Tuesday, August 16, 2022

HENRY BEAUFOY MERLIN

See also: Photographic career - Hill End

Photographer Beaufoy Merlin
Source: Mitchell Library, SLNSW

Henry Beaufoy Merlin was born in Norfolk, England, in early 1830 and baptised in March 1830. His father, Frederick Merlin, was a chemist. He died in 1845 when Merlin was 15. Frederick's widow, Ann Harriet (nee Beaufoy) and Merlin arrived in Sydney from London on 8 December 1848. In 1851 Merlin's mother married Henry John Forster.

Harriett Merlin with baby 1872-73
Source: Mitchell Library. SLNSW

In 1863 Merlin was back in England and in January he married Louisa Eleanor Foster at the church of St Mary in Bow, Middlesex. They returned to live in Australia and by July, Merlin was settled in Melbourne where he embarked on a new theatrical enterprise which projected a spectral illusion, known as Pepper's ghost, onto a stage.

Louisa Eleanor Merlin
Source: Mitchell Library. SLNSW

On 21 January 1865, Merlin, opened the 'Kyneton Photographic Studio' in Piper Street, Kyneton (a small town in northern Victoria). The studio was completed at considerable expense and advertised instantaneous portraits, landscape and stereoscopic views, enlargements from carte de visites in crayon and in oil as well as an operating room.

In 1866, Merlin's only son, Francis Henry Beaufoy Merlin (VIC BDM 19421/1866) was born in Ballarat.

On 21 June 1869, Merlin formed the American and Australasian Photographic Company. Initially, the office in Melbourne was located at 73 Little Collins Street but he also opened a second office, at Barrack Street, Sydney, in September 1869. Much of the business was being done in country areas. Firstly, advertisements in local papers would alert the residents that a representative of the company would be arriving. Once there, the photographer would take a photograph of every house and building. The negatives would then be sent back to head office where they could be stored. As orders came in, prints were made and sent to the purchaser.

In September 1869, the company arrived in Beechworth. Subsequent advertisements from this period also make it clear he was making his way towards Sydney through Emerald Hill (June), Beechworth(September), Shepparton (October) and Wangaratta (November). In December, he was at the El Dorado Goldfields where he photographed the turning of the sod for the Devon Company's first mine shaft.

The years between 1869 and 1872 turned the American Australasian Photographic Company into one of the most respected studios in Australia. Between 1872 and 1873 Merlin worked extensively documenting the goldfields and mining towns of New South Wales, [notably Gulgong and Hill End]. In 1873, as an employee of Bernhardt Holtermann, he photographed Sydney and many rural New South Wales towns.

He died on 27 September 1873. The cause was an 'inflammation of the lungs supervening upon the epidemic (a kind of influenza) which has lately been so general in Sydney.' After Merlin's death his wife and children returned to England.
Source: Wikipedia

Henry Beaufoy Merlin was born in 1830, the son of an English chemist by name Frederick Merlin—the Beaufoy being perhaps his mother’s maiden name; by the time he arrived in Australia he was nineteen years of age. Of his young manhood we know little, but it can be suggested that his interest in photography arose from the family association with chemical science, for in those days almost every chemist dabbled in photography.
Source: Australasian photo-review. Vol. 60 No. 3 (1 March 1953)

A brilliant photographer of his time, Beaufoy Merlin made an artistic record of the Australia of the 1870s using the complicated Wet Plate method of those early days


NEWS ITEMS

1869 - [BENALLA, VICTORIA]
It is being mooted to get up a shilling subscription towards the exponse of making our absent veteran, Mr.Piper, a present of an album containing copies of the views of the town and the surrounding scenery which have just been executed by Mr. Merlin, of the American and Australasian Photographic Company. In carrying out this sensible suggestion, the friends of Mr. Piper would be not only paying him another tribute of respect, but the possession of such a useful token would be the means of affording a great deal of pleasure to the recipient. As Mr. Merlin has gratuitously offered the book, and the price of the pictures would a be but a mere trifle, the cost of the present would not exceed £3 at the most, and it could be dispatched by the next outgoing mail.
...
The views taken by Mr. Merlin, the artist of the American and Australasian Photographic Company, are now ready for sale, and Mr. Merlin may well feel proud at the successes he has achieved. Nearly all the principal points of interest in, and near the town have been faithfully reproduced, and the series of views submitted for our inspection are really beautiful specimens of the photographer's art. The softness of the views taken, and at the same time the distinctness of outline and precision which characterises them, entitle them to be classed as pictures in an artistic sense. Certainly, nothing so good has ever before been attempted here, and it is therefore gratifying to know that Mr. Merlin is reaping the reward he so richly merits.
"The glorious sun stays in his course and plays the alchymist."—SHAKESPEARE'S "KING JOHN."

THE AMERICAN AND AUSTRALASIAN PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPANY have now commenced to Photograph every House, Shop, Store, Public Building, and Private Residence in Sydney. Offices—11, Barrack-street, Sydney, and 73, Little Collins-street, Melbourne.

As the mere announcement of a scheme so gigantic as PHOTOGRAPHING SEPARATELY every HOUSE and BUILDING in Sydney, and the other towns in the colony, may be received with some degree of doubt; it may be necessary to explain to the public—First, the object the Company have in view in this undertaking; second, what they have already done; third, what they further purpose doing.

FIRST.—The proprietors of this enterprise believe that in these colonies Photography has not had that scope which might be expected from an art so important, and yet so universal in its application to the requirements of taste and industry. Hitherto it has been devoted almost entirely to portraiture, and but very little attention has been given to its true artistic character, as in the case of Landscape Illustration; or its commercial value as a means of public information. To attain these two very desirable results, the
undertaking was projected some twelve months ago, and from the success which has attended their efforts in this direction—more particularly in the sister colony of Victoria —the Company have every confidence that the public of New South Wales will in like manner appreciate the enterprise. Generally the attempts that have been made in outdoor Photography have been—with a few solitary exceptions—of a very primitive character. The whole arrangement was so cumbersome that it is not to be wondered at that the projectors of a scheme so vast as that now propounded, and so much opposed to past experience, should be met at the threshold of their undertaking with warning of certain failure. Times, however, are continually altering. "The old order changeth and giveth place to the new," and what is looked upon as impossible to-day may become an established fact to-morrow. The system adopted by the Company is so entirely novel, that by means of the best instruments, the best operators, and certain improvements in lenses and cameras, each operator can take over a hundred views daily. Photographers as a rule, consider ten or twelve a pretty fair average for a day. The economy of time being thus the great secret of success, it is obvious that under the ordinary system it would be quite impossible to carry out the scheme.

SECOND.—The A. and A. P. Co. have already taken photographs of almost every building in Melbourne, as well us in every town of any importance in Victoria. The negatives (many thousands) are deposited in the Company's office in Melbourne, to which place, by forwarding the number, copies can be dispatched to any address at an hour's notice. The south-eastern townships of this colony have already been taken, while others are in course of completion, each town averaging about 300 separate views.

THIRD.—The Company, in commencing operations in Sydney, will advertise in the daily journals the particular streets they intend working that day. As every house or shop will be taken separately, parties will have an opportunity of setting off their places to the best advantage. The main object the company have in view is simply the collection of a series of trustworthy views which will be of public interest and utility. For this purpose, arrangements are being made to open an exhibition where card views of every house in the colonies will be arranged panoramically, thus forming AN IMMENSE PHOTOGRAPHIC DIRECTORY OF ALL AUSTRALIA. 
BEAUFOY MERLIN, Manager for New South Wales.

AMERICAN and Australasian Photographic Company.—Several of the Company's vans having arrived overland from Melbourne, business will commence This Day.
AMERICAN and Australasian Photographic Company—Every house in Crown-st. will be taken This Day.
AMERICAN and Australasian Photographic Company. —Every house in Riley-street will be taken To-Day.
AMERICAN and Australasian Photographic Company.—Every house in Bourke-st. will be taken This Day.

