Hendee, Denny H. (Portland)

Hendee, Denny H. (1826-1907)
Chronology
1847-1849 New York
1849-1853 San Francisco and Sonora CA
1853 Portland
1853 Oregon City
1853-1854 Salem
1854 Albany
1854 Corvallis
1854 Portland
1854 or 1855 LaFayette
1854 or 1855 Forest Grove
1855-1856 Portland
1856-1859 Oroville CA
ca.1859-1861 Shoal Water Bay
ca.1859-1861 St. Helens
ca.1859-1861 Vancouver WA
1861-1892 Portland
Hendee apparently traveled to Portland in the steerage, since his name is not on passenger arrival lists for the week of June 10, 1853.
On 4 October 1866, he advertised he had nearly 20 years experience as a photographer.
His career spanned the first 60 years of photography, of which 50 were spent here in Portland.
He is buried at Lone Fir Cemetery, where his son was employed as a concrete worker.
Many Hendee pictures have problems with fading now, which is probably the result of inadequate washing. In 1866 he advertised card pictures could be finished in ten minutes.
Employee Listings
Dolson, Charles 1864
Hack, Truman 1864
Bellay, Francis 1866
Directory Listings
1863 PD pg. 33 “Hendee, D. H. artist. 107 1/2 Front, res 139 Second.” plus display ad pg. 58 quoted below. (Note Woodard, A. B., is same address)
1864 PD pg. 13 “Hendee, D. H., Photographer, 107 1/2 Front” (listing is in the business directory, but is absent under alphabetical listings, an error of omission. His display ad shows his removal to new location at Parrish’s New Brick, corner of Front and Washington Streets) (Dolson, Charles listed as clerk at 107 Front in 1864)
1865 PD pg. 51 “Hendee, D. H. photographer Parrish building Washington, res S W cor First and Market”
1865 East Cascades Directory pg. 184 Portland photograph galleries “Hendee, D. H., corner Front & Washington”
1866 PD pg. 53 “Hendee, D. H., photographic gallery Parrish Building, Washington, res cor First and Market.”
1867 PD pg. 55 “Hendee, D. H., photographic gallery, cor First and Morrison”
1868 PD pg. 55 “Hendee, D. H., photographer, 117 First”
1869 PD pg. 61 “Hendee, D.H. photographer. SW cor First and Morrison”
1871 PD pg. 59 “Hendee, D. H., photographer, cor First and Morrison”
1872 PD pg. 79 “Hendee, D. H., photographer, NW cor First and Morrison”
1873 PD pg. 139 “Hendee, D. H., photographer, w s First, bet Morrison and Yamhill”
1873 SD pg. 186 “Hendee, D. H., photographer, s w cor First and Morrison, res same”
1873 Or pg. 321 Portland “Hendee, D. H. cor First and Morrison photograph gallery”
1874 PD pg. 120 “Hendee, D. H., photograph artist, s w cor First and Morrison, res
1874 SD pg. 195 “Hendee, D. H., photographer, s w cor First and Morrison, res same”
1875 SD and PD not listed
1877 PD pg. 105 “Hendee, D. H., photograph gallery, res and rms First bet Yamhill and Morrison”
1878 PD pg. 104 “Hendee, D. H., photographer, w s First bet Morrison and Yamhill, res same”
1878 Pacific pg. 220 Portland “Hendee, D. H., photographer, 127 First”
1879 pg. 122 “Hendee, D. H., photographer, w s First, bet Morrison and Yamhill, res same”
1880 PD pg. 139 “Hendee, D. H., photographer, bds Occidental”
1881 not listed (Otho is listed as clerk)
