22.

27331a. (cabinet photo) Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department Firefighter c.1880. Superb clear, close portrait photograph of young mustachioed firefighter of the Worcester Fire Department. Taken by Critcherson Photographer, 326 Main Street, Worcester, Mass. Photo is clean and clear, a fine early view. (VG+). $64

27331b. (cabinet photo) Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department Firefighter c.1880. Superb clear, close portrait photograph of a mateur  mustachioed firefighter of the Worcester Fire Department. Taken by Davis Photographer, Main & Park Streets, Worcester, Mass. Photo is clean and clear, a fine early view. (F-). $74

Other similar firefighter views available including Haverhill, Waltham, Medford and Brockton.

 

X-11. (photo print) Pemaquid Point Lighthouse, Maine. Probably the finest color image that I have yet seen, this spectacular full color image measures a full 16” x 20”. The photo print is from a photograph by Josiah Davidson and published by Impact Images. Absolutely superb detail and color, this sunset view would grace any wall when framed. Clean, crisp, only light bending to corners but will mat out. (VG+).   $22.

25367. (cabinet photo) Surfman, U. S. Life Saving Service by F. B. Way, Ashtabula, Ohio. c.1890-1900. Superb view shows a handsome surfman, posing with uniform hat in hand. Easily readable is the “Life Saving Service” on his band and his “U. S. L. S. S.” insignia on his arm. Clear close view on photographer’s mount measures 4 ¼” x 6 ½” . Moderate edge wear to mount, otherwise clean crisp view. (VG). $295. 

2602. (photograph) Split Rock Lighthouse and Fog Signal, Minnesota c.1940-60. The U. S. Lighthouse Service completed the 7.6-acre facility in 1910 and operated it until 1939, when the U.S. Coast Guard took command. The station closed in 1969, when modern navigational equipment made it obsolete, and the State of Minnesota obtained the scenic landmark in 1971. Superb 8x10 b/w photograph shows great detail of the lighthouse lantern and tower, as well as the dual fog signal trumpets. Clean, clear, only one small crease to lower corner. (VG).  $38.  

25360. (Aerial Photo Map) Provincetown, Massachusetts c.2001. Huge! 36 x 36 inch  full color air photo map displays topography, vegetation, urban development, agriculture and other geographic features with true colors in a huge poster format. This map was professionally created from aerial photography captured in April 2001 from 15,000 feet in altitude. During this time of year the ground is mostly free of snow and the trees do not have their leaves, so much of the detail including roads, dunes and more can be seen. The map is printed on heavy matte paper and is suitable for framing. It would look quite nice  mounted on an office wall, hanging in the den, workshop or simply tacked up in the garage! Shipped rolled. (M). $29.95

25377. (Limited edition lithographed print) The Nantucket Lightship by Marshall DuBock. Numbered of 750, lithograph by noted Nantucket artist Marshall DuBock is a sought after work of art. Copyright by Nantucket Lithographers Ltd. c.1977, the large print measures 22" by 34". Marshall DuBock has always been fascinated by the inimitable history, personality, and grace of Nantucket Island. DuBock continued his art education at the Portland School of Fine and Applied Art and in Florence, Italy, and throughout the years has carefully developed a realistic watercolor style that distinguishes him as one of Nantucket Island's most beloved artists. In 1979 he opened The Nantucket Gallery at 23 Federal Street, which offers original watercolors and signed, limited-edition prints. A year-round resident, the artist continues to combine current visual impressions with years of memories abetted by his extensive knowledge of Island history, and as a result he captures the very spirit of the Island in his watercolor paintings, which are known, collected, and loved all over the country. All prints are signed and numbered by the artist in a limited edition of 750 prints and are printed on 80-lb. watercolor paper under the direct supervision of the artist. Rolled $395. Framed $585.  

Mr. DuBock has also kindly agreed to accept commissions for paintings of lightships and lighthouses to meet your requests. Please contact us for more information.

25311. (hand colored photograph) Marshall Point Lighthouse, Port Clyde, Maine. c.1900. Beautiful hand colored photograph in original period frame shows a wonderful view of the light station from the rocky shore. The present 31-foot brick and granite lighthouse was built at a cost of $5,000 in 1857. A bell tower is visible as well in the photo and was built at the station in 1898. The original 1832 keeper's house stood until 1895, when it was destroyed by lightning. The 1890’s Colonial Revival house shown in the photo was constructed that same year and still stands. Photo is clear and crisp, and is nicely hand colored as was the practice at the time. The image measures 6 ½” x 8 ½”, on period mat. Original frame measures 13” x 15”. Overall in quite condition with only a light water marks on the lower margin. (VG). $88.

  Original Lighthouse Photography by Bruce Roberts.

 

 Bruce Roberts has been a well known and respected lighthouse historian, photographer and author since the subject gained the nation’s interest in the 1980’s. The former Director of Photography and Senior Photographer at Southern Living Magazine, Bruce was also a member of the legendary 1960s photo staff of The Charlotte Observer, which pioneered the use of the 35mm camera and natural light for newspaper photography. For over twenty years, lighthouses have become his favorite subject. His renowned lighthouse photography has appeared in hundreds of books and magazines including Southern Lighthouses and American Lighthouses.  Bruce has also done freelance photography for Life Magazine, Sports Illustrated and many others. He has coauthored numerous best selling lighthouse books as well as numerous other historical books. His photography is respected world wide and some are part of the permanent collection of the Smithsonian Institution. He is also a founding charter member of the Outer Banks Lighthouse Society . “Bruce Roberts has earned the right to be acknowledged as one of our era’s most important photojournalists, and although he seldom displays them, he has a room full of awards to prove it.” says co-author Ray Jones.

We have been most fortunate to obtain from Mr. Roberts a selection of his early lighthouse photographs done for his first  lighthouse series with Globe Pequot;  Northern Lighthouses and Southern Lighthouses. These prints were hand printed by Mr. Roberts at the time and all bear his signature on the back. They are all printed on double weight fiber based paper of the same type used for museum archival printing. All are silver prints done by hand and tray processed – an art that is fast fading away today, being replaced by digital photography. Because of the process and paper used, these museum quality prints will last a hundred years into the future.  

