1870’s Stereoview Lincoln Monument, Philadelphia, by Robert Newell. Image shows Lincoln Monument, with a seated Abraham Lincoln. This is an early photo of the Lincoln Monument at Fairmont Park, Philadelphia shown at its first location of Lemon Hill Drive and Kelly Drive. The monument was designed by American artist Randolph Rogers, and dedicated in 1871. A mixed race group of 12 men are visiting the monument, two in a carriage. Most of the men in the photo are Black, three in gray uniform/ suits and wearing kepi hats. Each holds a sword and they all have a badge or medal on their lapels; perhaps they are Civil War vets.
Lincoln is shown signing the Emancipation Proclamation.
The statue is about 8.67 ft height, 4 ft width, and 8 ft length.
Lincoln’s figure is twice-life-size and fabricated in bronze
Back: “Photographed by R. Newell & Co. 626 Arch St. Philadelphia. Lincoln Monument.” And in red ink: “2598”
The dealer writes: “Robert Newell (1822-1897) made his entry in the photography arena in 1855 starting out at 724 Arch Street then moving to 626 in 1865 when he was joint shortly afterwords by his son, Henry. He was an early innovator with his own traveling studio/darkroom giving him an edge for making such an extensive record of Philadelphia, the surrounds and its citizens.”