1882 PD pg. 430 East Portland “Hendee, D. H., photographer, res I n s bet Fourth and Fifth, res same”
1884 POWI pg. 138 East Portland “Hendee, Denny H, photographer, I (street)”
1884 GD not listed
1884 PD pg. 333 East Portland “Hendee, D. H., artist, gallery I bet Fourth and Fifth, res same”
1885 PCD pg. 452 East Portland “Hendee, Denny H, photographer n s I 5 e of 4th, res w s 3d bet G and H.”
1886 PCD pg. 502 East Portland”Hendee Denny H, photographer n s I 5 e of 4th, res w s 3d 2 n of H.”
1886 Pacific Coast pg. 1000 East Portland “Hendee, D. H., photographer, I bet Fourth and Fifth”
1887 PCD pg. 518 East Portland”Hendee Denny H, photographer n s I bet 4th and 5th, res w s 3d bet G and H.”
1888 PCD pg. 291 “Hendee Denny A, photographer, res 456 5th.”
1889 PCD pg. 298 “Hendee Denny H, photographer, res 456 5th.”
1890 PCD pg. 281 “Hendee Denny H, photographer, res 456 5th.”
1891 PCD pg. 345 “Hendee Dennis H, photographer, res 456 5th.”
1892 PCD pg. 509 “Hendee Denny H, photographer, res 456 5th.”
1893 PCD pg. 480 “Hendee Denny H, res 456 5th.”
1894 PCD pg. 405 “Hendee Denny H, res 456 5th.”
1895 PCD pg. 367 “Hendee, Denny H, photographer, res 456 5th”
1896 PCD pg. 337 “Hendee Denny H, res 456 5th.”
1897 PCD pg. 329 “Hendee, Denny H, res 456 5th
1898 PCD pg. 341 “Hendee Denny H, res 456 5th.”
1899 PCD pg. 354 “Hendee Denny H, res 456 5th.”
1900 PCD pg. 369 “Hendee Denny H, res 456 5th.”
1901 PCD pg. 358 “Hendee, Denny H res 456 5th”
1902 PCD pg. 450 “Hendee, Dennie H res 456 5th”
1903 PCD pg. 418 “Hendee, Denny H res 456 5th”
1904 PCD pg. 471 “Hendee, Denny H res 456 5th”
1905 PCD pg. 523 “Hendee, Denny H res 456 5th”
1906 PCD pg. 531 “Hendee, Dennie H, photog, res 456 5th”
Mautz Oregon “Hendee, D. H., 1870-1885, East Portland”, “Hendee, E. L., 1890, Portland”
Photographer’s Imprints
“D. H. Hendee, Artist, No. 107 1/2 Up Stairs, Front Street, Portlad (sic), Ogn.” CDV printed back with patriotic emblem (OHS collection, 875 Pope) this dates from before 1864.
“D. H. Hendee, Artist, Portland, Or.” rubber stamp back CDV
Overprint: “D. H. Hendee, Artist, Portland, Or” stamped over Bosco & Megler imprint.
“D. H. Hendee, Photographer. I Street bwt 4 & 5th. East Portland, Ogn.” rubber stamp on cabinet back.
Reinhart (The American Daguerreotype, pg. 394) reports a daguerreotype ca. 1857, with stamp on brass preserver mat “J. S. Hendee”
News Items and Advertisements
1853: “Mr. Hendee, late from San Francisco, California having taken the old room formerly occupied by Mr. Wakefield, would respectfully inform the citizens of Portland and community generally, that he is now prepared to execute Daguerreotype Likenesses in all the late improved styles, with coloring almost equal to life itself. He has also a large stock of beautiful Cases and Frames; also a number of fine specimens of California mining views which are well worth the trouble of calling to examine. Entrance to the room, No. 2 Canton House, up stairs. Rooms open from 7 o’clock A. M. to 7 o’clock P. M. June 23, 1853” Oregon Weekly Times, (Portland) 25 June – 2 July 1853, the next issue appended “P. S.- Persons having old pictures can have them re-taken in the same case, at very low rates.” Oregon Weekly Times, (Portland) 19 July – 1853, another amendment “No pictures taken on Sunday” Oregon Weekly Times, (Portland) 6 August 1853, another amendment “NOTICE any persons in Portland wishing to get pictures, will please call immediately, as the artist expects to go up the river soon. August 23d, 1853″ Oregon Weekly Times, (Portland) 27 August – 15 October 1853
1853: CALL AND SEE THE PICTURES. Mr. Hendee has lately come from California with his wife with the intention of making Portland his future residence, and would respectfully announce to the people of Portland and vicinity, that he is now prepared to execute DAGUERREOTYPE LIKENESSES in all the late improved styles, and also in all kinds of weather. Gentlemen and ladies please call and examine specimens of California mining views and a variety of other pictures. Persons having old pictures that are not satisfactory to their wishes, can have one put in the same case at a very low price. Rooms newly fitted up in the Canton House. Operating hours from 8 o’clock A. M to 6 P. M. July 16, ’53” Weekly Oregonian, July 16 – 3 September 1853
1853: “Mr. Hendee, Daguerreotypist, is in town and has taken a room in the second story of the building occupied by Messrs. Sawyer & Milwain; entrance in the rear on Third street. He has some of the finest pictures we have seen in Oregon, taken by himself. He is an old operator and keeps pace with all the improvements in his profession. His workmanship speaks for itself; it needs no commendation from any person.” Oregon Spectator, 13 October 1853, pg. 3, col. 1.