Presently we have 37 prints available in 8 x 10 and 11 x 14 format, with pricing from $25 to $125. Light stations include: (Maine) Portland Head (2), Pemaquid Point (3), Portland Breakwater (1) , Owls Head (1), Fort Point (1) , (Mass.) Boston Light (4), Nobska (3), (Conn.) New London (1), (Maryland) Assateague (1),  (Virginia) Portsmouth Lightship (2), Old Point Comfort (1802) (2), Old & New Cape Henry (1), (Georgia) Cockspur Island (1), (Florida) St. Augustine (1), Pensacola (5), Port Boca Grande (Gasparilla Is.) (1), (Alabama) Sand Island (1), Mobile Bay (1), (Texas) Old Point Isabel (shown below) (2), Bolivar Point (shown below) (1),

We have shown just a few here but this medium does not do them justice. When matted and framed, you will have a lovely work of art for your wall. Many more are available. Please ask for specific stations noted above and we will email you images available and pricing. 

Fort Point, Maine 11 x 14 $125,  Pensacola, Fl. 8 x 10 $44,  Old Point Isabel, Texas 6 x 9 $40

   

 Drum Point (Md), Ponce Inlet (Fl), Jupiter Inlet (Fl), Tybee Island (Ga), Boca Grande (Fl), Hooper's Strait (Md), Sand Island (Al). Please inquire for pricing.

Bolivar Point, (Tx) 6 x 9 $45

U. S. Coast Guard photos: Tillamook Rock Lighthouse (Ca), Cleveland West Pierhead LH, Two Harbors LH, Chicago Harbor LH, Buffalo Harbor LH. Also many of motor lifeboats, patrol boats,  and stations available. Please inquire.

24351. (photograph) Sandy Point Lighthouse, Rhode Island. c.1950-60’s. Located on the east side of Prudence Island in Narragansett Bay, the fifth order white octagonal tower and keeper’s dwelling was built in 1862. During the terrible September hurricane of 1938, five persons, including the wife of the lighthouse keeper, were carried out to sea and drowned, when the dwelling house on the lighthouse reservation was swept away by the savage fury of the tropical gale. The keeper was also thrown into the sea, but another wave swept him back ashore. The light itself is only 28 feet above water and is visible for 10 miles, flashing green every 6 seconds. It is now unwatched, being a 1,400-candlepower fourth-order electric unit. This superb b/w view measures a full 11” x 14” on heavy paper hand printed during the period and will look superb matted and framed. A fine view. (VG). $128 net.

  

8333n. [stereoview] International Exhibition 1876, Machinery Exhibit. (c.1870’s). By Centennial Photographic  Co. (VG+). $18.

8333L. [stereo view] THE GREAT LIGHT-HOUSE LENS MOUNTED FOR WORK,  ELECTRIC BUILDING , WORLD’S COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION. B. W. Kilburn view,  Littleton, NH . c. 1893. Rare stereo view of the large bi-valve first-order lens at the Light-House Establishment exhibit in the Electric Building at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition. This is a clean, detailed view showing the large lens and clockwork rotating mechanism, and other portions of the electric exhibit. Nice, clear, clean view, light wear. (VG).  $34.

8333o. [stereo view] [LIGHT-HOUSE EXHIBIT, U. S. GOVERNMENT BUILDING – TRANSEPT LOOKING SOUTH. International Exhibition 1876. (c.1876). By Centennial Photographic Co. Rare stereo view of the large first-order and other lenses at the Light-House Establishment exhibit at the 1876 International  Exposition. This is an extremely clean, detailed view showing most of the two lenses, Lighthouse Service ensign and other portions of the electric exhibit. Nice, quite clear, clean view. (VG+).  $48.

 

25212. (commemorative photo trivet) U. S. Coast Guard Cutters Semmes (CG-20), Jouett (CG-13), Henley (CG-12), New York c.1932. This commemorative hot plate/trivet bears an original photograph of the cutters and crew. The crew photo, taken at New York, provides a great view of the early 1930’s crew and cutters behind. A total of thirty-one Navy destroyers were lent to the Coast Guard for the enforcement of Prohibition in the early 1930’s. The vessels ranged from the prewar 742-ton "flivvers" to the postwar four-stack flush deckers like Semmes. Adapting these vessels to service was thought to be less costly than building new ships and these vessels were by far the largest and most sophisticated vessels ever operated by the service. All were capable of over 25 knots, an advantage in the rum-chasing business, but they were easily outmaneuvered by smaller boats. As a result, the destroyers’ mission was to picket the larger supply ships ("mother ships") and prevent them from off-loading their cargo onto smaller, speedier contact boats. CG-20 Semmes was the last destroyer taken over by the service and had the shortest destroyer career. She was stationed at New York. Shown in the photo is the Semmes moored outboard of either the CG-13 Jouett or the CG-12 Henley (can’t distinguish the number designation). The photo has been laminated on a hand painted tin frame. The photo has two tears that looks like they were repaired when laminated, but overall in good shape. The crew are all in their dress whites with the exception of one chief. Provides great view of vessels and uniforms of the period. 6” x 8” with wire wall hanger on back. Light yellowing from age, a great wall decoration. (VG-). $54.  

25160. (photo poster print) Schooner Nathaniel T. Palmer. A grand Full Size Poster Print of the 5 masted 295 foot schooner Nathaniel T. Palmer. Bound  from  Portland Maine , she stranded at  Long Beach ,  New Jersey on March 11, 1901, tossed ashore by severe weather and heavy seas. She was the largest schooner in the world when she was built in 1898 in  Bath ,  Maine , weighing in at close to 2,500 tons. Her crew of 12 was rescued by the Long Beach Life Saving Station. The vessel was refloated after a little over a week, and sent on her way to  Philadelphia . A nice look also of 'Turn Of The Century' Beach Houses off to the left. Reproduced by the AIS  Photo Art Gallery , the poster is a High Resolution Print on Premium Heavy High Gloss Photo Paper with a 25 year non-fade warrantee. It measures approximately 24" x 34", (exact dimensions may vary) and comes with a 1/2 inch white border. The white border is designed to fit under framing material. It's made by one of the most advanced Photo Art Printers in the industry which produces a Premium Quality Poster Print. (M). $56.

