I am a photographic historian writing a book entitled, "Photographing
Abraham Lincoln in
Illinois."
The earliest photographer in
Danville, IL. is listed as "W. Lacy" 1854-1855 in the town directory and later listed as a 'pedler'in the 1860 Census. To my knowledge he would have been the only photographer operating when
Lincoln and Thomas J. Hilliard were photographed and exchanged portraits at
Danville, IL. on May 27, 1857. Amon J.T. Joslin does not arrive until the 1860's.
Does anybody have any biographical information about "W. Lacy" ? The 1860 Census finds him at
Danville, IL., age 59, b.
New Jersey about 1801, living with Elizabeth
Lacy, age 81, born
New Jersey. I assume this is his mother.Household also contains Mary
Cole, age 57; John H. Lacy, age 16;
Dannie Cole, age 17.
Any information about W. Lacy would be greatly appreciated.