1853: “Daguerreotypes, Mr. Hendee, Daguerrian Artist, will visit Salem sometime in November, and remain during the sitting of the Legislature. He has been in the business and in constant practice nearly eight years in the Eastern States and California and will warrant satisfaction. Prices varying from five to twenty-five dollars. October 25, 1853” Oregon Statesman (Salem) 25 October -27 December 1853.
1853: “In Town. Mr. Hendee, has opened his daguerrean rooms in the building opposite Cooke’s Hotel, where he is prepared to take likenesses at all hours of the day. It is best to call however between the hours of 10 and 4 o’clock, as the light is best then. Nov. 15. Any person bringing a party of five for pictures will be furnished one for himself free.” Oregon Statesman (Salem) 15 November – 27 December 1853.
1853: “Daguerrean Rooms. Mr. Hendee is now occupying rooms over May & Robb’s store, where he has prepared a large sky-light which enables him to take good daguerreotype likenesses in all kinds of weather. The people of Salem and vicinity who wish to get likenesses will please call soon as Mr. H. has but a short time to stay in Salem. He will return to Portland to spend the summer, after visiting Albany and Corvallis. Large family groups will receive prompt attention and liberal deductions in price. Persons wishing to get good likenesses, will please call in the middle part of the day, as the light is much stronger at that time. All parties of five persons, or more, will receive one picture free. Salem, Dec. 26th, 1853.” Oregon Statesman (Salem) 27 December 1853 – 3 January 1854.
1853: “DAGUERREOTYPES, MR. HENDEE, DAGUERREAN ARTIST, Will visit Oregon City on the 10th of October, when an opportunity will be had for all persons in that vicinity to get a likeness taken by an experienced operator- one who has been in the business eighth years. He has been all through California, and has been in Oregon since June last. He has a large assortment of splendid frames and cases, large and small, varying in price from $5 to $25.
He will visit Champoeg on the 20th of November, and Salem on the 1st of December.
All pictures taken, warranted to give general satisfaction. Portland, September 23, 1853. ” Oregon Spectator, 13 October 1853 -7 January 1854.
1853: “Daguerrean Rooms. MR. HENDEE is now occupying (sic) rooms over May & Robb’s store, where he has prepared a large sky-light which enables him to take good daguerreotype likenesses in all kinds of weather. The people of Salem and vicinity who wish to get likenesses will please call soon as Mr. H. has but a short time to stay in Salem. He will return to Portland to spend the summer, after visiting Albany and Corvallis. Large family groups will receive prompt attention and liberal deductions in price. Persons wishing to get good likenesses, will please call in the middle part of the day, as the light is much stronger at that time. All parties of five persons, or more, will receive on picture free. Salem, Dec. 26th, 1853.” The Oregon Statesman, (Salem), 27 December 1853 – 31 January 1854
1854: report of the first trip of the Gazelle on her first trip to Corvallis. the passengers were invited guests, and entertainment was provided. List of passengers: “Ladies… Hendee …”, “Gentlemen …D. H. Hendee…” Oregon Statesman, 28 March 1854. (actual date of arrival 21 March)
1854: “(same text as above dated 27 Dec. 1853, with appended:) In order to give all an opportunity of obtaining the likeness of themselves and family, the artist will take in pay all kinds of stock, such as Chickens, Hogs, Sheep, Cattle, or Horses.
Likenesses taken in groups from one to twelve as they wish, prices varying from $5 to $50.
Rooms open Monday, Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday of each week.
Salem, March 24, 1854” Oregon Statesman (Salem) 28 March – 2 May 1854.
1854: “Mr. Hendee is now prepared to take Daguerreotype Likenesses for all who may desire them. He will take them suited to all the different sizes which may be wished for.
In order to give all an opportunity of obtaining the likeness of themselves and family, the artist will take in pay all kinds of stock, such as Chickens, Hogs, Sheep, Cattle, or Horses.
Likenesses taken in groups from one to twelve as they wish, prices varying from $5 to $50.
Rooms over May & Robb’s store, open Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday of each week.
Salem, March 21, 1854” Oregon Statesman (Salem) 24 March 1854. pg. 3, col. 3.
1855: “DAGUERREAN ROOMS. MR. HENDEE has just received a large stock of all the latest styles of Daguerreotype Frames and Cases, from New York, and will insure a likeness put up in as good a style as can be had in any of the Atlantic cities. Rooms fitted up with a large sky-light, in the building in the rear of the Columbian Hotel. Pictures taken as well in cloudy and rainy weather as in clear, except for children. The best time for children is between the hours of 10 A. M., and 2 P. M. Nov. 3d, 1855. Oregon Weekly Times, (Portland) 3 November 1855. – 8 March 1856.
