Copyright © 2022 by Wendy Waszut-Barrett
In 1873, Joseph Sosman assisted scenic artist T. B. Harrison at the Chandler Opera House in Macomb,. Illinois. At the time, Sosman was well-known as a sign painter in town, having moved to Macomb only eight years earlier.
On April 17, 1873, “The Macomb Journal” reported, “SCENE PAINTING. As well as the entire design and arrangements of the stage is the handiwork of the eminent artist, T. B. Harrison, of Chicago. The stage, of course, is the focal point of all the attractions of the establishment and he who took the task of its design and execution has indeed an onerous one. But the one who looks upon the work of Mr. Harrison will decide that he has in masterly manner accomplished more than was expected. In the painting he has been ably assisted by our young friend, Joe Sosman; Joe has superior abilities, and our citizens will wake up some fine morning and fin in him, that Macomb has a first-class artist” (page 3). Sosman continued to make the Macomb news over the years, as this small town followed his continued success as a scenic artist and founder of Sosman & Landis.
This was a turning point in Sosman’s career, initiating his shift from sign painting to scenic art. In regard to Harrison, Sosman could not have selected a better mentor.
This post is about the life and career of Thomas B. Harrison (1836-1895). In later years, Harrison was remembered by citizens of Clinton, Missouri, as an “erratic genius” (June 23, 1900, “The Clinton Eye”). Harrison must have greatly inspired Joe Sosman at the beginning of his career. Here was an individual who appears to have dreamed big, trying his hand at everything within reach. Harrison was also key to the later Chicago connections for Sosman, facilitating many introductions for Sosman’s later success.
I do wonder how involved Harrison was with the mechanical engineering at Sosman and Landis throughout the 1880s and early 1890s. I also wonder how much he really contributed to the firm, contributions that made Sosman so loyal to Harrison throughout his life.
Newspaper accounts purport that Thomas Benjamin Harrison was born in Hull, England, on February 16, 1836. However, I have yet to locate any definitive proof. Harrison’s baptismal records were dated less than a week later on Feb. 21, 1836, in Selby in North Yorkshire. For geographical context, the Selby is approximately 38 miles due west of Hull, with a river and canal system connecting to two. In 1840 the railway from Selby to Hull opened, expanding transportation options.
Thomas was the eldest of two children born to Benjamin Harrison (1804-1891) and Ann Smith (1804-?). Benjamin and Ann’s Marriage Banns, dated from May 15, 1834, in nearby Leeds. This is the same year that the Leeds and Selby Railway was completed, further expanding transportation options for local residents. Leeds is approximately 25 miles due west of Selby. Selby is approximately halfway between Hull and Leeds. Here is a great link to an article about Selby that was published in the “Yorkshire Post” – https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/heritage-and-retro/heritage/history-selby-once-port-west-riding-and-reputed-birthplace-henry-i-2936178
The 1841 England Census listed the Harrison family as living in Selby. Household members included head-of-household Benjamin Harrison (35 yrs.), wife Ann (35 yrs.), son Thomas (5 yrs.) and daughter Ann (1 yr.). Sometime between the 1841 census and 1847, the Harrisons relocated south to Oxfordshire. In 1847 Benjamin Harrison was listed as a cabinet maker, located at 28 St. Aldate’s street. It remains unclear as to what prompted the move or what exactly happened to his first wife; I have yet to locate any death certificate.
In 1849, Benjamin Harrison married a second time. He and Sarah Schutt were wed at St. Wilfrid’s Church in Calverley on Feb. 18, 1849. Calverley is approximately six miles northwest of Leeds.
Soon after their marriage, the Harrisons emigrated to the United States of America. Sailing aboard the Columbus, their arrival is documented in an Arriving Passenger Crew List, dated June 29, 1850. At the time, the Harrison family included Benjamin (46 yrs. cabinet maker), wife Sarah (41 yrs.), and four children: Thomas (14 yrs.), Ann (10 yrs.), Charles (9 yrs.) and unnamed infant. I have yet to confirm if Charles was the biological son of Benjamin and his first wife, or Sarah’s child from a previous marriage. He could have even been relative, simply traveling with the couple at the time, which may be possible as he disappeared shortly after arrival.
The Columbus sailed with 661 passengers from Liverpool to New York. Amazingly, the Harrison family is even included in the publication, “The Famine Immigrants: Lists of Irish Immigrants Arriving at the Port of New York, 1846-1851 Vil VI (June 1850-March 1851)” by Ira Glazier and Michael Tepper (Baltimore: Genealogical Publishing Co., 1985, pp. 1-150).