2554. (photo) Eaton’s Neck Long Island labeled on back “Eaton’s Neck Coast Guard”. c.1900. Beautiful cyanotype view details the imposing building and tall flag mast in the foreground. 9” x 10 ½” in early 20th Century frame. (VG). $48.  

  

25118. (cabinet photo) U. S. Lighthouse Tender Sequoia. The Sequoia was constructed by the New York Shipbuilding Company,  Camden ,  New Jersey and commissioned on 13 August 1908. She was 190 feet in length and powered by two triple expansion inverted direct acting steam engines. She operated out of  San Francisco for her entire career. At the entry of the  United States into World War I when the Lighthouse Service was incorporated into the Navy, she continued her west coast service under Navy control through the end of the war. She was returned--with the entire Lighthouse Service--to the custody of the Department of Commerce on 1 July 1919. On 1 July 1946 she was decommissioned and in October  transferred to  Philippines . Beautiful cabinet photo measures 4 ¼’ x 5 ¼” and shows the Sequoia  moored at the depot pier. Clean, crisp, fine view. (F-). $78.

CP-01. (print) Historic Lighthouses Cape Cod. The Historic Lighthouse series of prints uses rare photos from the 1800’s showing American Lighthouses in their turn-of-the-century splendor. Using sophisticated twentieth century computer enhancement, these specialized prints are produced on quality 80lb. bright white paper stock. Each print shows beautiful clear 1800’s views from original period photographs. These prints measure 18" wide by 24" high and, because of the fine quality, these make wonderful candidates for framing and decorating. Watch also for future prints featuring vintage photographs and architectural plans of other locations. (Actual size 18"w x 24"h, shipped rolled.). Historic Lighthouses - Cape Cod. Retail priced at $19.95. Dealer and wholesale pricing available. Similar postcards also available at wholesale prices.

 

25111. [photograph] c.1890. Original studio portrait style photograph of a Life-Saving Service Surfman. This rare posed portrait photograph shows the surfman proudly posing in his double-breasted uniform coat. Clearly visible on his cap is the lettering “U.S. Life Saving Service”. The photo measures 3” x 5” and has been crudely trimmed. There is no photographer’s marking or label. Photo is fairly clean and clear, provided good detail. It is quite rare to see such photos. (VG-). $152 net.

     

25100. [photo] Light-House Keeper Martha's Vineyard c.1910. Photo of Principal Keeper by Rodgers, Oak Bluffs, Martha's Vineyard. Printed on postcard paper, clear, crisp view shows great detail. Clean, crisp view 2" oval on 3 1/2" x 5 1/2" stock. "AZO" paper. (VG+). $158 net. 

25114. (matted print) Monomoy Point Light – Cape Cod by David W. Clough. Wonderful matted  color print from the original water color would look wonderful framed for your wall. Full color print measures 4 ½” x 6 ½” and is double-matted for framing. (F). $21.95.

  23370. Witzell, Susan Fletcher, Jane A. McLaughlin and Mary Lou Smith. NEW ENGLAND VIEWS - THE PHOTOGRAPHY OF  BALDWIN COOLIDGE (1845-1928). Woods Hole. 1998. 181 p. DJ. Wonderful work features 189 duotone images selected from the plates of the noted  Boston photographer Baldwin Coolidge whose photographs spanned the period of the 1880s to 1917. Over his career, Coolidge took many pictures in Woods Hole, as well as Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket, the  Elizabeth Islands ,  New Hampshire ,  Maine along the  Merrimack , the  North Shore , city scenes and maritime views as well. Superb views include a number of light stations and life saving stations in the area, as well as ships and shipwrecks, farm and city life of the period, and much more. Published with the cooperation of The Society for the Preservation of New England Antiquities (SPNEA). New England Views won First Prize in the American Association of Museum's 1999 Design Competition. It was also chosen as one of the 50 Books/50 Covers in the annual design competition of the American Institute of Graphic Arts in 1999. A visual feast for those interested in nineteenth century  America . (M).  $49.95

 2590. [photo] Point Betsie Light-House, Frankfort, Mich. c.1910. Clear, close view includes the light tower and attached keeper’s dwelling as the keepers pose in the foreground. Printed on postcard paper, clear, crisp view shows great detail. Clean, crisp view 3 ½” x 5 ½”  stock. "AZO" paper. Light soil and one bent corner. (VG). $78 net.

27360. (photo) U. S. Coast Guard work crew c.1930. Good photo shows early U. S. Coast Guard (lettered on door) truck as men work filling ruts on road leading to station. 3 ½” x 5 ½” b/w. (VG). $6

SE-01. [photos] Light-House Keeper Photos Michigan City Lighthouse 1910. Michigan City Lighthouse, Indiana c.1910. Set of two photographs taken by 2nd Assistant Light Keeper Fred Dykeman show the keeper's dwelling and the keepers digging a utility trench to the dwelling. The larger photo measures 5" x 7" and shows family members posed in front of the 1858 dwelling in good detail. On the left is 1st Assistant Keeper Thomas Martin and his wife Lottie. On the right is Anna, the wife of 2nd Assistant Keeper Dykeman. The photo was taken by 2nd Assistant Keeper Dykeman. Second photo is on postcard paper, 3 " x 5 ", and shows the two keepers and other workers digging a utility trench for a drain from the south side of the building. Keeper Dykeman is on the far right with the shovel and Keeper Thomas Armstrong stands next to him. The back of the card is written to "John" by Keeper Dykeman and signed "Fred Dykenam, 2nd Assistant Light Keeper". Card is postmarked 1910 and in his massage he mentions their tasks of cutting wood, and that tomorrow they will be pulling the station boat up out of the water. Dykeman was keeper here from 1909 until 1915. There are a few light creases to larger photo but both are quite clean, clean and crisp. This is a superb documentary of the family and life at this Indiana light station. (VG). $125.