1862: “JUST ARRIVED – MR. HENDEE has arrived from San Francisco with a new assortment of frames and cases, and is now prepared to take CARD PICTURES and other PHOTOGRAPHS in all the latest approved styles, and at San Francisco prices. He has made improvements in his Light and Rooms, and will warrant all his work. D. H. Hendee, Portland, August 20th, 1862” Oregonian, 21 August – 3 October 1862
1863: “Hendee’s Ambrotype and Photograph Gallery, 107 1/2 Front Street, (Opposite the Post Office). Mr. Hendee is now prepared to take all kinds of Pictures known to the Art, on the shortest notice and in as good style as can be had on this Coast, at the lowest prices.” Portland Directory for 1863, Portland; S. J. McCormick 1863, pg. 58 display ad
1863: “Ambrotypes, &c. D. H. Hendee, Artist, in the rooms in the same building with J. H. Mitchell, esq., Dr. Glenn, and Prof. Sedlak, Front Street, Portland, Will take pictures on paper, oilcloth, and iron, put up in lockets, rings, pins, and a large variety of cameos at a much lower price than ever sold in Portland. The best time for taking pictures of children is between 10 AM and 1 PM.” Oregonian, 31 October 1863 – 22 March 1864
1864: “Special Notice. D. H. Hendee, Photographist, Has removed from his old place of business into New and Elegant Rooms In Parrish’s New Brick, corner of Front and Washington Streets, here he is better prepared to accommodate all, both old and young, with pictures of all kinds than any other establishment in this city. Special attention given to taking Children and Family Groups.” Portland Directory for 1864, Portland; S. J. McCormick 1864 pg. 87
1864: “Arrival of the Pacific (steamship)…left San Francisco on Sunday…Passenger list…Hendee…” Oregonian, 11 February 1864, pg. 3, col. 1
1864: “A CURIOSITY – Mr. D. H. Hendee, of this city, left a twig of an apple branch at our office which is a thing quite out of the ordinary course of nature, and is extraordinary as to excite some wonder. It has upon it the ripe fruit of the present season’s fruit, and full blossoms for a second crop. The is of the Rambo variety” Oregonian, 20 October 1864, pg. 3, col. 1
1864: “SPECIAL NOTICE: D. H. Hendee, Photographist, Has removed from his old place of business into New and Elegant Rooms in Parrish’s New Brick, corner of Front and Washington streets, where he is better prepared to accommodate all, both old and young, with Pictures of All Kinds than any other establishment in the city. Special attention given to taking Children and Family Groups. Portland, Nov 7th, 1864.” Oregonian, 7 November – 30 November 1864
1865: “PHOTOGRAPHIC GALLERY – Mr. Hendee is doing excellent work in the way of photographs, and has probably as perfect conveniences for the business as can be found in the State. His rooms are in the third story of Parish’s block, entrance on Washington street, and as they were arranged and fitted up expressly for his need, he has no excuse for not taking the best kind of pictures. Specimens that have come under our consideration are equal to any known to us.” Oregonian, 9 March 1865, pg. 3, col. 1
1865: “MR. HENDEE has returned from San Francisco, and will take a new style of card picture for the holidays, that can be finished in ten minutes. Price, 75 cents each” Oregonian, 22 December (first insertion)- 29 December (last insertion) 1865
1866: “NOVEL INVENTION- Mr. Hendee of the photograph gallery, on Washington street, in Parrish’s building, has invented a new and somewhat novel method of taking pictures, which will be of great benefit to artists, inasmuch as it will enable them to take, in an ordinary camera, as many negatives as they desire at one sitting of the subject, from which to print the pictures. We have seen it tried, and while it is an once both simple and effective we are surprised that it was never thought of before. He has applied for a patent for his invention. Read the advertisement.” Oregonian, 16 April 1866, pg. 3, col. 1.
1866: “SOMETHING NEW AND NOVEL- A PATENT APPLIED FOR- Mr. Hendee has invented an article by which he can take any number of Head Pictures on the same plate without the subject getting up from the chair; can get different positions of the face and all sizes of heads, can put a half dozen heads on the space of a half dollar: can put a whole family of heads on the space of a common size card, and will sell pictures cheaper than any other Gallery on this coast. Has the process for taking the new and beautiful style picture called the Porcelain or Sun Pearl, so much talked of in San Francisco, also has engaged a man from that place who has been making those pictures in San Francisco. Mr. H. is now prepared to do as good work and in as great variety of style as any Gallery in Portland. Orders for full portrait size of photographs will be promptly attended to.” Oregonian, 16 April – 15 May 1866 (prime suspect is Francis Bellay)
1866: “Hendee’s Photograph Gallery. The only place in Portland where you are sure of getting No. 1 Pictures at all times, is at Hendee’s Gallery, corner First and Morrison Streets, where he is well prepared to do all kinds of work as well as any Gallery in Oregon, and will guarantee as good satisfaction for all his work as can be had in the State. Pictures of every kind can be had at short notice. Old Pictures can be copied, enlarged, and retouched in India Ink, or Oil Colors, at low prices than any other place.” unidentified 1866 newspaper advertisement.