The Harrison family was also counted in the 1850 US Federal Census. At the time, they were living in Bloomfield, Clinton County, Iowa. Oddly, only two of the four children from the ship’s passenger list were listed in the census report: Thomas (15 yrs.) and Anne (11 yrs.). It remains uncertain if 9 yrs. old Charles and the infant passed away, or if they were reunited with relatives. There were only a few months in between their arrival and the census report.
Six years later, the Harrisons were living in nearby Maquoketa, Iowa, counted in the State census. The 1856 Iowa census listed 52-yrs.-old Benjamin Harrison as a cabinet maker, living with his wife Sarah (47 yrs. old) and four children: Thomas Harrison (20 yrs.), William H. (4 yrs.), Sarah J. (2 yrs.), and Mary A. (1 yr.). These were all the biological children of Benjamin and Ann, born after the couple’s arrival in America, and when Sarah was in her mid-40s; Thomas’ half-siblings. The 1850 census also listed Thomas Harrison’s occupation as a painter. Later reports purport that Harrison’s artistic and academic training were solely obtained in England, but this would have been only until the age of 14.
The 1860 US Federal Census report listed that the Harrison family household included Benjamin (58 yrs.), Sarah (50 yrs.), William (8 yrs.), Sarah (7 yrs.) and Mary (5 yrs.), all still living in Maquoketa. By this time, Thomas was 24-yrs.-old and living on his own. I have yet to locate his whereabouts between 1857-1861. He briefly disappears from public records until 1862 when he enlisted in the Iowa Infantry. He possibly traveled as an itinerant painter, going from town to town throughout the region, as was common with many scenic artists at the time.
Harrison’s US Civil War draft registration card listed his occupation as “painter.” At the time, he was 27 yrs. old. The US Army register of enlistments provides addition information about this young unmarried man. His appearance was listed as black, hair, black eyes, and a ruddy complexion. Harrison enlisted Sept. 30, 1862, as a 2nd Lieutenant in Co. B., 26th Iowa Infantry. He was soon discharged, however, due to constant illness. He served a second time, with the same company. Harrison’s obituary remembered, “He saw much service and was twice severally wounded at Fort Donelson and in Arkansas, from the effects of which he never recovered. He was a true soldier and patriot.” Harrison mustered out on March 10, 1863, in Young’s Point, Louisiana. From Louisiana, he headed to New York. By fall, he sailed from New York to New Orleans aboard the Evening Star. On Oct 18, 1863, “The New York Times” listed T. B. Harrison of a steamship passenger bound from New Orleans (page 8).
From New Orleans, Harrison moved to Chicago, where he rapidly rising to the top of his profession as a scenic and easel artist. In 1864, Harrison was listed a one of several artists exhibiting their oil paintings at Jevne & Almini’s. The group included two other well-known scenic artists such as Minard Lewis and William Voegtlin. On June 17 – 20, 1864, a “Chicago Tribune” advertisement announced:
“Chicago Artist’s Sale, by Gilbert & Sampson, of Fine Oil Paintings, at Auction. We will sell on Tuesday Evening, June 21st at 8 o’clock precisely, the fine collection of Oil Paintings, by Chicago Artists, which have been on exhibition at Jevne & Almini’s, and are now removed to our salesroom, in order to accommodate those who wish to purchase and could not get admittance at the room on Washington street. All the paintings exhibited at our room will be sold without reserve. The paintings of the artists who had someone to bid on their paintings unbeknown to the others will not be put into the sale. The paintings will be on exhibition day and evening until the time of the sale (Sundays excepted.) This collection has been very much admired and are from the hands of our best artists, viz: H. C. Ford, Mrs. Nicholson, J. H. Drury, Paul Brown, P. Fishe Read, Jacob Cox, J. R. Sloan, D. F. Bigelow, Alfred Sederberger, Belden J. Woodman, Kaye E. Cameron, H. N. Gager, Mary A. Thomas, Wm. Voegtlin, Miss E. Mackway, Minard Lewis, Mrs. Hall and T. B. Harrison. The attention of all our citizens who are in want of good paintings particularly called to this sale, and are invited to call and see then while on exhibition. Gilbert & Sampson” (page 4).