2546. (painting) o/b. Minot’s Ledge Light House by S. Ford. Estimate c.1940-1960’s. Beautiful  16” x 20” (22 ½”  x 18 ½” overall) oil painting on artist board of the early iron lighthouse on Minot’s Ledge. In the foreground a lifeboat drops off the keeper or visitor as he is transferred up to the light. Nice detail on this original piece discovered in a home on Cape Cod last year. Signed by the artist “S. Ford”. Framed in c.1930-40’s decorated wood frame. (VG).  $134. 

Original U. S. Light House Establishment Photographs

by Herbert Bamber 

Engineer, United States Lighthouse Establishment

  The original photographs were taken by Herbert Bamber, a civil engineer for the US Light-House Establishment during the period 1892-93.  During this period, Mr.  Bamber traveled the entire country surveying and photographing the light stations for the LH Establishment files. The original photos that he took are today in the National Archives and you can see many reproduced in  lighthouse references. However, Mr. Bamber made an extra print of each photograph for his own files and these photographs were found in his barn in the  Midwest a few years ago. These were original photographs, hand printed at the lighthouse location in 1892-93. You will note that many of these views show the keeper or his family posed, as photographers were somewhat rare and special.  These rare early views were from a process known as cyanotype, named for one chemical, cyan, that is used, thus the blue/white coloring rather than the traditional black/white. Most photographs printed in this manner show considerable detail. The process was commonly used in the field, and by amateurs at home during the period 1880-1920 because of its relative ease compared to other chemical processes.   Photos measure 8" x 10" and are nicely matted to 11" x 14" for framing. 

U-01. Fort Sumter, SC.,  Lighthouse and Bell Tower. (shown) $165. (sold)

U-02. Ship Island, Mississippi,  Light House and Dwelling.  $155.

U-03. Round Island, Mississippi,  Light House and Dwelling.  $110.

2525. (photograph)  New Haven Outer Breakwall, or Sperry Lighthouse. c.1900. Large period photograph on mat provides a clear, close view of this tall iron “sparkplug type” lighthouse in New Haven Harbor. The Outer Breakwall Light, which became popularly known as the Sperry Light, was built in 1899 to help guide mariners past the outermost of three breakwaters in New Haven Harbor. Photo measures 4 ½” x 5 ½” on original 8” x 10” mat. Photo by E. G. Wooster, New Haven, Ct. Clear, close, light foxing, wear to corners of mat. (VG-).  $88 net.

24412b. (stereoview) Wauwinet House,  Nantucket . c.1880. By J. Freeman. Fine clear view from the pier of the Wauwinet House, where from the mid-1800s, when The Wauwinet House first opened, guests arrived by boat to enjoy the restaurant’s “shore dinners” and its sweeping views of Nantucket Bay. Quite clean and clear. (VG+).  $78 net.

24412a. (stereoview) “Hermit of Quidnet”, Nantucket. c.1880. By J. Freeman. “…Fred Parker was something of a celebrity even in the 1800s. Fred Parker had been a carpenter in town, pursuing his business in a shop on South Water Street. He made the decision sometime around the age of 60 to retire from the hubbub of humanity and live alone in a slightly ramshackle dwelling in quiet Quidnet. He was a man of intelligence and possessed a large stock of general information. He read constantly and on his death a fair-sized collection of his notes and observations was found; it was even said that he’d intended to write a book….” (excerpted from Hermits, Asylums, & Suppression of Vice by Mary Miles).  This is a fine clear view of Mr. Parker relaxing at his home. Quite clean and clear. (VG+).  $96 net.  

2496. (stereoview)  Main Street and  Orange Street , Nantucket. c.1879. By J. Freeman. Fine clear view of stores and the Unitarian Church on  Main and Orange Streets. Quite clean and clear. (VG). $88 net.  Sold.

25303. (stereoview) Broadway, Siasconset,  Nantucket . c.1879. By J. Freeman. Clear view of homes and dirt roadway in this fishing village on Nantucket. Clear. Close, with moderate foxing and corner wear. (G+).  $34 net.

  Photo Retouching Service

 

We are now able offering the services of a photo retouching and restoration specialist. Note the above photo. Through complex scanning and printing techniques, all of the staining and marks  have been removed. Printed on quality gloss white photographic paper we now can have a beautiful print for framing showing far greater detail. If you have historic or family photos that are damaged and would like a restored print for framing, please call us and we will put you in touch with our specialist.

Copy Negative Sets

Herbert Bamber Collection

of the  United States Lighthouse Establishment

 The original photographs from which these negatives were made, were taken by Herbert Bamber, a civil engineer for the US Light-House Establishment during the period 1880-1910. Mr. Bamber supervised construction of many light stations across the country including Mosquito Inlet Light in  Florida . During the period 1892-93, Mr. Bamber traveled the entire country surveying and photographing the light stations for the LH Establishment files. The original photos that he took are today in the National Archives and you can see many reproduced in  lighthouse references. However, Mr. Bamber made an extra print of each photograph for his own files and these photographs were found in his barn in the Midwest a few years ago. These were original photographs, hand printed at the lighthouse location in 1892-93. You will note that many of these views show the keeper or his family posed, as photographers were somewhat rare and special.

These rare early views were from a process known as cyanotype, named for one chemical, cyan, that is used, thus the blue/white coloring rather than the traditional black/white. Most photographs printed in this manner show considerable detail. The process was commonly used in the field, and by amateurs at home during the period 1880-1920 because of its relative ease compared to other chemical processes.   