AMERICAN and AUSTRALASIAN PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPANY.—Intercolonial Exhibition.
Will be published on the 10th September, price one shilling each, twenty instantaneous views of the Exhibition.—These pictures being taken in the FRACTIONAL PART OF A SECOND, show not only the mere building,but the life and bustle arising from the thousands assembled outside.

Exhibition Building, Sydney, 1870, Beaufoy Merlin
Source: State Library, Victoria


1870  - [ADVERTISEMENTS]
AMERICAN AND AUSTRALASIAN PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPANY. Company work, Thursday and Friday. Every house in Crown-street, Riley-strect, as far as Foveaux-street, and Petersham. Landlords and parties interested in property situated in above localities can obtain copies at office, price 1s., on Wednesday.
AMERICAN AND AUSTRALASIAN PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPANY, 11, Barrack-street, Sydney; 73, Little Collins-street, Melbourne. Copies of every house in Braidwood can now be obtained at the office.

1870  - [ADVERTISEMENTS]
AMERICAN AND AUSTRALASIAN PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPANY. COMPANY'S WORK, THIS DAY (Monday) The whole of William-street, north side; Marrickville, every house; Portion of Sussex-street. OFFICE-BARRACK-STREET, SYDNEY.

1870 - ARRIVAL OF THE GALATEA.
THE AMERICAN AND AUSTRALASIAN PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPANY. Offices— 11, Barrack-street, Sydney, and 73, Little Collins street, Melbourne.
The GALATEA Photographed, THIS MORNING, before coming to anchor. Specimens now on view at the Company's office, Maddock's, Stationer, George-street; Furse's, Frame-maker, George street; and Turner's, Hunter-street. Size— 12 x 10 indies.
B. MERLIN, Manager.
Source:  Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931) Thu 15 Sep 1870 Page 3

1870  - [ADVERTISEMENTS]
AMERICAN AND AUSTRALASIAN PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPANY, Offices, 11, Barrack-street, Sydney. 73, Collins-street, Melbourne.
The public are respectfully informed the Company intend Photographing separately every house in GEORGE STREET (weather permitting) this week, commencing on Wednesday, September 21. The large amount of traffic during the middle of the day rendering the production of good pictures impossible, the Company will operate only in this street between the hours of 8 and 10 a.m.
BEAUFOY MERLIN, Manager for New South Wales.

A. AND A. PHOTO COMPANY.—No pictures have as yet been taken by the Co. in George-st.
A. AND A. PHOTO COMPANY will commence Photographing George-street on Wednesday.
A. AND A. PHOTO COMPANY.—Please notice, all plates taken by us bear the Co.'s trade mark.
A. AND A. PHOTO COMPANY.—The Company are now engaged photographing the harbour.
A. AND A. PHOTO COMPANY will commence operations in George-street on Wednesday, 21st.
Source:  The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954) Mon 19 Sep 1870 Page 1

1870  - [ADVERTISEMENTS]
AMERICAN AND AUSTRALASIAN PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPANY.—Views of every public building, store, and private residenco in Yass, Goulburn, Queanbeyan, Braidwood, and Parramatta, ONE SHILLING EACH.
Source:  The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954) Thu 22 Sep 1870 Page 1

1870  - [ADVERTISEMENTS - MAITLAND]
ADVERTISING BY PHOTOGRAPHY.—The AMERICAN and AUSTRALASIAN PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPANY purpose (after the 1st November) having exhibited at each of the principal hotels and places of public resort in the city, twenty-five handsome show cases, in which will be displayed samples of their photography. Parties ordering a hundred cards of their places of business cab have a copy displayed in each case which will form a novel and interesting medium of advertising. The frames will remain unchanged for six months. Further particulars on application at the Company's Printing Office. 399, Riley-street.

A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY.—MAITLAND.
The public of Maitland are respectfully informed that the company will dispatch one of their vans on MONDAY EVENING, for the purposo of photographing (simultaneously with NEWCASTLE) every house in the town.
A. AND A. PHOTO. CO.—NEWTOWN ROAD, will be photographed to-day, weather permitting.
A.AND A. PHOTO. CO.—The Company will finish remainder of South Head Road, TO-DAY.

1870  - [ADVERTISEMENTS - NEWCASTLE]
A. AND A. P PHOTO. COMPANY. NEWCASTLE.
Every House, without exception, will be photographed, and each day's work will be exhibited, so that the public may have an opportunity of judging the merits of the Company's work.
A. AND A. PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPANY,
11, Barrack-street, Sydney
73, Little Collins-street, Melbourne
City of Newcastle
CAUTION.—As several imitators of the Company's works are daily springing up, the public would do well to see that the card presented by the agent bears at the back the
COMPANY'S TRADE MARK.
The specimen will, if wished by the party whose house the picture represents, be left with them, so that those interested may have an opportunity of comparing the Company's work with any other photo that may be shown them.
This caution is necessary in consequence of numerous trashy attempts at photography that have recently been, and are now being offered for sale in Sydnoy.
BEAUFOY MERLIN, Manager.

1870 -  [ADVERTISEMENTS - WALLSEND etc]
To the Residents of Wallsend, &c.
THE VAN of the AMERICAN & AUSTRALIAN PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPANY, will (weather permitting) on FRIDAY FIRST, visit Borehole, Lambton, Waratah, and Wallsend.
Parties wishing photographs of their stores or residences, may avail themselves of this opportunity.
—Terms, the same as in Newcastle, viz., 10s. 6d. per dozen views of residence or store, with family orother group in front.
JAMES FERGUSON, Agent,
American and Australian Photographic Company.

THE AMERICAN & AUSTRALASIAN PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPANY are now engaged in photographing every House, Shop, and Public Building in Newcastle.
Australian Offices :— Melbourne, 73, Little Collins-street; Sydney, 11, Barrack-street, and 309, Riley-street. Manager for New South Wales—Mr. B. MERLIN.
—Special orders for large views to be left with, and all information obtained from JAMES FERGUSON, Agent,
American Australasian Photographic Company, Royal Exchange Hotel, Newcastle.

1870  - [ADVERTISEMENTS - SYDNEY HARBOUR]
A AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY.
NOOKS and CORNERS of SYDNEY HARBOUR
The A. and A. Photo. Company, in answer to enquiries respecting the series of Instantaneous Views of Sydney Harbour, recently advertised by them as about to be taken by Mr. Merlin, begs to state that the inclemency of the weather has prevented the proposal being carried into effect, but should to-day prove fine a commencement will be made.
Subject—H.M. SHIPS NOW IN HARBOUR.
Proof Copies will be exhibited on Tuesday at Spence's Mechanical Exhibition, Pitt-street.
Source: The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954) Sat 29 Oct 1870 Page 1

1870  - [ADVERTISEMENTS]
A. AND A. PHOTO COMPANY.—The Company having taken the premises in George-street, lately in the occupation of Victor Prout, beg to notify the rooms will be CLOSED from the 1st to the 15th of December for the purpose of extensive alterations. B. MALIN, Manager.

1870  - [ADVERTISEMENTS]
A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY. 324, George-street.
The Management having taken the premises in George street lately in the occupation of Victor Prout, their PHOTOGRAPHIC GALLERY will be OPEN on SATURDAY, December 17, for the production of first-class portraiture. B. MERLIN, Manager.

1870  - [ADVERTISEMENTS]
A. AND A. PHOTO COMPANY (Late Victor Prout's, George street )
The alterations and improvements in the above Rooms being now complete, the gallery will br open to the public THIS DAY, December 26
Tariff 12 copies Carte de Visite, 10s 6d
Special Appointments and Groups, l5s per dozen
BEAUFOY MERLIN, Manager

1870  - [ADVERTISEMENTS]
A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY (late Victor Prout's, George-street). — The above Company respectfully beg to inform the public their Rooms are now open for the production of first-class Portraiture.
Mr. MERLIN will be in attendance between the hours of 11 and 4 daily. Before or after that time an efficient operator.
Terms: Carte de Visite size, per dozen, 10s. 6d.
BEAUFOY MERLIN, Manager.