Now, this places a few key players in the same group. Harrison was intimately involved with the Chicago Academy of Design (CAD) and the Chicago Academy of Fine Arts. There is a fascinating article by John Dryer entitled “The Demise of the Chicago Academy of Design and the Rise of the Art Institute of Chicago (“Journal of the Illinois State Historical Society” Vol. 113 Nos. 3-4 Fall/Winter 2020). According to Dryer, “Shortly after the war ended, the CAD was founded in 1866. Its stated purpose was to offer artists a studio to rent, regular exhibitions and teaching ateliers.” By 1867, many of the organizations activities were held at the top floor of the newly constructed Crosby Opera House on Washington Street.
To place this within the history of American scenic art, Lou Malmsha (1845-1882) was one of the scenic artists who worked at Crosby’s Opera House during this time. He initially trained with Mr. Arragon at the venue, having emigrated from Sweden in 1863. By 1866, Malmsha was also painting scenery in New York, and was listed as one of the scenic artists who delivered scenery for the original production of “The Black Cook” at Niblo’s Garden.
Thomas G. Moses trained with Malmsha in 1873, at the same time that Sosman trained with Harrison. Both Moses and Malmsha also worked at P. M. Almini’s during this time as decorative painters. Late in life, Moses recalled the talents of Malmsha, writing, “He was a very clever man. In all the years that have passed since then, I have never found a man that could do so little and get so much out of his work, very simple in drawing and color, but very effective.”
In 1868, Harrison was listed as one of the Committee members for a Chicago Academy of Design event, held at Crosby’s Opera House. At the time, there were approximately sixty members in the organization.
On March 3, 1868, the “Chicago Evening Post” included T. B. Harrison was listed as a Committee member or the tableaux vivant, a featured event for the Chicago Academy of Design art reception at the Opera House (page 4). The tableaux scenes that were reproduced included The Laocoon Groupe; Fighting for the Dead Body of Patrocius, as seen on the frieze of the Parthenon; Dirce; Thorwaldsen’s Apollo and the Muses; Groupings from Raphael and Murillo; and a scene reproducing the features of ancient Egyptian art. The article reported, “The effects of these pictures, given living figures, will be indescribably beautiful and afford something that has never been presented in this city. Tickets can only be attained from the Committee, which is composed of the following gentlemen: Chas. Knickerbocker, U. H. Crosby, Conrad Diehl, H. C. Ford, Walter Shirlaw, J. F. Gookins, Louis Kurtz, Chas. H. Brower, P. Almini, Chas. Peck, J. F. Aitken, G. S. Collis, T. B. Harrison, G. A. Binkert, W. B Baird, or at Room No. 9 Opera House.”
There are a few things to note about some of the abovementioned individuals in this group. In 1865 Jevne & Almini joined with Louis Kurtz to form the Chicago Lithographing Co. Their portfolios provide great insight into the bustling city of Chicago before the great fire of 1871. Kurtz, a German emigrant, moved to Chicago in 1864 where he worked as a scenic artist at both Crosby’s Opera House and McVicker’s Theatre.
The Chicago Academy of Design held private gatherings and public events at Crosby’s Opera House prior to the great Chicago Fire of 1871. The organization’s art exhibitions were frequently featured at the Crosby Art Gallery or in The Almini & Jevne Building on Clark Street. The CAD also leased space at a new building on Adams Street by 1870.
For a little more context, after the 1871 fire, Jevne and Almini separated, each going their own way and founded two new companies: Otto Jevne & Co., 226 E. Washington Street and P. M. Almini & Co., 344 State Street. Almini remained much more active with the CAD, constantly employing many of the artists.
Although CAD membership greatly declined after the firs, in 1872 the Council of the Chicago Academy of Design rented L. W. Volk’s building at the corner of Michigan Avenue and Van Buren Street (Chicago Tribune 18 Oct 1872, p 8). Leonard Wells Volk (1828-1895) was a sculptor and president of the CAD. This was a period of great transition for the CAD, helping prompt the rise of the Chicago Academy of Fine Arts.
Like many scenic artists after the fire, Harrison travelled throughout the country again, securing work as a scene painter, photographer, lecturer, and inventor. He sporadically appeared various directories across the country.
Keep in mind that his travels also coincide with the onset of the Long Depression in 1873, and economic downturn that and lasted until 1879. This period of financial struggle is considered the first Great Depression in the United States. The event prompted many artists to expand their services, and immediately grasp at any business opportunity that came their way.
The 1873 Chicago Directory listed Thomas Harrison as a photographer at 79 Blue Island Ave. Again, this was a common listing for many scenic artists who were very active in early photographic endeavors. They accepted a variety of projects that included, photography, interior décor, sign painting, carriage painting and illustration. Photograph was also the same occupation as Harrison’s later short-term business partner Ed Pearce.