1866: “How Natural, and yet how agreeable it is to enjoy the comforts of a good bed to rest his or her weary limbs upon, and I can say from experience that there is no style of bed that compares with the MOULTON SPRING BED BOTTOM, BROMLEY’S PATENT, for Health and Comfort, Durability and Cheapness; can be attached to any bedstead and does not get out of order. The model of this bed bottom can be seen at HENDEE’S PHOTOGRAPH GALLERY, and orders taken for all that may wish to purchase; Also, the full size bed in working order can be seen and had on short notice at Mr. Wilcox’s Furniture Store, on Front street, near the bridge. Price- Double-Bed, $10; Single-Bed, $7.
Mr. Hendee will take by his New Invention Head Pictures for $3 00 per dozen. Will be at his Rooms from 9 A.M. to 1 P.M.” Oregonian, 3 May – 3 June 1866
1866: “CHANGE OF LOCALITY – The Photograph business of Mr. Hendee has been removed to rooms on the south-west corner of First and Morrison streets, over Shanahan & Dufrene. See advertisement” Oregonian, 22 September 1866 pg. 3, col. 1
1866: “CHANGE OF LOCALITY – MR. HENDEE HAS REMOVED HIS PLACE of business in Photographic Art to Newly fitted and Nicely Furnished Rooms on the S. W. corner of First and Morrison street, opposite the Western Hotel, where he is as well prepared to suit his customers as any gallery in the city, and will guarantee as good work as con be had on this coast. Children under 5 years old must come before two o’clock P. M. to insure good pictures.” Oregonian, 22 September – 9 October 1866
1866: “COLOR OF DRESS – Mr. Hendee, having removed his Photographic Rooms to the corner of First and Morrison streets is prepared to furnish all who may favor him with a call with useful information relative to color of dress for taking card pictures. See advertisement.” Oregonian, 4 October 1866 pg. 3, col. 2
1866: “COLOR OF DRESS – HOW MANY ARE THERE IN THIS CITY OF fashion that are well posted in regard to color of dress to wear for a CARD PICTURE that is becoming and gives the finest effect. For the benefit of those who are not informed on the subject, MR. HENDEE, who is well posted by an experience of nearly 20 years in the art of photography, will inform all those who will call at his NEW GALLERY on the CORNER OF FIRST AND MORRISON STREETS over Shanahan & Dufrene’s music store opposite the Western Hotel.” Oregonian, 4 – 11 October 1866
1866: “TAKE NOTICE THAT MR. HENDEE is on hands at all hours of the day, and can put up as good work and as great a variety of styles as any gallery in this city or elsewhere, and can suit his customers to any style or number of Cards, Ambrotypes, Ferrotypes, SUN PEARLS, and the wonderful Star Picture, that dazzles the eye to behold it! Prices to suit any person, high or low, rich or poor. Don’t forget the place AT HENDEE’S NEW GALLERY Over Shanahan & Dufrene’s music store, Opposite the Western Hotel, Corner of First and Morrison Streets.” Oregonian, 12 October- 4 December 1866
1866: “A Word to the People in the Country. If you wish to get any kind of Picture taken of yourself or friends, there is not a place in Oregon where you can do better in regard to price or superioriey of work than at Hendee’s N. Y. Photograph Gallery on the corner of First and Morrison streets, opposite the Western Hotel, Portland, Oregon.
Mr. H. is the oldest Operator on the Pacific Coast; has had 21 years constant practice, and will guarantee all of his work to be equal to any in this State. Pictures taken from the smallest size up to full life; and old Pictures retaken and enlarged, retouched in India Ink or Color.” Forest Grove Monthly, March 1868

1867: “Photographs! John A. Winberg, late of New York, Informs the Public that He has Taken the Gallery formerly occupied by Hendee, corner of First and Morrison Streets, and is now prepared to furnish Photographs, Sun Pearls, &c., In the latest style of the art. He asks that a portion of the public patronage be extended to him. He promises that his work will not be excelled on the coast. Particular attention paid to taking Pictures of Children.” Morning Oregonian, May 22, 1867, pg. 1, col. 1.