1871 - SINGLETON
American and Australasian Photographic Company.—Representatives of this company have been in Singleton during the past fortnight taking a number of interesting views of the town and neighbourhood, as also views of our public buildings, places of business, and private residences. Several of our lady friends have complained to us that the "gentlemen with the camera" do things in too great a hurry, by not giving timely notice of their arrival on the scene of operations, in order that our fair friends may appear in propriâ personœ on the scene of operations. Kindly take this hint, Mr. Superintender and profit by it, as it won't do to offend the ladies!
Singleton, 26th January, 1871.

1871 - A and A. PHOTO. COMPANY, 324, George-Street.
Parties waiting for Cards can, aided by the beautiful art of Photography, in Imagination, visit the Chief Towns of New South Wales. The Company wish it to be distinctly under stood NO CHARGE IS MADE for inspection; and the system adopted in regard to Portraiture is conducted precisely on the same principle as their now popular Street Photography. No orders received until the specimen copy is submitted and approved of. BEAUFOY MERLIN, Manager.
Source:  Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931) Mon 23 Jan 1871 Page 1

United Insurance Company, 275 George Street Sydney, 1871 Sepia carte-de-visite by the American & Australasian Photographic Company

Detail of above
Source: Museums of History NSW


1871 - [ADVERTISEMENTS]
A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY, 324, George-street.
Mr. MERLIN, on behalf of the above Company, begs to inform the public of Sydney, the Company having now completed the necessary alterations in the above Rooms, they are prepared to produce portraits unsurpassed in Sydney, either in mechanical execution or artistic finish.
The engagement of Mr. CLARK (formerly manager for the celebrated firm of Johnson and O'Shanessy, of Melbourne), will at once fully assure the public that no expense or trouble has been spared by the management in the production of first-class results.
All pictures will be taken personally by Mr. Clark, the Company at the same time preserving their original scheme of work-namely: NO ORDERS RECEIVED UNTIL THE PROOF IS SUBMITTED FOR APPROVAL.
Terms: 10s 6d per dozen, carte-de-visite size. N.B.—Enlargements up to life-size.
BEAUFOY MERLIN, Manager.

1871 - Offences not otherwise described.
A warrant has been issued by the Water Police Bench for the arrest of Joseph Gambell, charged with assaulting Beaufoy Merlin, on the 23rd instant. Gambell is about 20 years of age, 5 feet 8 inches high, light brown hair, fair complexion; dressed in paget coat, light tweed trousers and vest, low black crowned Sydney hat, wears a long gold chain snake pattern; a groom; a native of Windsor, where he is supposed to have gone.
Source: New South Wales Police Gazette and Weekly Record of Crime (Sydney : 1860 - 1930) Wed 31 May 1871 [Issue No.22] Page 146

1871 - [ADVERTISEMENTS]
A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY.—LIVERPOOL.
Mr. C. BAYLISS will THIS DAY (weather permitting) visit Liverpool, for the purpose of Photographing every house in that Township. C MAMBY, Agent.

THE RECENT INCLEMENT WEATHER.
A. and A. PHOTO COMPANY, 324, George-street, over Sandon's Book Depot.
NOTICE. The Company have taken advantage of the last few days' stormy weather to complete the new rooms for the convenience of their patrons.
A NEW LAVATORY and DRESSING-ROOM, replete with every Toilet Requisite, is now at the service of the public.
All portraits are taken by Mr. Clark, late principal operator to Johnson and O'Shanassy, Melbourne.
Parties procuring one dozen copies, price 10s 6d, are entitled to a free cheque in the Art Union, to be drawn on the 1st of October, B. MERLIN, Manager

1871 - [ADVERTISEMENTS]
A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY, 324, George-street. OVER SANDON'S, BOOKSELLER.
TO ARTISTS.
The Company intend, after the 25th of the present month, dedicating a portion of one of their magnificent waiting-rooms to the reception of works of art executed by colonial artists. The great difficulty that often occurs to the artist after his painting is finished is the want of a proper place to exhibit his production. Therefore, after the above date we sholl be happy to receive any picture (executed in the colony) either for sale or exhibition.
The numerous parties that daily visit the above rooms for the purpose of portraiture, or the inspection of the beautiful collection of OLEOGRAPHS NOW ON VIEW, will render it an excellent opportunity for publicity. B. MERLIN, Manager.
A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY, 324, George-street.
The Rooms are now open. Carte-de-Visite, 10s 6d per dozen. Every person purchasing one dozen cards is entitled to a gratuitous cheque in the forthcoming Art Union.

1871 - [ADVERTISEMENTS]
APPOINTMENTS.
Parties making Appointments to have Portraits taken at a certain hour will be kind enough to give at least TWO DAYS' NOTICE. The management finding it impossible to prevent disappointment when engagements are made, say the evening before the sitting is required, to fulfil their appointments.
All portraits are taken by Mr. CLARK, formerly chief operator to Johnson and O'Shannessy, Melbourne.
Parties taking one dozen (10s 6d) are entitled to a cheque for the gratuitous ART UNION DISTRIBUTION for £200, to be drawn on the 1st of next October. 324, George-street, over Sandon's, Book Depot.

A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY WOLLONGONG. PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE ILLAWARRA DISTRICT. Owing to a pressure of business Mr. Merlin will be unable to leave Sydney as last week advertised. Mr. C. BAYLISS will, in his place, represent the company in Wollongong. Operations (weather permitting) will be commenced in, WOLLONGONG on MONDAY next.
BEAUFOY MERLIN, Manager.
Source: The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954) Sat 6 May 1871 Page 1

1871 - A and A PHOTO COMPANY, 324 GEORGE-STREET, OVER SANDON'S BOOK DEPOT.
Portraits taken daily by Mr. CLARK (late chief operator for Johnson and O'Shannessy, Melbourne). Parties purchasing one dozen—price 10s 6d—are entitled to a chance in the forthcoming Art Union, to be drawn for October 1. BEAUFOY MERLIN, Manager.

1871 - [ADVERTISEMENTS]
A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY, 324, George-street.
ART UNION, £200 worth of PICTURES.
The above gratuitous Art Union will be positively drawn for on the 1st of October. Parties desirous of holding shares can do so by obtaining ono dozen portraits, price 10s 6d.
BEAUFOY MERLIN, Manager.

A AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY.—Richmond. Every house and public building, with all views of interest, can be now seen at the Company's office 324, George-street, near Hunter-street.
Source: The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954) Wed 26 Jul 1871 Page 8

1871 - [ADVERTISEMENTS - WINDSOR]
A AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY, 324, George street, near Hunter-street, WINDSOR. Every house and public building now ON VIEW at the Company's rooms... BEAUFOY MERLIN, Manager
Source:  The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954) Thu 27 Jul 1871 Page 1

1871 - [ADVERTISEMENTS]
  • A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY —TAMBAROORA will be taken during next week.
  • 324 GEORGE-STREET—ORANGE will be visited by the A. and A. Company, Aug. 7.
  • A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY LIVERPOOL. Every house and public building.

1871 - PUBLIC NOTICES.
A. AND A. PHOTO COMPANY, 324, George-street.
NOW READY, A SERIES of TEN VIEWS, taken from the Tower of St. James's Church, WITH PORTFOLIOS. PRICE £4 4s.
A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY. The Company's magnificent Portrait Rooms. 324, George-street, ARE NOW OPEN. Principal Operator, Mr. CLARK. Cards, 10s 6d per dozen.
BEAUFOY MERLIN, Manager.

1871 - [ADVERTISEMENTS]
NOTICE. A. and A. PHOTO. COMPANY. The Party who purchased a set of VIEWS of SYDNEY about ten days since (from a person who represented himself as employed by the above Company), would greatly oblige by communicating with Mr. MERLIN, this morning if possible.