In 1873 Harrison was likely accepting any work that came his way. It was at this time that he painted scenery at Chandler’s New Opera House in Macomb, Illinois. Again, it was in Macomb that he met, befriended, and trained Joe Sosman. Chandler’s New Opera House opened on Monday, April 21, 1873. Constructed by C. V. Chandler as a cost of $30,000, work commenced on April 7, 1872. The theater was located on the second floor of the building, with retail occupying the first floor. The lower story was 16’ high and the second story was 24’ high. The seating arrangements were divided as follows: level floor (60×40, 850 chairs); the rear 20×60 is separated by low balustrade, the seats five in number, rising one above another to the rear, thus giving the farthest from the stage an elevated position; about 175 persons can, with ample room for each occupy this division….Dress circle, or gallery seats 225.
On April 17, 1873, “The Macomb Journal” reported, “SCENE PAINTNG. As well as the entire design and arrangements of the stage is the handiwork of the eminent artist, T. B. Harrison, of Chicago. The stage, of course, is the focal point of all the attractions of the establishment and he who took the task of its design and execution has indeed an onerous one. But the one who looks upon the work of Mr. Harrison will decide that he has in masterly manner accomplished more than was expected. In the painting he has been ably assisted by our young friend, Joe Sosman; Joe has superior abilities, and our citizens will wake up some fine morning and fin in him, that Macomb has a first-class artist” (page 3).
On May 8 and 15, 1873, “The Macomb Journal” reported, “Oh! How beautiful! A thing of beauty is a joy forever. They include nearly every scene now finished in Chandler’s magnificent new Opera House and all are for sale any size card, stereoscopic, or 8 x 10. These pictures are from the paintings by Prof. T. B. Harrison, who is a master in his profession. They can be had at Hover & Zumbro’s, East Side Square” (page 3).
Harrison continued to travel throughout the country, and briefly settled in Boston during 1874. On Jan. 16, 1874, the “Chicago Tribune” announced Harrison’s arrival at the Sherman House in Chicago (p. 7). Despite extended travels, Harrison maintained a home with Edward Pearce in Macomb, Illinois, until 1875. On Jan. 7 and 14, 1875, “The Macomb Journal” announced, “Prof. T. B. Harrison and Ed Pearce have gone to make their home in the city of Quincy. How the band will get along without them we can’t tell” (page 3).
Pearce returned to Macomb two years later. On Oct. 25, 1877, “The Macomb Journal” reported, “Ed Pearce has returned to Macomb and opened a new photograph establishment in the rooms over Joe Adcock’s store” (page 3). He continued in this business for the next few years. On Oct 16, 1879, “The Macomb Journal” reported, “Ed Pearce having returned from taking lessons in the higher art of photography, can be found at Tom Philpot’s excellent photographic rooms” (page 3).
Harrison also returned to Macomb for various projects. In 1876 he designed “Red Man’s Room” decorations. The local newspaper described Thos. B. Harrison as “a well-known artist of this City.” The paintings were executed by both Harrison and Jos. S. Sosman.
On June 7, 1877, “The Macomb Journal” reported the following in regard to “Proceedings of a Regular Meeting of the Macomb City Council” (page 2):
“On motion, an appropriation of $10 was made to pay T. B. Harrison for a map of cemetery, and clerk was instructed to draw order on treasurer for the amount.
A second announcement stated, “On Motion, T. B. Harrison was instructed to make another map similar to the one just finished, the cost not to exceed $7.50.”
Later in life, Harrison’s obituary recalled that he studied in Europe, Egypt and the Holy Land. It detailed that his natural proficiency for multiple languages prompted his career to branch off in an additional direction. Harrison’s obituary recorded that he contributed magazine articles on both scientific and art subjects under a nom de plume, and publicly lectured on foreign lands.
In 1878, Harrison was still traveling as a scenic artist throughout the Midwest. On October 10, 1878, The Osceola Sun reported, “T. B. Harrison scenic artist of Chicago is here painting the scenery for Hedrick’s new Hall. This hall when completed will be one of the best in southwest Missouri” (page 3). On Nov. 2, 1878 the Butler Bates County Record reported, “The Messrs. Hendrick, of Appleton City, are finishing one of the finest halls in the southwest. It is 25×100 feet, is provided with a stage and scenery and will be seated with chairs. The scenery and fresco work is being done by Mr. Harrison, a scenic artist of Chicago, and is as fine as that done anywhere. The Appleton Dramatic society will dedicate the hall as soon as completed, due notice of which will be given” (page 3).