We re-photographed the entire collection and offer here the large format copy negatives made from his photographs. Negatives measure 2 ¼” x 3” and show great detail of the light towers, buildings and in many cases the keepers and their families. Regarding the following stations, we have the below listed negatives available:

  Isle of Shoals, NH. 1 negatives available $35, Little River Light, ME. 1 negatives available $35, Avery’s Rock, ME. 2 negatives available $70, Nash Island Light, ME. 3 negatives available $105, Petit Manan Light, ME. 2 negatives available $70, Ship Island, MS. 2 negatives available $70, E.  Pascagopula ,  MS . 3 negatives available $105, Round Island, MS. 2 negatives available $70, Horn Island, MS. 2 negatives available $70, Pensacola, FL. 5 negatives available $175, Fort Barrancas, FL. 2 negatives available $70,  Fort McRee , FL. 3 negatives available $105, Cape San Blas, FL. 2 negatives available $70, St. Marks, FL. 4 negatives available $140, Cedar Keys, FL. 2 negatives available $70, Key West, FL. 2 negatives available $70,  Morris Island , SC. 11 negatives available $385, Sullivan’s Island, SC. 5 negatives available $175, Fort Sumpter, SC. 3 negatives available $105, Bull’s Bay, SC. 5 negatives available $175, Cape Romain, SC. 9 negatives available $315, Georgetown, SC. 4 negatives available $140, Oak Island, SC. 5 negatives available $175,  Cape Fear ,  NC . 4 negatives available $140,  Cape Lookout ,  NC . 3 negatives available $105,  Ocracoke ,  NC . 2 negatives available $70,  Cape Hatteras ,  NC . 8 negatives available $280, Body’s  Island ,  NC . 5 negatives available $175,  Currituck Beach ,  NC . 5 negatives available $175,  Long Point ,  NC . 8 negatives available $280, Superior Pier Light, MI. 2 negatives available $70,  Duluth ,  MN . 4 negatives available $140, Two Harbors, MN. 4 negatives available $140,  Devils Island ,  WI . 4 negatives available $140, Outer  Island ,  WI . 5 negatives available $175,  Port Washington ,  WI . 4 negatives available $140, Point Loma, CA. 8 negatives available $280, Ballast Point, CA. 6 negatives available $210, Point Fermin, CA. 5 negatives available $175, Point Hueneme, CA. 4 negatives available $140, Santa Barbara, CA. 4 negatives available $140, Point Conception, CA. 7 negatives available $245, Piedras Blancas, CA. 3 negatives available $105, Point Sur, CA. 5 negatives available $175, Point Pinos, CA. 7 negatives available $245, Trinidad Head, CA. 2 negatives available $70, Cape Mendicino, CA. 1 negatives available $35,  Cape Flattery ,  WA . 2 negatives available $70,  Ediz Hook ,  WA . 2 negatives available $70, New  Dungeness ,  WA . 2 negatives available $70, Smith’s Island, WA. 2 negatives available $70, Turn Point Fog  Signa ,  WA . 2 negatives available $70,  Patos Island ,  WA . 2 negatives available $70, Admiralty Head, WA. 2 negatives available $70,  Point Robinson  WA . 3 negatives available $105,  Willapa Bay ,  WA . 2 negatives available $70.

Discounts available for quantity purchases – please inquire.

24356. (original photographs)  MAINE LIGHTHOUSES by Henry Way-Silvers. c.1950’s. These fantastic vintage 1950's black and white photographs were made by a wonderful scenery photographer named Henry Way-Silvers. Each is an original b/w print from his collection measuring 11" x 14" on double weight portrait paper and is in excellent condition. As originally printed, flat, perfect for matting and framing. Each is an original, hand printed and each slightly different from another. (VG+). $69.95 net each. 

a, m. (photograph)  FORT POINT LIGHTHOUSE, PENOBSCOTT BAY, MAINE. Taken from the fog bell tower, the photo provides a great view of the bell and lighthouse beyond. As originally rolled or flat. 

b, c, d. PEMAQUID POINT LIGHTHOUSE. Taken looking south at the light tower, with the  fog bell tower and dwelling  beyond. 

 

    e, f, g. PEMAQUID POINT LIGHTHOUSE. Taken looking south at the rocky ledge and light tower, a bit more distant, with the  fog bell tower and dwelling beyond. 

h, i, j, k, l.  PEMAQUID POINT LIGHTHOUSE. Taken looking south at the rocky ledge and light tower, a bit more distant, with the  fog bell tower and dwelling beyond. 

n.  PEMAQUID POINT FOG BELL TOWER AND OIL HOUSE. Taken looking south at the rocky ledge and fog bell tower, with the  oil house and bay beyond. 

o.  OWLS HEAD LIGHTHOUSE. Taken from the beach looking up at the stairway and lighthouse above.

 

24385c. [art print] CAPE ELIZABETH LIGHT STATION from original watercolor by Douglas Brega c.1995. This beautiful print was produced from the original painting and shows the Cape Elizabeth East Light tower (Maine) beside the striking Victorian keeper’s dwelling. Overall size is 14 ¾” x 18” on fine quality heavy paper. From the New York Graphic Society, printed in 2003, wonderful for framing. (M). $28.

  24385a. [art print] EVENING AT PEMAQUID POINT LIGHT STATION from original watercolor by Douglas Brega. This beautiful print was produced from the original painting and shows the stone light tower and attached keeper’s dwelling at Pemaquid Point, Maine. Overall size is 21”x 30” on fine quality heavy paper. From the New York Graphic Society, printed in 2000, wonderful for framing. (M). $44.

  

  24385d. [art print] CAPE NEDDICK NUBBLE LIGHT STATION [NIGHT WATCH] from original watercolor by Douglas Brega. This beautiful print was produced from the original 1992 painting and shows the stone light tower and attached keeper’s dwelling at York, Maine. Overall size is 16”x 21” on fine quality heavy paper. From the New York Graphic Society, printed in 2004, wonderful for framing. (M). $28.

  24385b. [art print] SCITUATE LIGHT STATION, MASS [POINT LOOKOUT]. from original watercolor by Zhen-Huan Lu. This beautiful print was produced from the original painting and shows the early masonry light tower with lantern and attached keeper’s dwelling at Scituate, Mass. Overall size is 24”x 30” on fine quality heavy paper. From Hope Street Editions, printed in 2002, wonderful for framing. (M). $46.

24385e. [art print] PORTLAND LIGHT STATION from original watercolor by Douglas Brega. This beautiful print was produced from the original painting and shows the stone light tower and attached keeper’s dwellings At Portland Head, Maine. Overall size is 24”x 32” on fine quality heavy paper. From the New York Graphic Society, printed in 2000, wonderful for framing. (M). $42.