1871 - [ADVERTISEMENTS]
A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY. 324, George-street, near Hunter-street.
The Company's Magnificent Rooms are daily open. Chief Operator.Mr. CLARK. The Gratuitous Art Union will be drawn for MONDAY, October 2nd, at the TEMPERANCE HALL, Pitt-street. Cards, 10s 6d per dozen. BEAUFOY MERLIN.
Source:  The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954) Fri 18 Aug 1871 Page 1

1871 - [ADVERTISEMENTS]
A. AND A. PHOTO COMPANY, 324, George-street. 
EXHIBITION of 1871.
NOTICE.—In order to allow Gentlemen from the country (leaving by this evening's train) an opportunity of inspecting the Photographs of the Cattle taken by Mr. Merlin on Saturday afternoon, Specimen Copies will be at the Company's Rooms, at 3 p.m. THIS DAY. BEAUFOY MERLIN, Manager.
Source:  The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954) Mon 28 Aug 1871 Page 1

1871 - [ADVERTISEMENTS]
A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY. EXHIBITION OF 1871.
Parties desirous of having Photographs of their Exhibits taken can do so on application at the Company's Portrait Rooms, 324, George-street. Terms, 10s 6d per dozen.
Cattle will be taken at their Printing Rooms, 399, Riley. Appropriate Back Grounds and every accommodation for horses or cattle provided

A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY. TEMPERANCE HALL, MONDAY, October 2. The ART UNION will be drawn for on the above date. All desirous of becoming shareholders can do so by obtaining 1 dozen portraits, price 10s 6d. B. MERLIN. Manager.

A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY, 324. George street. Our Country Friends are reminded our Rooms will be open THIS DAY, Thursday. Chief Operator, Mr. CLARK.

A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY. Where shall we spend on hour? At the Company's Rooms, 324, George-street, and inspect the most Magnificent Collection of Oleographs in the colony.

A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY. The Great Art Union Distribution, on TUESDAY, October 2nd, at the TEMPERANCE HALL

1871 - [ADVERTISEMENTS]
LAST DAY BUT FOURTEEN to obtain TICKETS in the COMPANY'S GRATUITOUS ART UNION. Note the Address 324, GEORGE-STREET, near Hunter-street, over Sandon's, bookseller.
The A. and A. PHOTO. COMPANY beg to inform the public that, in grateful recognition of the support they have received since their establishment in Sydney, they have determined to present the patrons of their PORTRAIT ROOMS with a collection of PHOTOGRAPHIC PORTFOLIOS, ALBUMS, SPECIAL STUDIES, and PANORAMAS, WORTH OVER TWO HUNDRED POUNDS.
They have, therefore, much pleasure in announcing that every person procuring a dozen cartes-de-visite, executed in the Company's best style, and at the present price 10s 6d, shall be entitled to a ticket for the GRAND GRATUITOUS PHOTOGRAPHIC ART DISTRIBUTION to take place October 2nd. For every additional dozen cartes, an extra ticket will be issued. [prizes as listed below].

There will be FIFTY ADDITIONAL TICKETS, value ONE POUND each, entitling the holder to a dozen vignette carte-de-visite, three of them artistically coloured, to be taken a week after the drawing.

A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY. THE KURRAJONG. View taken by Mr. Merlin during his recent visit, will be on exhibition at the Company's Rooms TO-DAY.

A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY. WARRIOR, and MISTY MORN, Photographs of those horses will be published on MONDAY next; size 14 inches by 16.

1871 - [ADVERTISEMENTS]
A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY.
THE KURRAJONG. Mr. MERLIN, having professionally spent a fortnight amongs the picturesque and romantic scenes in the Kurrajong, and Valley of the Hawkesbury, invites the attention of the public to his Solar Views, taken in this charming region. On EXHIBITION, THURSDAY, 14th. 324, George-street.

A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY. 324, George-street. ART UNION DISTRIBUTION. The public are respectfully reminded this is the last day but Seventeen of the gratuitous Art distribution, of October 2nd.

A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY. Mr. MERLIN wishes to draw attention to the Company's magnificent enlarged Photographs, executed in oil, mezzotint, or water colour, specimen copies of which can be seen at the Company's Rooms, 324, George-street.

A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY. Now added to the rooms, photographs of every house in SINGLETON and MUSWELLBROOK.

A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY, 324, George-st
SCONE
MURRURUNDI
TAMWORTH.
The above townships will shortly be taken by the A. and A. Company.

A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY
BATHURST
ORANGE.
Every house and public building on view at the Company's offices, 324, George-street, on MONDAY, September 18.

A. AND A. PHOTO COMPANY. Remember the distribution of tickets for ths gratuitous ART UNION closes on SATURDAY, the 30th of September.

1871 - [ADVERTISEMENTS]
A. AND A. PHOTO COMPANY. 324, George-street. SPECIAL NOTICE.
Amongst the advertised Gifts for MONDAY EVENING, there are 60 PRIZES, value £1 each. These Prizes will be numbered ONE to FIFTY. In order to prevent a useless overcrowding of the Company's Rooms, winners of Prizes will oblige by presenting their orders as follows:
Nos. 1 to 26, the first week after the drawing.
Nos. 26 to 50, on the second week of the same.
BEAUFOY MERLIN, Manager.

A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY A Portrait of the eminent Tragedian, MORTON TAVARES, ready for issue, SATURDAY, September 30th.

A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY. WARRIOR and MISTY MORN, Photographed by Mr. MERLIN, on view at Furze's, opposite the Royal Hotel, George-street.
Source:  The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954) Fri 29 Sep 1871 Page 1

1871 - [ADVERTISEMENTS]
A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY. THE LATE ART UNION.—Winners of prizes will kindly observe the following notice: The 50 orders entitling the winner to either £1 worth of selected views or portraits will be distributed on THURSDAY, October 5th. Country holders of prize numbers, by communicating, can either reserve their orders until convenient to visit town, or obtain views to amount Nos. 1 to 6 prizes ready for delivery on THURSDAY; Nos. 7 to 12 on FRIDAY, the 6th
B. MERLIN, Manager.

A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY, 324, George-street.—WRECK OF THE MEGÆRA, at ST. PAUL'S— Photograph of the CREW of the LIFE-BOAT, album size, now on SALE.

A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY.—HASLEMS' CREEK [now Rookwood].—Mr. C. BAYLISS will visit the Cemetery on SATURDAY next. Orders for Photographs of Tombs received. 324, George-street.

1871 - [ADVERTISEMENTS]
A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY. GRATUITOUS ART UNION DISTRIBUTION. held at the Temperance Hall, on MONDAY, 2nd. The following are the winning members :—
  • 1st prize, No. 166, Mr. Howarth, William-street, Redfern
  • 2nd pnze, No 296, Mr. Loftus
  • 3rd prize, No. 131, Mr. Coates, Bathurst
  • 4th prize, No. 309, Mr. Rees
  • 6th pnzo, No. 254, Mr. Healey, 39, Kent-sfreet
  • Sth pnzo, No. 421, Mr. J. Walker, 386, George-street
  • 7th prize, No. 322, Mr. Brooks
  • 8th prize, No. 617, Mrs. Warner
  • 9th prize, No. 335, Mr. Wark
  • 10th prize, No 237, Mrs. Avns, St John's School
  • 11th prize, No. 192, Mr. Jones, Gulgong
  • 12th prize, No. 381, Mrs. Flanagan [further numbered prizes not reproduced here]
Source: The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954) Wed 4 Oct 1871 Page 1

1871 - [ADVERTISEMENTS]
A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY, 324, George-street CHRISTMAS PRESENTS. CHRISTMAS EVE. Full particulars of our CHRlSTMAS TREE in Friday's issue of this paper. A leaf for every one.

A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY, WOLLONGONG AND KIAMA. Mr. MERLIN this day leaves Sydney, for the purpose of producing a series of OLEO PHOTOGRAPHS of the Illawarra District

Mr CHARLES BAYLISS, under whose entire supervision the Landscape Department ia now placed, will personally attend to all orders, and (weather permitting) will ensure the execution of tbe same within twenty-four hours from the time of the order being received.

A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY, 324, George-street GRATUITOUS ART UNION, from 3rd October to 24th December, 1871. Parties ordering one dozen Portraits, price 10s 6d, are entitled to a share in the Cumpany's profits, to be drawn for on Christmas Eve. In order to extend this privilege to our country friends, orders for one dozen views of private residences, in any part of New South Wales, are also entitled to a share. BEAUFOY MERLIN, Manager.