1873: “Hendee, D. H., Photographic Artist, S.W. corner First and Morrison streets. Children’s pictures specialty” Weekly Oregon Statesman, (Salem) 4 Feb 1873 regular advertisement, dates not tracked yet)
1873: “Losses (fire of Aug. 2, 1873)…D. H. Hendee, photographer, damaged by removal…” Oregonian, 4 August 1873, pg. 3, col. 6,
1873: “Losses and insurance…revised list…great fire of Aug. 2, 1873…the following persons have sustained losses by reason of removals and from water…D. H. Hendee, photographer, 500 (dollars loss)…”Oregonian, 8 August 1873, pg. 3, col. 3.
1874: “LAST NIGHT’S FIRE.- Last night, about 10:30 o’clock, the city’s clock bell tapped an alarm. Fire was discovered in a two-story wooden building, standing near the corner of Morrison and First streets. When first discovered by officer Beardon, who gave the alarm, the fire was at the rear end of the building, in the second story. It had just started. As soon as possible the engines were on the ground, and ready to combat the element. But for some reason a long delay occurred before the engines could be brought into action. Meantime the fire spread with fearful strides, and before a stream of water was directed against it the whole roof was in flames. For some reason the Department seemed to work under great disadvantage, and the fire was allowed to cross over to the large wooden building which stands north at the corner. The building in which the fire originated was occupied by J. Fleischner as a boot and shoe store. Ere the fire had got much headway a number of men began to move the goods, and succeeded in saving at least three-fourths of the entire stock. Mr. Hendee, who occupies the second story of the corner building as a photographic gallery, suffers a total loss. His son lives on the same floor, was asleep at the time, and barely escaped. So rapidly did the fire travel, and so tardily the Department appeared to work, that Mr. Hendee was unable to save scarcely a single article, either of his stock or instruments. He was compelled to leave his vest containing his watch. … Mr. Hendee had but a light insurance…” Oregonian, 7 September 1864, pg. 3, col. 3.
1874: “LOSSES AND INSURANCE.- The losses and insurance of the fire on Sunday evening are as follows: … Mr. Hendee, who occupied the second story, over Mr. Pease’s store, lost everything, and was not insured for a dollar. His loss will not be far short of $2,000 …” Oregonian, 8 September 1864, pg. 3, col. 1.
1875: “Hotel Arrivals…National Hotel…D. H. Hendee, Milwaukie…” (the previous day was a large fire consuming many rooming houses located several blocks from his studio) Oregonian, 5 January 1875, pg. 3, col. 3
1875: “Mr. D. H. Hendee, of this city, is the manufacturing agent of the ‘Infallible Fire Kindler’, one of the neatest and most useful contrivances for lighting fires in use. The cook who uses one is sure to never get out of humor starting the fire.” Portland Bee, 14 December 1875.
1876: “CENTENNIAL OPENING, Mr. Hendee is at his old business again. He has bought out the BOSCO & MEGLER GALLERY, on First street, between Morrison and Yamhill, and is now ready to make PICTURES of all kinds at cheap prices. Call and see us everybody.” Oregonian, 28 June 1876 (first insertion) pg. 2 col. 2.
1876: “Go to Hendee’s Gallery and get your picture taken and buy one of his new Gem Albums.” Daily Bee (Portland) 22 September 1876, pg. 3, col. 2.
1876: “D. H. Hendee, known as a photographer, can be found at the gallery formerly occupied by Bosco & Megler, First Street, between Morrison and Yamhill. He is prepared to carry on the business in its every department. See card in this issue” The Daily Bee, (Portland) 28 June 1876 pg. 4, col. 1
1876: “Returned. Mr. D. H. Hendee Has returned to the city again after nearly two years’ absence in the country, and can be found at his old business- TAKING PICTURES- in the Gallery formerly owned by Bosco & Megler, on First St., Bet. Morrison and Yamhill, where he will be happy to wait upon all of his old friends, and as many new ones as may favor him with a call.” The Daily Bee, (Portland) 28 June – 28 August 1876
1876: “Dress Trimmings.- Mrs. D. H. Hendee has purchased the right for this county for G. R. Houghton’s celebrated combined Plaiting and Fluiting Machine, and is prepared to make all kinds of trimming for ladies’ and children’s dresses. She will sell family rights with instructions how to use the machine for the small price of $15. The working of the machine is very simple, and a child of ten years can run it without any trouble. Specimens of its work, which we have seen, are first-class, and were better executed than such work can possibly be done by hand.” Daily Bee (Portland) 13 October 1876, pg. 3, col. 2
1877: “Mr. Hendee is in town and is taking pictures in all styles of the art, and has all the advantages of easy access to his Gallery and the best light in the State, and takes as good pictures as any other man and at as reasonable prices, and is always ready and good-natured. Please call and test his ability. Gallery in the middle of the block, First street, between Morrison and Yamhill, Portland, Oregon” (regular insertion, other issues not checked) The New Northwest, (Portland) 2 March 1877 pg. 2 col. 7.