Harrison purportedly helped establish the Chicago Academy of Fine Arts in 1879, later renamed the Art Institute of Chicago. Harrison was well respected as a professor at the Institute.
On Oct. 31, 1879, “The Cass County News” reported, “T. B. Harrison, the artist-traveler, has been entertaining our people with his lectures on Foreign travel during the past three evenings, closing the season for which he was advertised on Wednesday evening, having had good audiences of a highly appreciative class during the entire course. At the close on Wednesday evening a request was made by a unanimous expression of the audience, asking him to remain longer, whereupon Mr. H. signified his willingness, and announced the three nights closing the week. Our citizens who have not attended these superbly illustrated lectures, which are in themselves of the highest order, have missed a treat, Yesterday evening the lecture embraced a tour of Holland, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Russia, Turkey and Greece. To-night (Friday) Africa, Palestine, the Ruins of Pompeii, and Spain. Saturday evening, the Lakes of Northern Italy, Milan, Pisa, Florence, Bologna, Naples, Venice, Rome, St. Peter’s Church and the Vatican. We predict large audiences, as a lifetime may be spent without another opportunity of hearing lectures of as high an order or of witnessing as superb illustrations” (page 3).
On November 29, 1879, “The Lexington Intelligencer” reported, “Thos. B. Harrison’s Pantascope, a unique series of art illustrations, forming an epitome of foreign travel, producing with realistic effect the most beautiful, picturesque and romantic places of the world, which has been exhibiting at the opera house the past week, is an entertainment of the highest order of merit and has been liberally patronized by our citizens. The programme for the first evening was France, Paris and Switzerland, the second evening, Germany and the river Rhine; third, England, Ireland and Scotland; fourth, the Netherlands, Russia, Turkey, Greece and Egypt, and last evening, the Holy Land, Pompeii, Africa and Spain. To-night will be Italy, Venice, Rome and the Vatican. There will also be a matinee this afternoon at two o’clock, at which will be presented Germany and the river Rhine. Mr. E. D. Graham, the advance agent and business manager, was formerly editor of the Clinton Advocate, in this state, and is a thorough gentleman, as are all those connected with the exhibition. From here they go to Richmond, and we cordially recommend them to the citizens of that ancient burg. The money expended in thus getting a glimpse of the Old World and its many historic places and buildings could not be more beneficially spent by either old or young” (page 3).
On February 27, 1880, the “St. Joseph Gazette” included an advertisement for Harrison’s Pantascope (p. 1). Harrison exhibited “A Unique series of Art Illustration Forming a Perfect Epitome of Foreign Travel, producing with realistic Effect the Most Beautiful Picturesque and Romantic Places of the World.” The advertisement promised, “Am entertainment of the Highest Order of Merit, universally commended by all persons of culture, taste and refinement.” Harrison’s show was performed at the Fifth Street Methodist Church every day that week for a price of 25 cents for adults and 10 cents for children. A short announcement in the “St. Joseph Gazette” on Feb 27, 1880, reported, “Harrison’s Pantascope is among the very best entertainments of the season. To-night the program is unusually attractive. It includes a ‘journey’ through the Holy Land, views of Pompeii, and scenes in Old Spain” (page 4).
On March 11, 1880, “The Macomb Journal” announced, “T. B. Harrison, formerly of this place was in St. Joseph, Mo., last week, exhibiting his pantascope” (page 2). On Oct 29, 1885, “The Macomb Journal” reported, Professor Thomas B. Harrison, a former well-known citizen of Macomb, has been in our streets the present week” (page 5).
Later that spring Harrison returned to Macomb. The “Henry County Democrat” announced, “Remember, Pantascope, City Hall, April 19” (p. 3).
Although his work with Sosman in Macomb was short-lived, the two remained close friends until Harrison’s passing in 1895. Sosman was even mentioned in Harrison’s obituary. The “Henry County Democrat” remembered, “While painting scenes in the Macomb Opera House, he took in a young boy to mix paints and be of general utility. That boy was Joe Sosman, now senior member of Sosman & Landis, Chicago, the leading theatrical contractors, and outfitters in America. Joe Sosman made his fortune, but he never forgot how much he owed to Tom Harrison. And during all of the ups and downs of Tom’s career, Joe was his steadfast friend.”