1871 - PUBLIC NOTICES.
A AND A. PHOTO COMPANY. ROOM8, 324, George-street.
PROGRAMME OF PRIZES FOR DISTRIBUTION ON CHRISTMAS EVE.
GRATUITOUS ART UNION, entitling the party ordering Ono Dozen Portraits (price 10s 6d) to a share in the Company's Profits. In order to extend this advantage to our country friends orders for one dozen landscape views, private residences, &c., will be entitled to a share.
1ST PRIZE.
A complete Panorama of Sydney, coloured in oil, comprising 10 plates,elegantly framed, value, £15 0 0
Portfolio of 25 large Views, chiefly country subjects, value £12 0 0
Total value of First Prize £27 10 0
2ND PRIZE. "Sydney by Day and Night," a magnificent revolving diorama, value £15 0 0
3RD PRIZE. HandsomE Album, 250 caRds, views in New South Wales, value £12 10 0
4TH PRIZE. The New South Wales Album, value £7 10 0
5TH PRIZE, The Sydney Album, value £6 0 0
6TH PRIZE. Two Oleographs of the " Galatea," in different positions, elegantly framed, value £4 4 0
7TH PRIZE. Oleographs — "Mount Kiara," handsomely framed, value £2 2 0
8TH PRIZE. Oleograph — " Lake Scene," Illawarra district, value £2 2 0
9TH PRIZE. Oleograph — Picturesque Spot in Avenue leading to Berkley, Wollongong, value £2 2 0
10TH PRIZE. Two Oleographs — Ferns of New South Wales, in Oriental Valley, Kurrajong, and Weatherboards, value £2 2 0
11TH PRIZE. Oleograph — Town o£ Kiama £2 2 0
12TH PRIZE. Oleograph — Sydney Harbour £2 2 0
13TH PRIZE. Oleograph — "In the Bush" £1 5 0
14TH PRIZE. Oleograph — "Vale of Avoca," sunset £1 5 0
15TH PRIZE. Oleograph — Moonlight Scene, Parramatta River £1 5 0
and twenty-five prizes, value 10s 6d each.
The drawing will take place in the Temperance Hall, on SATURDAY EVENING, December 23, under the superintendence of a committee of gentlemen.
Every lady ticket-holder present will be presented with a cabinet size photograph of "Sydney," from the South Head, BEAUFOY MERLIN, Manager.

1871  - [ADVERTISEMENTS]
PRINCE OF WALES BIRTHDAY, THURSDAY next, 9th November.
THE AMERICAN AND AUSTRALASIAN PHOTO. COMPANY'S ROOMS, 324, George-street, WILL BE OPEN. GRATUITOUS ART UNION.
Parties ordering one dozen Portraits, price 10s 6d, are entitled to a share in the Company's profits, to be drawn for on Christmas eve. For the programme of prizes see S. M. HERALD of Saturday, October 28.
BEAUFOY MERLIN, Manager.

1871  - [ADVERTISEMENTS]
American and Australasian Photographic Company. A SPLENDID oleograph VIEW of KIAMA, three feet two by one foot two, on view at Adams's Steam Packet Hotel, where orders will be received. F. H. HUNT, Agent.

1872? - ARMIDALE
Yesterday artists belonging to the American and Australasian Photographic Company were proceeding through the streets of Armidale taking views of the churches, public buildings, shops, and in fact everything necessary to form an unbroken sketch of the town. They have a portable laboratory, which is conveyed about with them in a one-horse buggy.
1872 - [ECLIPSE]
Mr Merlin, of the American and Australasian Photographic Company, George street, Sydney, has forwarded to us a series of photographic views taken during the Eclipse Expedition. There are portraits
of the passengers and members of the observing parties, a view of Eclipse Island, and several views of the tents erected thereon and the instruments which the parties fondly hoped to be able to use in observing the eclipse. There are two large and very excellent views of Fitzroy Island, which show very strikingly the tropical character of the vegetation. The steamer Governor Blackall is, of course, not omitted. This series of views is certainly the best that we have seen and will be of great interest to those who wish to obtain an accurate idea of the proceedings of the Eclipse Expedition.
Source: The Ballarat Star (Vic. : 1865 - 1924) Tue 13 Feb 1872 Page 2