        

AMBROSE LIGHTSHIP - GERALD LEVEY

We are now proud to offer:

Original Watercolor Paintings of Lightships, Naval and Commercial Vessels by Mr. Gerald Levey - listed American Artist.

We have arranged with Mr. Levey to now be able to offer his paintings through our catalogue sales. In addition we can commission a painting by the artist of your favorite lightship or other vessel in a year and setting of your choice.

Gerald Levey is a nationally recognized marine artist whose work is known for its salty ambiance and authenticity. For the past fifteen years, Mr. Levey has worked in the marine watercolor genre, specializing in paintings of merchant ships, water craft, and naval vessels of the Twentieth Century. Levey's works have been exhibited widely in galleries and museums on both coasts and his work has appeared in national exhibits of the American Society of Marine Artists held at the Mariners Museum at Newport News, Virginia, and at the Maryland Historical Society in Baltimore, Maryland. Levey has been designated a Navy and Coast Guard artist and is listed in the "Dictionary of Sea Painters of Europe and America," the authoritative compilation of marine artist of the 15th through 20th centuries. 

BRENTON LIGHTSHIP - GERALD LEVEY

See bottom of page for more information about artist.

2617. (photo) Provincetown Life Saving Service related. Early photo on postcard paper of gentleman standing in front of a sign reading "Parties Made Up Here Life Saving Stations". Commonly during Victorian times, summer visitors looked forward to a trip to the local life-saving station to visit with the men and to observe them as they drilled with their equipment. Here visitors waited for the carriages that would take them to the station. Image measures 2 1/2" x 3 1/2", on postcard paper. Light wear and foxing. (G+). $26.

26144. (framed hand colored photo) Portland Head Lighthouse, Maine c.1900. Superb classic view of Portland Head Lighthouse has been beautifully hand colored and mounted. Still framed in its original oak frame, this is a beautiful display piece. Image measures 2 ¼” x 7 ¾”, mounted in a 6 ¾” x 13 ¾” frame. Completely original with paper backing in place. (VG). $44.  

26125. (Set 3 cabinet photos). Point Sur Light Station, California c. 1900. Two tall coastal towers, Piedras Blancas and Pigeon Point, were constructed in the early 1870s to help light the California coast. However, between these two, distant towers, no major coastal light existed, leaving a good portion of the coast dark to mariners. After a decade of requests, Congress finally allocated $50,000 in 1886 and 1887 to construct the Point Sur Lighthouse. To transport materials to the summit, a tramway flanked by a wooden stairway was built on the eastern side of the rock. The lighthouse was placed in a notch on the northwestern extreme of the rock, several feet below the summit so as to be located below the typical fog level. The northern wing of the granite lighthouse housed the boilers for powering the 12-inch steam whistle, and the southern wing served as a watch- room and storageroom for fuel. A 4,330-pound first-order Fresnel lens, manufactured in 1887 by Barbier & Fenestre of Paris, was assembled in the lantern room, where a kerosene lantern illuminated it for the first time on August 1, 1889. These three rare views measure 5” x 5” overall and provide a rare glimpse of the lantern room and tower, and two views of the tramway stretching down the hillside. Close clear views, only light foxing. One mount with damaged corner. (VG). $168.  

  

23286a. Owl's Head Lighthouse.  Large view c.1900, in early original wooden oval frame. View measures 16" x 20" in 22" x 26" frame. Some wear to gold leaf and black painted frame but would clean up nicely and make a fine display piece. $128. 

26103. (cabinet photo) Seaman, U. S. receiving Ship (U.S.R.S.) Franklin. c.1880-1910. The Franklin, a 5170-ton screw frigate, was built at the Portsmouth Navy Yard, New Hampshire, between 1854 and 1867. Commissioned in June 1867, she served three tours as European Squadron flagship over the next decade. In March 1877, she became the receiving ship at the Norfolk Navy Yard, Virginia. Later housed over and stripped of her masts and spars, Franklin remained in that role until October 1915, when she was decommissioned and sold. This excellent portrait view by photographer J. H. Faber, Norfolk, Va., provides a clear, close view of the young Naval seaman in his winter blue uniform. Clearly visible on his flat hat is “U.S.R.S. Franklin”. 4 ¼” x 6 ½”. Clean, crisp, near fine condition. (VG+). $88.

26109. (early photo album) Plum Island and Newburyport , Massachusetts c.1891-1900. Vintage photo album contains  31  5” X 7” sepiatone vintage photos of the Plum Island , Newburyport coastline and area. The vintage album once held up to 36 photos, and measures approximately 6 1/2" X 9". Blue cover with gilded trim and lettering, beveled edges,  is labeled “Photographs”. Images include: river with arched bridge; large arched stone bridge spanning river (3); remains of shipwreck on the beach; outcropping of rocks, people on rocks, village in background, ocean, boats; .large rocks, ocean, people sitting on rocks; sheep grazing;  2 men with trained bears on the beach; tree lined road and home (4); large trees and tree-lined road (2); fence, horse and cart, boy, home with well digger in yard; log bridge over stream, man on bridge; waterfall, bridge; rock grotto; boy sitting on very large rock formation; stone bridge over water, very calm, reflects; large boulder (2); old barn on hillside; dilapitated building near stream; large trees in field; large boulder outcropping by water, wooden lookout placed on top of rock, pier in background; boy standing by large bent tree; hillside with barn and rocks in field; man asleep in glider swing with man standing. Most photos are clean, flat, a few occasional light tears or a folded corner. (VG-).  $95 (only about $3 each photo).  

 

2696. (painting) John W. Hutchinson Jr. (1940-). HANDKERCHIEF SHOAL LIGHTSHIP NO. 4. c.1987. #547. This is an authentic, signed original water color on artist’s board by Chatham and Cape Ann’s own artist, John Hutchinson. This bright rendition measures 6 inches by 9 inches, framed to 14" x 17" and is signed in the bottom right hand corner by the artist. Light Vessel No. 4 was built in 1855 and served on Handkerchief Shoal at the entrance to Nantucket Sound from 1858 until 1916. “Hutch” has lived for years in Salem on Massachusetts' North Shore and summers at a lovely spot near Chatham Lighthouse on the elbow of Cape Cod. He has become well known for his maritime and pilot boat views, as well as salt marsh and general coastal. Now nearing his sixties Hutch still paints with vengeance. Today John Hutchinson is one of Massachusetts’ best known artists his works have been sold all over the east. Wonderful, bright, in a mat and old frame but could use re-framing. (F).  $248 net. 