Harrison was also an inventor, developing a series of inventions over the years that included a steam hammer, a compressed air hammer, and other improvements for both manufacturing machinery and typewriter machines.
Described as an “artist of rare merit,” he remained in Clinton, Missouri, after painting a drop curtain for the opera house, teaching both drawing and music.
While in Clinton, Harrison grew attached to Samuel J. Seifried, taking the young man on as an assistant The 1880 Census listed Harrison, Samuel Seifried, and his father, William Seifried, all living at the same boarding house on Main Street. The census report listed Harrison as a 41 yrs. old artist, Seifried as 14-yrs. old “at home,” and William as 36 yrs. old “hotel clerk
Samuel Seifried was born in 1866 in Missouri, the eldest son of William J. Seifried (1844-1935) and Amelia M. Heckler (1858-1885). His siblings included Henry C. (1872-1875), Charles E. (1875-1896), George E. (1877-1878), Willie E. (1879-1881), and Barbara (1882-1912). Amelia passed away on Feb. 18, 1885. William married his second wife Emma E. Volkman (1867-1934), about 1889, and five children were born to this union: Winfred W. (1891-1976), Louis M. (b. 1897), Alberta (1895-1979), Reinhold V. (1904-1968), and Eunice (?-1896)
Samuel’s maternal grandmother, Katherine Drach, was known in Clinton, Missouri, as “Mother Seifried.” She was born in 1818 in Unistadt, Germany, emigrating to America in 1837, and marrying Jacob Seifried (?-1899) in March 1841. The couple celebrated the birth of eight children, including Samuel’s father, William John Seifried (1844-1935).
For a little context…Samuel’s father worked as an interior decorator, who, in 1882, he was listed as a painter in the St. Louis directory, residing at 2821 Sheridan Ave.
On Nov. 1881, “The Windsor Review” in Missouri reported, “Last Weeks Spree. Four Days at the Appleton City Fair.
By the kindness of Mr. Harrison, the scenic artist, we were shown through the magnificent Durley Hall of which this town is justly proud. It is undoubtedly the finest Opera House in Southwest Missouri and stands an everlasting record to one man’s enterprise. Harry W. Grantley, the builder of this gran edifice has spare neither money nor brains in rearing it and it certainly does him great credit, Complete in every detail, any play can be realistically produced on the stage. The artist, Mr. Harrison, has done excellent work here, the drop curtain being a masterpiece of artistic originality, and all of the vast amount of scenery shows evidence of his genius.”
On April 23, 1882, The Leavenworth Standard reported, “Around the World. The unique art delineation of European life will open at the Delaware Street Opera House Tuesday evening. It is said to produce with realistic effect the most beautiful, picturesque and romantic places in the world. It is in the hands of G. W. Hutchins, of Philadelphia, and T. B. Harrison, artist traveler and member of the London, Paris, Berlin, Florence and Rome schools of art” (page 4)
On July 26, 1882, the Ottawa Daily Republic of Kansas announced, “Mr. Harrison, the scenic artist of the new Opera House had begun work on the large drop curtain, and it promises to be one of the handsomest pieces of art in the state” (page 1).
Harrison also produced stock scenery for Moore’s Opera House in Nevada, Missouri. Harry Miner’s Dramatic Directory for the 1882-1883 season credited Harrison with 20 sets of scenery at the venue. Harrison’s scenic art was also listed in Harry Miner’s Theatre Directories, for 1884 and 1887. He was credited with stock scenery collections at the Opera House in Clinton, Missouri; L&S Moore’s Opera House in Nevada, Missouri; Lamar Opera House in Lamar, Missouri; and the New Odeon Theatre in Maquoketa, Iowa.
Here is a summary of the known stock scenery collections delivered by Harrison during his lifetime:
Chandler’s Opera House (Macomb, Illinois, 1873)
Opera House (Clinton, Missouri, 1880)
Opera House (Lamar, Kansas, c. 1882-1884)
New Odeon Theatre (Maquoketa, Iowa, c. 1882-1884)
L&S Moore’s Opera House (Nevada, Missouri, c. 1882-1884)
Opera House (Ottawa, Kansas, 1882)
Opera House (Sedalia, Missouri, 1883)
On May 13, 1882, “The Falls City Journal” of Falls City, Nebraska, reported, “Around the World. A unique series of artistic delineations of European life; by G. W. Hutchings, of Philadelphia, and T. B. Harrison, Artist Traveler, and member of celebrated art schools of London, Paris, Berlin, Florence, and Rome. A perfect epitome of foreign travel. Am entertainment of the highest order of merit, universally commended by all persons of culture, taste and refinement. At the Opera House, May 16th and 20th, Admission 25 cts. Reserved seats 35 cts. Children and gallery seats, 15 cts. Season tickets only 75 cts” (page 5).