Eclipse Island
Source: Trove

1871 - THE ECLIPSE EXPEDITION. ROUGH NOTES. [By BEAUFOY MERLIN.]
I HAVE been so frequently asked, since my return from this expedition, for information relative to the undertaking, and I have heard so much surprise expressed at the leading papers of the colony not having satisfied the public in reference to what was observed (and what could not be observed) during our voyage from Sydney and back again, that I take upon myself the duty of supplying your readers with a few rough and rapid notes of the voyage and its incidents.
It will be in the recollection of the reader that we steamed away—in the Governor Blackall, specially chartered for the expedition—from Campbell's Wharf, at half-past 4 in the afternoon of the 27th of November. A few attenuated cheers - omens of unsuccess—greeted us from the Quay as the gallant little vessel moved on her way. The afternoon was pleasantly cool—-the sky remarkably clear and bright—the harbour and shores of Port Jackson looking as pleasant to the eye as I ever beheld them.
The steamer having had to take a large supply of coal (for tho return as well as the outward bound voyage) appeared — and I dare say was, rather deep in the water. This must have given rise to the unfounded report of an accident or mishap which, we afterwards heard, was circulated about her. It is fortunate for the ingenious individual who set this rumour afloat, that he did not fall in with some of our company, as he would, in all probability, have received a lesson which would cause him to make a loss ready use of his tongue hereafter.
After we had cleared the North Head, the different individuals forming the Expodition began to make each others acquaintance; and before the dinner bell rung we were pretty generally known to each other. I may as well mention their names here:
J. Gowland, R N., commander ; Alexander Black, geographical surveyor, Melbourne; H. T. Bolding, P.M., Raymond Terrace ; J. Bosisto, chemist, Melbourne; T. W. Brazier, naturalist, Sydney ; Henry Britton, special reporter, Melbourne; H. R. Casselli, architect, Ballarat ; W. A. Clarson, artist, Melbourne ; D. Curdie, M.D., Victoria; P. Davin, St. Kilda, Melbourne : Sil. Dingles, naturalist, Brisbane ; R.L. J.. Ellery, Government astronomer, Melbourne; G. Foord, assayer, Mint, Melbourne ; P. D. J. Grut, banker, Melbourne; Rev. W. Kelly, St. Patrick's College, Melbourne; D. Kennedy, Sandhurst; W. J. McDonnell, Sydney; F. M'George, observatory, Melbourne; S. Marshall, Ballarat; Beaufoy Merlin, A. and A. Photo. Company, Sydney; Charles Moore, Botanic Gardens, Sydney; Carl Moerlin, observatory, Melbourne; E. Nichols, Star office, Ballarat; J. W. Payter, telegraph department, Melbourne ; P. D. Pancard, Adelaide; H. K. Rusden, secretary R S, Melbourne; H. C. Russell, Government astronomer, Sydney; Rev. W. Scott, St. Paul's College, Sydney; Charles Walters, photographer, Melbourne; C. Whitehead, Clarence River; W. P. Wilson, Professor, University, Melbourne; J. D. Reece, photographer, Melbourne; Captain Eidie, chief-officer; J. Crooks, purveyor. There was besides a thoroughly efficient crew—making a total of seventy-two souls on board.
Shortly after dinner, a few members of tho company began to experience those qualms of stomach—the sure forerunner of positive sea sickness, and before 7 o'clock some eight or ten were in the paroxysms of the nauseous ailment, for which 'the good sailor' seldom sympathises. Being of the latter class myself—fortunately for me—I was able to keep the deck till long after the moon had risen and shed a broad pale light over the calm waters of the sea. The coast line looked well defined in this light—all the bolder from the mass of gloom that lay immediately under it. The following day (28th November) the weather was fine. We sighted Port Macquarie at 2 p.m.; signalled to the station, and received a reply, During the afternoon, on deck, the conversation became severely astronomical, and otherwise scientific. While those who were interested in an eclipsed sun spoke of its corona, others, who were botanically and entomologically affected, discoursed on shrubs, beetles—in fact, drew largely on Lardner's Cyclopædia, their own investigations, or their imagination. Proctor's bold speculations on the constitution of the sun also received great critical attention. Several of the sea-sick invalids were still doubtful whether life was worth enduring—so prostrated were they by their indisposition.
On the 29th we passed the Richmond River, and had a fine view of Mount Warning, whose peaked summit looks in the distanca like a ruined castle. We noticed the revolving light on the coast, at about fifteen miles' distance; but it was too dark to make signals. We got abreast of Frazer's Island on Thursday, November 30th. It appears to be scantily covered with vegetation, and presents no attractive features. We lost sight of land at noon, about which time we entered the tropic of Capricorn. During the afternoon the passengers amused themselves with sea quoits on deck; in the evening they read or played chess in the cabin, except those who preferred watching the sea over the sides or topsail and who were well repaid by the sight they got of a number of phosphorescent creatures that made the dark waters luminous, often expanding into broad discs of blueish light. We were favoured with a visit from one the nereids in the shape of a flying fish, during the evening. Whether it came to interview us, or to acquire nautical knowledge, I can't say, but it certainly came to grief. The following day (1st December), the crew was occupied in the morning in bringing coal from for ward. There was a fine south east trade blowing and the boat was doing fully eleven knots an hour. About half-past 10 we sighted a peak about 720 feet above the level of the sea; the first bit of terra firma we had seen since yesterday. The passengers had been for some hours straining their eyes for its discovery. Everybody seemed to be provided with an opera-glass or telescope. Conversation a shade less scientific. At half-past 11 no less than five rocky islands were in sight. About mid-day a strong rain squall came up shutting-out all view of the islands referred to but leaving the afternoon dull and hazy.
At 2 p.m. Lieutenant Gowland intimated to the passengers that we should anchor about 5 o'clock at one of the islands of the Percy Group. Somewhat before that hour, he brought his sea-horse into good anchorage, in seveteen fathoms water at lsland No. 2. I could not help regretting, and others expressed similar regrets, that these islands are not called after some well known historic names instead of being only numerically described on the charts as No. 1, 2, &c., which causes some confusion in referring to them. When all was made snug, an exodus of impetuous passengers — the quarter boats having beengot ready for them —-took place. Geologists conchologists, &c, with their appliances, were ready for scientific observation. But there was another matter of moment to be considered. It had been whispered that the blacks werely likely to be troublesome, and had no objection, perhaps, to a cutlet a la savans or on a savant. We, therefore, took the precaution of arming ourselves, and so muskets, revolvers, and other arms came into acquisition. In this moment of excitement, mingled with apprehension, Mr. Ford relieved our minds by exciting our risible faculties. He admitted and he spoke in his quiet peculiar way—that the niggers were very dangerous; but he dreaded far more possible attacks from each other; and, consequently strongly recommended us to keep as wide apart as we could, and to shoot low!' The island (No. 2) is very hilly, and the south side shelves towards the water's edge. Some of the passengers brought from this island specimens of the pandanus, or bread-fruit. The island is abound with light palms, interland with luxuriant tropical creepers. The flats are full of thick mangroves. Turtles are numerous on the beach. We found one nest with about thirty eggs in it. Some of the freshest looking were cooked for tea; but the albumen did not act in accordance with the desire of the cook; for although the yolks were 'done to a nicety,' the white, or pale grey, was rather slimy and tasteless. The passengers brought back from the island trophies of their visit in the shape of black and white cockatoos, snails, shells, coral, green ants which build their tiny domiciles so as to resemble in the distance birds' nests. At 6 p.m. the signal gun was fired from the steamer, for all hands to get on board; but notwithstanding this precaution, four remained behind, perhaps to catch turtle. After some time a boat was sent after the lost sheep, who were recovered and 'folded' in their respective pens, tired no doubt with their day's wanderings; after this little expedition there was considerable jollity on board, with the exception of the steward, who was disgusted at the mass of specimens piled about the berths and cabin.
The evening was pleasantly, and I might add, musically passed, one of the passengnrs having volunteered to entertain us on the banjo. A very effective chorus rendered, 'Going through Georgia,' in a manner never before heard in those latitudes. Before sundown I took the opportunity of photographing the islund No. 3 of this group. Although the vessel was rocking considerably, I could not resist the desire of trying to get a picture of this bold insular elevation, with a glorious tropical sun setting behind it. I never before had the temerity to work from a vessel in motion, or point a lens towards the sun. I, nevertheless, succeeded—to my surprise in obtaining a sharp, clear picture.
We sailed at 4 o clock the following morning, the trade-wind still continuing. The passengers were chiefly occupied sketching or preserving the several specimens obtained the previous day. The sporting element in our little community devoted their time to the cleansing of their muskets and pistols. We passed the Black Swan, one of the A.S,N. Company's steamers, bound to some northerly port, and exchanged signals with her in the hope she would report us—which, however, she forgot to do.
From this point the navigation became exceedingly intricate, requiring the greatest vigilance on the part of our ever-watchful commander. There were rocks, shoals, sandbanks, and reefs in all directions; and it was found necessary to keep a man aloft continually on the look-out. We could only move forward in the daytime.
We were now some miles within the Barrier Reef. The water was of a bright sap-green colour, and presented one smooth unruffled surface. Many of the company had looked anxously for this tranquil portion of the voyage, in the hope of getting rid of their seasick feelings; nor were they disappointed. The appearance of these islands, with the exception of Pine Island, which we passed during this and the next day, exhibited all the marked peculiarities of the Australian Groups. On Sunday, December 3rd, we passed the Palm Islands. Divine service was performed by the Rev. W. Scott, formerly Government Astronomer, Sydney Observatory, and now rector of St. Pauls College. His subject was the 'Presence of God in the soul of man.' It was a truly devotional and impressive sermon.
Fears were now entertained regarding our supply of water, and it was decided make for the Fitzroy Islands to replenish our tanks, We anchored at dark amid a heavy squall, at one of the Frankland groups. On Monday, 4th December, we started at 5 a.m., and anchored at Fitzroy Island at (about) 6 p.m. A boat's crew was sent on shore to report on the water. They found a capital supply and easy of access, the heat had been excessive during the day, relieved by occasional tropical showers. Several of the party made excursions through the island —Messrs. Moore, Brazier. and Walters returning with a good supply of botanical and other specimens.
We started next morning at day-break, and about 12, wo made the Endeavour River. Cape Bedford presents a singular appearance. It is crowned by a flat-topped hill. During the day we passed several other, islands, making the Lizard Island at 5 p.m., about which I shall give some interesting particulars in my next.
[TO BE CONTINUED.]