Other works by John Hutchinson

Nantucket Freezup - Brant Point. 16" X 28"  $ 2400 

"Gundalows Carrying Hay" (sold)

John Hutchinson is available for commission work as well, for any early maritime scenes that you desire. Lightships, pilot boats, catboats and others a specialty. Please contact us for more information.

 

"The Morning Paper for Boston Lightship" (sold)                                "Springtime on Nantucket" (sold)

2688. (photo negative) Ten Pound Island Light House, Gloucester, Mass. c.1930-50’s. Large format 3” x 5” b/w negative image provides a great, clear, detailed view of the Ten Pound Island Light Station. Great detail includes the dark painted tower, keeper’s dwelling, Fog signal building and much more. Photo print from this negative would be stunning matted and framed. (F).$38.  

21154. [ Columbia Lightship video] Columbia River Lightship – An Exploration Northwest Adventure. 1976. Don McCune Library. This video beautifully illustrates life aboard the Columbia River Lightship in the 1970’s, and Columbia River Bar history. Shot on 16mm color film in 1976. 30 minutes, VHS format. Interviews on board include CWO Elmer A. Stevens, Captain, who noted "You always have the fear of a ship running you down. In foul weather, the visibility drops. There's 90 mile-an-hour winds out there ... a ship bearing down on you. If your radar is out, you're in a terrible fix. [Launching a buoy] is the most dangerous work there is, bar none, in the service. We've had guys get caught between the buoys and the gunwales and get injured. That chain's whipped and broke their legs. There's been several lightships sunk in the fog; the [lightship] Nantucket was sunk and they never found anything. During a storm when the wind picks up over fifty knots, we start our engines up and keep them on one-third ahead to take the strain off the [anchor] chain and we have run forty hours like that."  Video also includes footage of Relief, which replaced the Columbia during schedule maintenance. Interesting one-of-a-kind footage about life on board a lightship. (M).  $15.95.

2674b. (set of slides). Portsmouth, Five Fathom, Barnegat, Huron Lightships c.1970’s. Set of 11 different Kodak photographic slides show great overall views of the four vessels. Nice set, full color. (VG+). $10.  

 

2667. (lithographed print) Ambrose Channel Relief Lightship No. 78Struck by SS Green Bay by Dianna Garrison. Limited edition lithographed print, signed and numbered of 2000 by noted North Carolina artist Dianna Garrison  is a sought after work of art. Originally painted by popular marine artist Dianna Garrison, image is printed on quality stock paper with fade resistant inks. The Relief Lightship No. 78 / WAL 505 was struck and sunk by the freighter SS Green Bay after 4:00am on June 24, 1960 in dense fog. The Freighter SS Green Bay, outbound from New York Harbor in dense fog and zero visibility, collided with the USCG Lightship RELIEF  No. 78 / WAL505 on Ambrose Channel Lightship Station (relieving Ambrose Lightship WLV 613). Relief was rammed amidships on the starboard side, resulting in a jagged hole at least two feet wide extending from the weather deck & narrowing downward towards the keel. The Relief sank on station approximately ten  minutes later. No lives were lost, as all nine crewmen abandoned ship in a inflatable life raft. The overall size is 19.5 x 24 inches, the total image size is 16.5 x 22 inches. Titled in script “The Ambrose channel Relief Lightship moments before the collision with the Freighter Green Bay June 29th 1960.”[official records indicate June 24 as the date of collision]. Beautifully done, would be perfect framed. New, shipped rolled. All prints are signed and numbered by the artist in a limited edition of 2000 prints and are printed on heavy weight paper under the direct supervision of the artist.  (M). $24.95.

 

2631. (photograph) Lighthouse Keeper, Saugerties, New York. c.1905. 3 1/2" x 5 1/2" on AZO paper. Clean, clear, crease one corner. (VG). $188. 

X-03. (copy photograph) Life Saving Station Lookout / Lighthouse, Newport, Oregon. Large 11” x 14” b/w copy photograph taken from a National Archives image provides a great view of the Life Saving Service crew posed at the Newport, Oregon lighthouse on May 14, 1911. The Yaquina Bay Lighthouse is located on a hill overlooking the northern side of the entrance to Yaquina Bay. In April 1871, 36 acres were purchased at the north entrance of the bay and the lighthouse was quickly built. With increased maritime traffic along the Oregon Coast, the Lighthouse Board decided the area would be better served with a coastal light at Yaquina Head, just four miles north. The completion of Yaquina Head Light in 1873 eliminated the need for the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse. On October 1, 1874, the light was extinguished and the fifth-order Fresnel lens was transferred to the Yerba Buena Light station in San Francisco Bay, where it was lit in 1875. The house remained empty for years until in 1906, the U.S. Lifesaving Service quartered a crew in the house and constructed a lookout station nearby. It was used for this purpose by the U.S. Lifesaving Service and then the U.S. Coast Guard until 1933 when it was again abandoned. Wonderful clear, close view provides great detail, perfect for framing. 

Other National Archives images available include: Cape Argo [Arago] Light Station, Cape Blanco Light Station, Desbemona Lighthouse, Mukilteo Light Station, Cape Mears Lighthouse, Tillamook Rock Light Station, Yaquina Head Light Station, North Head Lighthouse, Bandon Oregon Lighthouse, Cape Disappointment Lighthouse and Fort Canby, Lighthouse and Shipwreck Port Townsend, and more.  

Prices $28 and up. Please inquire.  

(photo collection ) Ambrose Lightship WLV-613. Collection of four official US Coast Guard photographs and newspaper article show the Ambrose on station, crew photograph of her last crew, construction of her replacement tower and a completed view of the Ambrose tower. Also included is a 1967 page from the Staten Island Advance newspaper detailing the tower construction process. Close, clear b/w  8” x 10” views. (VG+). $88.