1879: “Passengers for San Francisco. The O. S. S. Co.’s steamship Oregon sails tomorrow for San Francisco to-morrow at 9 A. M. with the following passengers… D. H. Hendee…” Daily Bee, (Portland) 5 April 1879, pg. 3, col. 3.
1879: “GROWTH OF PORTLAND.- Improvements for the past year. … D. H. Hendee, two residences on Fourth and Jackson streets: A. Goodnough, contractor, $1,800.” Oregonian, 1 January 1879 pg. 3, col. 4.
1879: “Common Council…regular meeting…held last evening…Petitions;…From M. P. Hendee, asking relief for certain improvements assessed to him unjustly, on Fifth street at the foot of Jackson.” Daily Standard, (Portland) 20 March 1879 pg. 3 col. 3
1880: “Fire in the Woods – A few days ago some persons while passing along the road leading to Milwaukie, set fire to some dry brush, and fanned by the north breeze the fire spread with great rapidity and soon covered a large tract of land covered with fallen timber. Several neighbors residing in the vicinity gathered about the fire and endeavored to check the progress of the flames. Nearly a thousand cords of wood were piled in the woods and it was only with the greatest difficulty that it could be saved from sharing a common fate. Only about 15 cords, however, were destroyed. The house of Mr. D. H. Hendee also narrowly escaped destruction. At one time the danger seemed so imminent that Mr. Hendee began to remove his household effects to a place of safety. With great difficulty the fire was headed off. Everything considered it was remarkable that the fire was attended with such a small loss. A band of gypsies are camped near Milwaukie, and it is thought that the woods were set on fire by some of them.” Oregonian, 30 August 1880, pg. 3, col. 1.
1887: “Personnel of the Pioneers (pioneers reunion in Portland)… 1853… D. H. Hendee, East Portland – New York…” Oregonian, 16 June 1887, pg. 3, col. 4
1897: list of Oregon pioneers in attendance at reunion and parade in Portland, “1853 (year of arrival in Oregon)…D. H. Hendee…” Weekly Oregonian, 18 June, 1897, pg. 4, col. 5.
1904: “Photographed McLoughlin- D. H. Hendee, Milwaukie’s octogenarian, was in the city on business last Saturday. Mr. Hendee claims that he secured the last photograph of Dr. John McLoughlin at his gallery which was located in the building that was former known and conducted as the Oregon House.” Oregon City Enterprise, 28 October 1904, pg. 5, col. 1.
1907: “SHOCK FATAL TO PIONEER D. H. Hendee, Octogenarian Resident of Portland, Dies. Shock from a fire that broke out in his home, at 456 Fifth street, early Thursday morning, combined with a severe attack of la grippe, resulted in the death of D. H. Hendee yesterday. Mr. Hendee was 81 years of age and an Oregon pioneer. He established one of Portland’s first photograph galleries in 1852. Mr. Hendee came near being cremated alive in the fire, his son rescuing him and aged Mrs. Hendee in the nick of time
Mrs. Hendee, who is aged 80 years, is in a very serious condition at the family home, and it is believed that she will die. She also had la grippe and was burned slightly during the fire. The shock to her was great and makes her recovery also very doubtful.
D. H. Hendee was born in Rutland Vt. February 26, 1826, and gained his early education there. He devoted much time to photography in his youth and became an expert in that line. He came across the continent during the mining excitement of 1849, but on reaching California, decided that he had make a mistake in taking up mining and went to San Francisco, where he opened the first photograph gallery in the state.
Leaving San Francisco in 1852, he came to Portland, where he established a gallery. He remained in business until 12 years ago, when he retired because of old age. He was well known all over the Pacific Coast.” Oregonian, 2 Feb 1907 pg. 9
1913: “WIDOW OF PIONEER DIES, Marie P. Hendee’s Husband Portland Photographer in 1853…died Monday…87 years old…Hendee Bros of Milwaukie, are her stepsons…’Hendee’ said Joseph Buchtel, ‘had a gallery on Washington street, near First, and my gallery was on the fourth floor of the Canton building, in 1853. I made pictures in the Spring and Hendee in the Fall. We then made what was called daguerreotypes’…” Oregonian, 19 Nov 1913 pg. 12
1932: “It was about 1853 that D. H. Hendee began making daguerreotypes of prominent Portlanders. In 1859 he began making what were known as ambrotypes. His charge was $50 for three ambrotypes.” Oregon Journal, (Portland) 20 Oct 1932 pg. 12 (Fred Lockley history column)
Bibliography
Brown, Robert O., Nineteenth Century Portland, Oregon Photographers: A Collector’s Handbook (author; Portland, 1991) pg. 10-11, 43, 65-67, 97-100
Goodman, Theodosia, “Early Oregon Daguerreotypers and Portrait Photographers”, Oregon Historical Quarterly, (Portland; Oregon Historical Society) Vol. 49, No. 1, March 1948, pg. 34-35.