There was the usual lowering of boats and rush of passengers shoreward. For the first time during our voyage we noticed the foot-prints of natives on the sand; for although the aborigines of the mainland occasionally visit the islands previously referred to by me, in quest of turtle, we had not on any former occasion noticed their immediate presence, or signs of a recent visit, till we had reached Lizard Island. As we neared the land, we were astonished to see what looked from the distance to be a fragment of wall, tumbling to decay, but sharply-defined against the warm background. After exploration we found that a habitation, built by civilized hands, had been erected here, and that the object which had seemed so surprising at a distance, was undoubtedly the wall of a residence erected by some persons years ago-probably parties engaged in the beche-le-mer trade. This was not the only surprise. On the face of the wall was a well-drawn cross of the St. George pattern, painted with a thick black pigment, the upright beam being fully ten feet in height, and the transverse, or horizontal bar, at least six feet in length. There were letters cut in deep relief into the upright section of the cross which caused considerable speculation amongst the more learned of the party.
Well, we digged accordingly, and had soon abundance of evidence to convince us that a bottle, or something else, had been deposited in the ground under the cross. The deposit may, in all logical possibility, have been a treasure. If so, it had been removed, so far as our hurried exploration justifies such an assertion. I dare not speak confidently. The speculative may, if they like, make further search—perhaps with ultimate profit to themselves. At all events, a smart yacht's crew will always be able to spend a delightful holiday in and about those islands, even should they fail in dropping on a 'treasure-trove.'
On the evening of this day (December 5th), a free discussion was held in the cabin by all interested, as to the place for making scientific observation of the solar eclipse due on the 12th instant. Opinion was very much divided between the mainland and an island numbered on the chart, No. 6, Claremont Group. The objection to the first proposition (landing at Cape Sidmouth) was partly nautical and partly through a sense of self-preservation. It was asserted that shallow water lay all around Cape Sidmouth for a distance of three miles seawards; and that, consequently, great, if not insuperable difficulties would arise in landing our instruments. We had further learned that a fierce tribe of aborigines occupied the country about the Cape. In fact, we had had positive indications of great excitement amongst the natives on the mainland. For miles and miles along the coast we had noticed vast bushfires, lit with the regularity of signal-fires, at distances (from each point of conflagration) of not more on the average than twenty miles; and it was generally believed that absolute danger menaced any party attempting a landing. Mr Moore, and those who, like him, were botanically affected, under-rated that danger; but the opinion of the majority prevailed. We should have divided our party, but we had not adequate appliances.
Besides, all admitted that Cape Sidmouth was subject to heavy fogs, which would seriously interfere with accurate observation of the eclipse, while the island—ten miles distant was not likely to be exposed to such an unhoped for visitation. Tho island—No. 6, Claremont Group'—was, therefore, selected. Subsequent events proved the wisdom of this choice; for had we gone on the mainland, while no better result in a scientific point of view would have been achieved, we should have been detained for a considerable time in regaining the steamer, in consequence of the strong south-east winds prevailing. In fact, Mr. Moore and a volunteer crew did make the mainland, on Saturday, 9th December, and used every effort to return on the Sunday. After boating about all day, they failed to reach the Governor Blackall; and it was not till Monday afternoon they succeeded in getting onboard. Night Island, when the eclipse could, as matters eventuated, have been successfully observed, was urged as a suitable place of landing; but the fatal objection to this spot was that the duration of totality (during the solar eclipse was too short to satisfy the scientific aspirations of a great majority of the company. Hence, as before stated, Claremont Island was determined to be the scene of those investigations on account of which we had journeyed (on the whole pleasantly) so far, I may as well here mention that this island lies in latitude 13-27 south.
On the 6th we left the Lizard Island. The navigation continued to be extremely intricate, and called forth the boat qualities of our commander. At 2 p.m. it was announced that Cape Sidmouth was in sight, distance about thirty miles. All eyes were soon strained on the shadowy outline, which in an hour or so became more distinctly visible as land. Holding on till near 5 p.m., at last what appeared to be a dark expanse of sandbank lay before us. 'Claremont Island, at last!' was the cry in several parts of the steamer. Nor were we without a welcome. From the cheerless spot described flock after flock of aquatic birds white, grey, brown, and mottled-rose in the air, wheeled in irregular curves in the neighbourhood of the vessel, causing a disagreeable din by their stridulent screams and shrill cries. The sky was dark with them; and from the way they conducted themselves, they were evidently astonished at the arrival of such a sea-monster as the Governor Blackall in their wild domain. Soon after, an observing party was sent on shore to ascertain whether the place was suitable for the objects of the expedition. They returned in a short time, and said it was suitable, but rather astonished us with the news that it was occupied by a colony of English rats. How the progenitors of those creatures first came on the island it would be useless to speculate; it is certain they have increased and multiplied; although, as there is not a drop of fresh water to be found in their arid territory, it is somewhat surprising how they manage to allay their thirst. Proper precautions were taken to keep these vermin away from our tents, &c., when set up.
The next morning our disembarkation began: and for the next three days we worked with unflagging zeal, notwithstanding the oppressive character of the climate, in preparing for the great event. There were eight or nine tents set up, the instruments put in position, my own special appliances all arranged in order, and the whole party were on the qui vivo for the long anticipated moment of observing a solar eclipse, under circumstances calculated to do credit to the Australian colonies, and services to the cause of science. We had taken a quantity of bricks and compost with us in order that suitable stands might be erected for the more important instruments. It was astonishing how quickly the presence and skill of civilized man changed the appearance of this desolate spot of ocean. Its scanty vegetation contrasted well with the shimmering whiteness of the tents; and as the voices of men at work, or giving orders, resounded through the hot heavy atmosphore, one was led for a moment to fancy he was at home, engaged at his usual employments.
On the afternoon of the 11th, everything was ready for the next day's observations. The atmosphere was close and heavy, slightly relieved by the south-east trade. The clouds began to mass ominously about 5p.m. causing apprehensions as to what the morrow would be in a weather point of view.
After dinner (6 p.m.) the major portion of the company got on deck, and noticed the marked indications of a coming storm. It came soon. The intense grey light faded away—dull clouds dashed with indigo tints, settled over the sea in all directions—flashes of sheet lightning glared at all points of the compass, causing deeper gloom after each spectral irradiation. At last the thunder broke out—peal after peal, then volley after volloy, like the rattle of artillery close at hand. The steamer shook and quivered in every part. rain followed such rain! Now a sudden downward rush of water, presently a sweeping shower; in the meantime the lightning assumed a new character. It seemed to have concentrated nearer to us and absolutely cracked in the murky air overhead. We could hear its sphitz sphatz as it broke against the masts or the sides of the vessel. The passengers remained for a considerable time on the dock during this pitiless storm; and then attempted to find relief down below. The closeness of the atmosphere however, was so oppressive, that they soon sought the deck again, utterly regardless of the drenching rain. For full two hours did this commotion of nature last, then it seemed to die away—the lightning played at a greater distance; but the peculiar gloom in the air continued. Rain of a more steady character begun to fall about 9 p.m., but at midnight there was to the eastward a patch of clear sky. Our hopes began to revive. It will be a glorious day to-morrow,' some one cried out. ' We shall have it fine,' said another. With these mutual consolatory assurances we sought short repose. The portion of the party guarding the tents and instruments on shore fared much worse than the ship party did.
They had to use their blankets and rugs to cover the instruments, and were unable to got the slightest rest during the awful night. Early in the morning we were on the alert. The sky was covered with masses of cloud, broken by occasional squalls, and revealing here and there, occasionally, grey-blue patches of the heavens. This gave us a hope that by noon we should have clear weather, although the frequency of short lived drifting showers caused anxiety. Noon came, and the blueish cumulus clouds were unbroken, the rainy squalls continuing. The whole party was now assembled on the island, each close to his special apparatus, or with telescope, in hand. One o'clock! still rainy and squally; half-past one, a gleam of hope-something like a break; 2 o'clock, another squall ; and then all hope vanished.
At a few minutes past 3 the presence of an awful gloom, beyond the darkness of the clouds, was perceptible. There was just one instant's rent in the cloudy-mass, and we saw quite enough to know that contact had begun. The clouds closed again, and all was dark; but still there was palpably blended with the gloom the presence of another strange darkness.
In the direction of the sun, during totality, an arc of shadow, as if tinted in Indian ink, passed across a portion of the heaven evidently in the line of the moon's course, and travelling at the moon's apparent rate of progress. Every face bore as deep a shadow as Nature did. We all realized, about the same moment, that we had come in vain; and disappointment silenced every tongue for several minutes, broken only by the monotonous announcements of the zealous individual who was calling out the seconds from the chronometer. 'It is all over,' somebody at last cried out, but still the indisposition to speak about the event continued. To say we did not at once fully realize our disappointment, may be true; but we certainly, in the end had a very adequate sense of it. 
As for Mr Russell and myself, we performed every part of our duty just the same as if the eclipse had occurred under the most, favourable services. The photographic plates were prepared, exposure and development, according to directions from England, were made and everything done to obtain some valuable result even after we had ceased to hope that any such result could follow.
About 4 p.m. the order was issued to make ready for our departure. In less than three hours we had everything that was worth removing safely stowed away on board our good iron ship. Before we had left the island we noticed the approach of a vessel. It turned out to be the Matilda. In a short time the captain, chief officer, and the master of the Active—a vessel recently lost—came on board the Governor Blackall. They announced they had seen the eclipse, although they were totally unprepared for such an occurrence, not having had a nautical almanac on board. They were severally examined by Messrs. Ellery, Russell, and Wilson; they said that the obscuration of the sun had occurred while they were at Night Island, eighteen miles distant in a northerly direction; they had observed the corona—and they all agreed in describing the phenomenon as one of striking wonder and beauty.
And now our anxiety was to get away. Next morning we steamed on our course, and as we cast a last glance on Claremont Island, it looked like a deserted diggings, the poles of the tents standing bare as we had left them. From the top of the wooden photographic dark-room, one of the sailors had suspended a shattered umbrella, which fluttered and shivered in the morning air. About 7 o'clock we lost sight of the sandbank, the best name I can give our late island home. The weather was close and murky. We experienced a great relief from passing quickly through the water, particularly in the cabin which, up to this time, had been intolerably close.
The passengers occupied themselves in arranging their collections of specimens or cleaning their arms. In the afternoon we anchored to the lee of No. 6, Howard Group. Some of the passengers went ashore for half-an-hour, and succeeded (by diving) in procuring fine specimens of coral.
On Saturday, 16th December, the planet Venus was vividly apparent long after sunrise. We reached Cardwell in the morning. This township consists of about thirty houses on a narrow strip of beach. The luxuriance of the vegetation, reaching almost to the water's edge, gave the scene a tropical character. The hamlet is backed by a bold range of mountains, over which the telegraph line to the Gulf of Carpentaria, now in the course of completion, has been carried. We left Cardwell at 3 p.m., and on Sunday (17th), at noon, entered Whitsunday Passage. The coast scenery from this point, southwards, is of a varied almost a fairy-character. While passing a portion of this coast, on our way upwards, I succeeded in photographing a considerable portion of it; and I succeeded beyond my most sanguine expectations, in reproducing the elevations, depressions, projections, &c, with an accuracy impossible in hand-drawings. With a series of photographic coast-line sketches, the Master Mariner can tell exactly where he is (from ocular observation and comparison) at any hour, by day or night. The value of such a guide can not be too highly estimated by all interested in the difficult (if not dangerous) navigation of our iron-bound and irregular coast. I have no hesitation in saying that by this process, intolerably fair weather, about thirty miles of continuous coast could be taken in a day.
On the 19th, at 3 a.m., the Great Sand Spit was sighted; and at 7 p.m., off Cape Moreton, we received the pilot on board, and at 11 p.m. arrived near the mouth of the Brisbane River. Next day we proceeded up that sluggish and tortuous stream, and at 5 p.m. our vessel was made fast to the Company's wharf.
It is due to the public spirit and hospitable habits of the Government and leading citizens of Brisbane, to acknowledge the handsome manner in which we were received and kindly entertained there. Free quarters were provided for us during our stay at the Queensland Club. His Excellency the Governor visited the Governor Blackall on the 21st, and showed, by his manner, that he fully appreciated our efforts. We were also the recipients of an invitation for an excursion—by coach and train—to the Darling Downs, which we thankfully accepted. This excursion enabled us to see some fine portions of Queensland scenery, and to enjoy the invigorating air of the country—very agreeable after our late torrid experiences.
I have nothing further to add, except that a testimonial to Lieutenant Gowland was almost spontaneously got up on board, as some slight recognition of his high and varied qualities as a commander, his urbanity as a gentleman, and his uniform kindness to every individual connected with the Eclipse Expedition of 1871. 
Source: Australian Town and Country Journal (Sydney, NSW : 1870 - 1919) Sat 6 Jan 1872 Page 25