On Aug. 5, 1882, The Ottawa Daily Republic (Kansas) reported,
“Mr. Harrison, the scenic artist at the new opera house, thinks the REPUBLICAN was premature in inviting folks to see the new drop curtain. He don’t care to be bothered by visitors and has locked the public out. So you needn’t go to see the new curtain just now.” (page 4)
1883- Sedalia, Missouri: On March 13, 1883, the “Sedalia Weekly Bazoo” of Missouri reported, “H. C. Moore, president of the opera house stockholders. presented T. B. Harrison, the scenic artist, with a fine gold headed case on which is handsomely inscribed” From W. C. Moore to F. B. Harrison, 1883” (page 5). All this time, Harrison traveled with his assistant “Sammie.”
On March 24, 1886, Harrison became a naturalized citizen in Montgomery, Missouri. This may have been prompted by a series of inventions that both he and Seifried were working on at the time. On Dec. 27, 1888, the “Versailles Republican” announced the patent was granted for T. B. Harrison’s Anderson, typewriter” (page 4).
Seifried proved to be not only a wonderful assistant, but also a fellow inventor. Harrison later listed “Sammie” as his adopted son, leaving him everything upon his passing in 1895; an estate valued at $4000. The two repeatedly toured the European continent for well over a decade, although I have yet to uncover any travel records or passport applications. During their travels through France became interested in the Braille system, returning with information and several ideas. Upon their return, the couple developed a typewriter for use by the blind and established the manufacturing firm of Harrison & Seifried. Harrison & Seifried was located at 181 E. Division Street in Chicago. They advertised as “Designers and Builders of Light Machinery.”
Here is a link to Bi-fold brochure of Harrison & Seifried, “Sole Manufacturers of the Hall Braille Writers and the Stereotype Maker.” https://aphmuseum.org/record/hall-braille-writers-and-stereotype-maker-brochure/
The Hall Braille typewriter (also called a Braillewriter or Brailler) was invented in 1892 by Frank Haven Hall, who was the Superintendent of the Illinois Institution for the Blind. The Hall Braille typewriter was manufactured by the Harrison & Seifried company in Chicago, Illinois, USA. Hall introduced his invention on May 27, 1892, at Jacksonville, Illinois. It types raised Braille dots onto paper. For more information, see: http://www.enchantedlearning.com/inventors/1800b.shtml]
Here is a link to another detailed history of the machine: https://www.antiquetypewriters.com/typewriter/hall-braille-writer-1/
“In 1892, Hall had the skilled local Gunsmith and Metal worker Gustav Siebel make a prototype of his machine. Hall took Sieber’s prototype to the Munson Typewriter Company in Chicago, where superintendent T.B. Harrison and designer Samuel J. Seifried, inventor of the Munson typewriter, created six pilot models. Harrison and Seifried in seeing the great potential of this revolutionary machine, then left the Munson Typewriter Company to start their own company. They made an additional 94 machines based on the initial design for Hall. The Hall Braille-writers that followed were essentially of the same design but there were alterations to be seen, especially in the carriage construction.”
Previously, each was associated with the Munson Typewriter Company. On Dec. 7, 1890, the “Chicago Tribune” announced, Samuel J. Seifried, Secretary of the Munson Typewriter company, filed a certificate to record the increase of the capital stock of the company from $60,000 to $100,000” (page 6).
Harrison’s involvement with the typewriter was detailed in an 1887 newspaper article. On April 7, 1887, “Logansport Pharos Tribune” of Logansport, Indiana, reported:
“The Pharos spoke briefly the other day of the Harrison type writer being on exhibition in the city, but if failed to mention some interesting facts connected with the history of the patent. The machine is the result of the genius of Prof. T. B. Harrison, the gray-haired gentleman who gave a series of illustrated art lectures at Dolan’s opera house last year. The Professor has traveled all over the world and is a cultured and interesting talker. After leaving Logansport he went to Anderson, and while there fell in with Father Weichtman, the Catholic minister, a whole-souled gentleman who immediately took a great liking to the aged traveler. Prof. Harrison was full of his proposed type-write patent, and Rev. Weichtman immediately set to work to interest local capitalists in the device. The result was they advanced the money to secure the model and patent, and the little machine was finally built and improved, until it was brought to the point of perfection shown in this city, the model alone costing $900. We see from the Indianapolis papers that the Anderson company has been incorporated with $10,000 capital and will soon begin manufacturing Harrison’s typewriter. It can be stated in this connection that good judges in this city who examined the machine pronounce it decided improvement over other standard typewriters” (3).