  

  2428cb. (photograph) "Another Lighthouse", [PEMAQUID POINT LIGHTHOUSE] by Lowell Miller. c.1940’s. This is a fantastic vintage 1940's black and white photograph that was done by a wonderful photographer named Lowell Miller. He graduated at the Rochester Institute of Technology during the 1930's and later worked out of his studio in Rochester . This print measures 10 ½” x 13 ½” and is entitled, "Another Lighthouse". It is in excellent condition. The mat board that it is affixed to has corner edge wear, but nothing distractive or damaging to the print itself. There is a label on the back that shows where it was entered in the Newcastle Upon Tyne Exhibition, Midland Salon of Photography, Worcestershire Camera Club Salon of Photography ~ 1953.  (VG+). $88 net.

24118. (photograph) U. S. Lighthouse Service Tender Greenbrier. c. 1930’s. Clear, crisp photograph of the U. S. Lighthouse Tender Greenbrier somewhere on the lower Ohio or Kanawha River. Designed for service as a river tender, the Greenbrier was constructed in 1922 and homeported in Cincinnati, Ohio in the Fourteenth LHD. Photo is quite small but is quite clean and enlarges nicely. 2” x 1 ½”. (VG+). $18.

 

  Additional Lighthouse Service Tender photos available. 

24124. (photograph) Pigeon Point Lighthouse, California. c.1870. Perched on a cliff on the central California coast, the 115-foot Pigeon Point Lighthouse, one of the tallest lighthouses in America, has been guiding mariners since 1872. Its five-wick lard oil lamp, and first-order Fresnel lens, was first lit at sunset, November 15, 1872. The lens stands 16 feet tall, 6 feet in diameter, and weighs 8,000 pounds. It sits in a lantern room that had been constructed at the Lighthouse Service's general depot in New York before being shipped around the Horn. Although the original Fresnel lens is no longer in use, the lighthouse is still an active U.S. Coast Guard aid to navigation using a 24 inch Aero Beacon. This early c.1870’s image was intended for a stereoview and is cut with rounded upper corners. It shows good detail – a nice clear image. 3” x 3” Light foxing. (VG-). $88 net.  

26167. [cabinet photograph] c.1900. Original portrait photograph, of a U. S. Coast Guard Surfman. This rare posed portrait photograph shows the young surfman proudly posing in his 4-button single-breasted uniform coat. Clearly visible on his collars are the life ring with crossed oars bronze insignia, and his uniform cap with “U. S. Coast Guard” clearly visible on the band. The image measures 4” x 6” and is in original folder. Photo is clear, and crisp, one of the better images we have had in some time. It is exceptionally rare to see such photos of surfmen in any format. (VG+). $145 net.  

26169. (photo) Saybrook Breakwater Lighthouse, Connecticut c.1968. Extremely clear, close b/w photograph of the caisson style Saybrook Breakwater Lighthouse, Connecticut. In the 1870s two parallel stone jetties were built protecting the harbor of Old Saybrook and a deep channel was dredged between them. Saybrook Breakwater Light was first lighted at the end of the west jetty on June 15, 1886. The 49-foot cast-iron tower has a basement, four main floors, a watchroom and a lantern room. More stones were eventually added to the breakwater making it possible to walk to the lighthouse, but waves washed over the rocks and in the winter the breakwater was often covered with ice. On the afternoon of September 21, 1938, Keeper Sidney watched  as a light southeast breeze sprung up from a perfect calm. As the skies darkened and the winds increased, Keeper Gross and Assistant Keeper Bennett attempted to secure the station. By 4:00 p.m. the bridge from the lighthouse to the breakwater was swept away, as were the platform around the lighthouse and a rowboat. The two keepers boarded up the window to the engine room, but the waves smashed right through and flooded the room. The keepers stayed in the lantern room all through the night of what would be forever remembered as the Hurricane of ’38. They kept the light going even as they feared that the lighthouse wouldn't last the night. In the morning Gross surveyed the damage and entered in the log: "Everything swept away by hurricane except the tower." Saybrook Breakwater Light was automated in 1959 and it continues to flash a green light as an active aid to navigation. Close view provides great detail of the tower and fog horns as a Coast Guardsman makes repairs on the lower gallery. Clean, light wear. Labeled on back Photo Researchers print “a Carr” , Summer 1968… (VG).  $32.

26137. [original glass plate negative] Life Saving Service Landing the Surfboat. c. 1900-1915. Wonderful glass plate slide bears a full color photo image of the keeper and surfmen ashore with their surfboat as a finely dressed Victorian woman looks on. Clearly visible on the surfboat is the “U. S. Life Saving Service” marking. Nice view of the keeper and men. (VG).  $68 net.  

2685. (glass mounted slide set, Massachusetts & East Coast) Set of 98 early large format 2 ¾” x 2 ¾” glass mounted projection slides in metal mounts, complete with fine Brumberger metal storage case. Case is filled with 98 large glass slides from 1951. Subjects include Nantucket Island including Sankaty LH, Brant Point, Main Street, windmill, harbor scenes, Nauset LH, Chatham LH, Truro, Provincetown, Hartford Ct,  Ocean City Md., family views, Boston views and more. (VG). $36.

26107h. [photograph] c.1900. Original cabinet photograph of an early two-part beach apparatus cart at the Brenton Point Life Saving Station, Rhode Island. This rare image shows the two-part beach apparatus cart, nicely labeled on the side BRENTON POINT. On the carts can be seen the beach apparatus equipment including the breeches buoy, faking box, reels of hawser, traveler block, tripods, and more. The image measures 3 ½”  x 4 ¼” on a 4 ¼” x 5 ¼”  original mat. Photo is clear, and crisp, but has lost contrast over time. Still, one of the very few images that we have found of this style of beach apparatus cart in any format. (VG-).    $165 net.  

  

24293. (photo). Chandeleur Lighthouse, Louisiana. c.1870. Built in 1848, only the light tower remains today. This rare view shows the keeper’s house and walkway as well with the keepers looking on. 4” x 6” on original mat, some wear and soiling but still a close, clear view. (G+). $58.</