Astronomers, Australian Eclipse Expedition, 1871, possibly by Beaufoy Merlin

1872 - [RETIREMENT]
A. AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY, 324, George-street.
Mr. MERLIN, in retiring from the management of the N. S. Wales branch of the above Company, desires to tender his hearty thanks to the public for their liberal patronage during the last 15 months, and avails himself of this opportunity of introducing to his late patrons his successor,
Mr. CARLISLE,
under whose management in future (assisted by a picked photographic staff) this well-known studio will be conducted.
The Reception Rooms will be long and favourably known to the élite of Sydney, in connection with the Gallery of Oswald Allen. The Company's usual prices will strictly be adhered to.
Source: The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954) Mon 5 Feb 1872 Page 1

1872 - A AND A. PHOTO. COMPANY, 324, George street.
—The Company have much pleasure in announcing that they have (since the change in the management) effected great alterations and improvements in the gallery. Sitters may now rely upon having a first-class photo, at the usual price of 10s 6d per dozen.
The reception rooms and posing will be under the direct supervision of Miss TURNER, so long known in connexion with the gallery of Oswald Allen. Every attention will be paid to visitors.
ALEXANDER CARLISLE, Manager.
From Oswald Allen's.
N.B. Appointments for sittings may now be made.
Source: The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954) Tue 13 Feb 1872 Page 10

1873 - [BATHURST]
Mr. Merlin is photographing Bathurst for Holtermann's Exposition.

1873 - [ORANGE]
While on my road, close to Orange, I met the equipage of Mr. Beaufoy Merlin, the photographer and collector for Holtemann's intended Grand Exhibition. Mr. Merlin is sparing neither time nor pains, taking views of all places of interest throughout the districts he travels, and obtaining specimens of various industries en route. The object is a noble one, and bids fair to be a grand success.
1873 - [THE EXPOSITION]
In the intercolonial exposition of the Australian colonies, so spiritedly projected by Mr. Holtermann for drawing European attention to this country and its resources, few things can he better adapted to dissipate the gross ignorance that prevails in the Northern Hemisphere about Australia than the prompt realization of the first section of the programme which has been adopted. It will be remembered that in this section it is proposed to have an elaborate series of well-executed photographic views of every town in all these colonies, showing the principal streets and public buildings, &c. These large and more elaborate views are to be glass transparencies, enlarged from the originals and vividly coloured. In the same section there are also to be large-sized albums of each town, with other ready means of information.
Mr. Beaufoy Merlin has taken a considerable number of photographic views of Sydney for his first section of the "Exposition," which are as remarkable for the beauty of their finish as they are commendable for the good taste displayed in regard to the selection of each locality to be represented. The album abounds with pleasing views of the environs of Sydney — especially the well-known and beautiful suburbs to the eastward.
Source: The Sydney Mail and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1871 - 1912) Sat 2 Aug 1873 Page 145

1873 - [EXPOSITION]
Mr. Beaufoy Merlin has taken a considerable number of photographic views of Sydney for the first section of "Holtermann's Intercolonial Exposition."

1873 - DEATHS
At his residence, Abercrombie-street, on September 27th, after a short illness, Mr. Beaufoy Merlin, deeply and widely regretted.

1873 - Death of Mr. Beaufoy Merlin. 
The numerous friends of the above gentleman throughout the colony will learn with deep regret that he died, after a very short illness, on Saturday afternoon, of inflammation of the lungs supervening upon the epidemic (a kind of influenza) which has lately been so general in Sydney. Mr. Merlin had won the esteem of a wide circle of friends by his great kind ness of heart, and singularly unpretentious, straight forward, and genial character. Enegretic. temperate and active to a remarkable degree, his unexpected decease will surprise as well as grieve all to whom he was known. As a photographic artist he was almost without a rival, while his talents as a writer were of a very snperior kind, although want of leisure greatly interfered with bis literary tastes.
Source: Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931) Mon 29 Sep 1873 Page 2

1873 - [DEATH]
Tbe news of tbe death of Mr. Merlin has caused much surprise aud sorrow here [Bathurst] to-day.
Source:  Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931) Tue 30 Sep 1873 Page 2

1873 - [DEATH]
Mr. Beaufoy Merlin, the photographic artist, died in Sydney on Sunday from in flammation of the lungs which followed an attack of influenza. He was widely known and much respected. It may be remembered that he wrote a spirited sketch of the struggles of Mr. Julius Holtermann at Hawkins Hill, to which we referred some time ago. He had travelled as photographer to the American Photographic Company.

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