Hines, Harvey, An Illustrated History of The State Of Oregon, Chicago; Lewis Publishing Co, 1893 pg. 328-329 “…Our subject, Denny H. Hendee, was the eighth child in a family of ten children, and was born on the old farm, in Vermont, February 26, 1826. Up to his seventeenth year he lived at home, attending to the farm duties and enjoying such school privileges as were offered at the district school one mile distant, to which he walked morning and evening through the winter snow and driving storms. After his mother’s death in 1843 he left home and followed various occupations until the spring of 1844, when he was glad to get back to the farm again. In the fall of 1845 he attended the Brandon Seminary, continuing until the summer of 1846, when, in August, he went to New York city to learn the new and wonderful art of taking daguerreotypes, after acquiring which he traveled through New Jersey and Pennsylvania, arriving at Wilkesbarre in the fall of 1847; was there at the departure of a company of soldiers. Returning in the spring of 1848, he commenced the practice of his profession throughout the northern part of New York, until news was received of the discovery of gold in California, when, in company with one brother, he started by steamer for California, in October, 1849, landing upon the rocks at Montgomery street, San Francisco, January 10, 1850. The city was then a rag and board one, with a few adobe structures and the old Catholic mission. Our subject soon found employment in the only art gallery in the city, at $25 per week and board, daguerreotypes then selling at $16 each. In May, 1850, our subject and brother went to the mines near Sonora, subsequently purchasing a daguerreotype outfit from an emigrant, then followed mining and taking pictures at $16 each until January, 1851, doing a prosperous business as well as meeting with great success in mining. He then followed his artistic career at Stockton, Marysville, and was there married to Miss E. S. Vineyard, May 19, 1853. They then returned to San Francisco, and thence by sailing vessel to Portland, Oregon, arriving June 10, following. He immediately rented rooms in the old Canton House for the daguerreotype business, and was the only daguerreotyper in town, the art at that time not having advanced beyond the daguerreotype process. He soon began traveling about the valley, locating temporarily at Oregon City, Salem, La Fayette, Forest Grove and Hillsboro, and returned to Portland in 1856. After a brief interval he returned to California to visit friends, and opened business in Oroville, where he learned the process of photography, and continued until 1859, when he again visited Oregon, with temporary engagements in Shoal Water Bay, St. Helens and Vancouver, locating permanently in Portland in 1861, and continuing a general photographing business.
Our subject was bereaved by the death of his wife, May 10, 1862. This union had been blessed by four children, three of whom survive: Otho S., Samuel B., Ella Fanny and Edwin L. March 10 1864, Mr. Hendee married Mrs. Maria (Ricker) White, a native of Bath, New Hampshire. After marriage Mr. Hendee continued business until 1872, when he was burned out, and after re-stocking, suffered again by the destructive fire of 1873, which burned out upward of twenty blocks. He then removed to Milwaukie, where he owned a small ranch of sixteen acres, and followed farming and the fruit culture. In 1879 he returned to New England to visit old friends, and in 1881 again started the photograph business at East Portland, which he continued until 1886, when he retired, turning the business over to his sons, Otho and Edwin, who are still carrying it forward. Having purchased land upon upper Fifth street, partially improved, Mr. Hendee made other improvements, and now resides an No. 456 Fifth street, in the enjoyment of every necessary comfort. For seven years our subject served as a volunteer fireman, and is now a member of the veterans association. He is a Republican in politics, though not active. After a life of great activity, he is passing the closing years in peace and contentment and in the enjoyment of scientific research, in which he is deeply interested.”
Oregon Native Son, December 1899, summary of Hine’s biography, includes portrait of Hendee, by Moore, pg. 366
Oregon Native Son, Vol. 1, pg. 446 “D. H. Hendee…Among his subjects was Dr. McLoughlin, General Lane, Colonel Joe Meek and Judge Olney. For three ambrotypes taken of the latter, he received one of the now out of date fifty dollar slugs. There were two kinds of these, the round and the octagonal. He received an eight-cornered one”