Curio

State Library of New South Wales
Studios of American & Australasian Photographic Company, Tambaroora St., Hill End, (proprietor Beaufoy Merlin) showing members of the staff (3 figures on right) and passers-by

Studios of American & Australasian Photographic Company, Tambaroora St., Hill End, (proprietor Beaufoy Merlin) showing members of the staff (3 figures on right) and passers-by

1872
Glass photonegative

The American and Australasian Photographic Company established a studio in Tambaroora Street, Hill End, in 1872. Beaufoy Merlin’s assistant, Charles Bayliss, stands, hands in pockets, in the doorway, with studio operator James Clinton behind him. Among the group of curious miners who have chosen to be part of the tableau is the driver of Merlin’s outdoor photographic van, to Bayliss’ right.

From the Australian Town and Country Journal, 11 May 1872

We have been favoured with an inspection of nearly 100 magnificent photographic views, illustrating various scenes in Hill End and its vicinity, including the most celebrated claims on Hawkins' Hill, executed by Mr. BeaufoyMerlin, and which for clearness and perspicuity have never been excelled... The whole series comprise a valuable as well as an interesting collection portraying the extensive mining  operations as at present existing, and which are exciting such unbounded interest in the public mind. The demand for those splendid photographs will, we hope, reimburse the spirited artist for the great difficulties undergone and expense incurred in carrying out his object in so mountainous and broken a country. [Australian Town and Country Journal, 11 May 1872, p17]