Connection: Drogheda portraits from the 1860s and after

I’m delighted to have a selection of my collection of 19^th century carte-de-visites from Drogheda on display in the town’s public library for Culture Night, the 18^th of September. The exhibition, which continues for two weeks, is part of wider themed programme entitled Connection curated by Brian Hegarty.

Carte-de-visite by Weston Bros, Drogheda, 1880s

The photographs show inhabitants of the town and were mainly taken in the 1860s and 1870s by the following studios: Charles Farley; Weston Brothers; George W. Neill and Payne & Cuddy. All occupied prime locations on the town’s main streets. The existence of these photos dispels the idea that photography was only available to the very rich in Ireland. The carte-de-visite process produced small inexpensive portraits (54mm x 89mm) and its introduction generated a rise in the number of photographic studios in cities and towns across the world (including Ireland). The fact that Drogheda sustained several photographic studios, from the mid-nineteenth century on, means that there was a wide customer base for these portraits. The price of 7 shillings and 6 pence for a dozen carte-de-visite was equivalent to that for a cough bottle, a third-class train journey or a child’s petticoat (as per Drogheda newspapers).

Carte-de-visite by C.T. Farley, Drogheda, ca.1870

Charles Farley announced that he was to offer the carte-de-visite process from May 1864 with several adverts appearing in the Drogheda Conservative newspaper. Over the years he was based at several locations in the town including 11 West Street at Doctor Grey’s Medical Hall before moving to 8 Lawrence Street. George W. Neill also had a studio at the Lawrence Street address in the 1880s.

Here are some of the images and they show some very stylish individuals reflecting all the fashion trends of 1860s, ‘70s and ‘80s such as bustles, crinolines, feathered hats, top hats and button boots. The backs of the cards also show novel designs and details.

Carte-de-visite by C.T. Farley, Drogheda, ca. 1865

Carte-de-visite by Weston Bros., Drogheda, ca. 1880

C.T. Farley, Drogheda, verso of carte-de-visite, 1870

I have also included below an account of an event that was attended by the photographer Charles T. Farley giving a flavour of life in the town during the period.

Drogheda Conservative, 20^th December 1873, p. 3

“Band of Hope Meeting in Drogheda – A reunion meeting of the Drogheda branch of this society, in connection with the Wesleyan Church was held on Wednesday evening in the School-Room, Lawrence Street. The attendance of friends and members was large, and fully demonstrated the extensive spread of the principles espoused by the admirable society in our town. After tea, &c. had been partaken of, readings and recitations were given by some members. Mr Charles Farley, exhibited a choice selection of dissolving  views, which added much to the enjoyment of the meeting. A number of Temperance melodies were sung with nice effect during the evening. The Misses Creaser and Plunkett presided on the harmonium.”