Glass Negatives Collection
Glass negatives are a window into the past, preserving moments frozen in time with remarkable clarity
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Glass negatives are a window into the past, preserving moments frozen in time with remarkable clarity. These fragile plates hold the stories of countless expeditions and explorations, capturing the essence of bygone eras. One such adventure was the USFC Steamer "Albatross" Survey of the Bahamas in 1886. The United States National Museum Photographic Laboratory meticulously documented this voyage, using glass negatives to immortalize stunning landscapes and marine life that thrived beneath turquoise waters. In 1888, the same steamer embarked on a daring Circumnavigation of South America. Once again, these glass negatives became witnesses to breathtaking vistas along uncharted coastlines and provided invaluable scientific data for further study. Beyond scenic wonders, it also captured portraits that reveal personal tales from history's pages. Emil Bessels donned a fur parka as he posed for his portrait in 1880 - an image preserved by the United States National Museum. Through this photograph, we catch a glimpse of Bessels' adventurous spirit and dedication to exploration. The USFC Steamer "Albatross" continued its mission by surveying Fishing Banks from Newport to Newfoundland. They were employed not only to document fish populations but also to capture scenes of hardworking fishermen braving treacherous seas in pursuit of their livelihoods. Journeying northward during the Northern Alaska Exploring Expedition (1884-1886), intrepid explorers ventured into uncharted territories armed with cameras loaded with glass negatives. Although their creators remain unknown today, these images offer us glimpses into Arctic landscapes untouched by human hands. The USFC Steamer "Albatross" returned once more to survey the Bahamas in 1886 - yet another chapter etched onto delicate glass plates. These records serve as valuable resources for scientists studying changes in marine ecosystems over time. Through each expedition undertaken aboard the United States Fish Commission Steamer "Albatross, " glass negatives became silent witnesses to the wonders of nature and human exploration.