Harrison continued to invest in the performing arts and established a touring company. I have yet to track down the details, but on July 7, 1892, the “Sterling Standard” the T. B. Harrison Theatrical Co. as the employer of leading man, Thomas Alexander (page 3).
In regard to Harrison’s extended family in America…his father, Benjamin, passed away on Oct. 8, 1891. Buried in Mt. Hope Maquoketa, Jackson, Iowa, he is buried next to several other family members, including his eldest son Thomas. Thomas B. Harrison passed away on August 13, 1895 in Chicago, Illinois. Newspapers reported that Harrison’s death was caused from “slight paralysis occasioned by excessive mental labor.” His noted occupation at the time was listed as “inventor.”
On Sept. 19, 1895, “The Henry County Democrat” of Clinton, Missouri (page &) reported,
“Death of Tom Harrison. Sketch of the Life of a Talented Artist and Genial Man.
The people of Clinton who learned to admire Tom Harrison, the artist, for his many genial qualities, will be pained to learn of his death in Chicago. Mr. Harrison painted the scenery for the Clinton Opera house and as a young man, of this city, Sam J. Seifried, has been his constant companion for years. The editors of the DEMOCRAT had a warm personal acquaintance with Mr. Harrison long before he came to Clinton. For many years he lived in Macomb, Ill., and every man, woman, and child in that city admired his abilities and excellent qualities of mind and heart.
While painting scenes in the Macomb Opera House, he took in a young boy to mix paints and be of general utility. That boy was Joe Sosman, now senior member of Sosman & Landis, Chicago, the leading theatrical contractors, and outfitters in America. Joe Sosman made his fortune, but he never forgot how much he owed to Tom Harrison. And during all of the ups and downs of Tom’s career, Joe was his steadfast friend. The Chicago “Inter Ocean” of Sept. 8th contains the following brief account of his life:
Thomas B. Harrison who died recently at his residence, No. 27 Pleasant street, of slight paralysis occasioned by excessive mental labor, was buried with Masonic and G. A. R. honors Friday, Aug. 30, at his former home, Maquoketa, Iowa.
He leaves a sister and half-brother, as well as an adopted son, Samuel L. Seifried, to mourn his loss.
Mr. Harrison came of an excellent English family and was distantly related to the family of that name which was so conspicuous in England and has been in the United States, two of the members having been presidents.
He was born in Hull, England, Feb. 16, 1836. His preliminary and academical education was obtained there and, in this country, though he was an essentially self-educated man, and his attainments in the arts, sciences and general literature were extraordinary. He has an immortality of fame in this connection and by virtue of his material achievements.
He came to this country in 1850, with his father’s family, which settled in Maquoketa, Iowa, where he lies beside his father.
At the outbreak of the war, he enlisted in an Iowa cavalry regiment, but after a few months’ service was discharged on account of constant illness. When restored he again enlisted in Company B., Twenty-sixth Iowa Infantry, served to the end of the war and obtained a captaincy. He saw much service and was twice severely wounded at Fort Donelson and in Arkansas, from the effects of which he never recovered. He was a true soldier and a patriot.
At the close of the war, he came to Chicago and entered upon a successful career as an artist, and at the time of the great fire he was in the front rank of his profession. He was one of the founders of the Academy of Fine Arts and one of its ablest professors. He lost largely in the fire, and instead of resuming his business he concluded to indulge he love for travel and adventure and gratify his professional instinct by a trip abroad.
Thereafter he was a constant traveler for fourteen years in most of the European countries, also visiting Egypt, the Holy Land, becoming familiar with the language, habits, and customs of many people. He could speak and write several languages. He was a contributor to magazine literature on scientific and art subjects, but always over a nom de plume, hence not known to the public directly. On his return to the country, he was engaged in various pursuits in connection with art and obtained favor as a lecturer on foreign lands.
He had decided genius as an inventor. Among the most useful of his inventions are a steam hammer, a compressed air hammer, various improvements in manufacturing machinery, a stereotype printing machine for making printing plates for the use of the blind. The latter is in use in all parts of the world. The last year of his life, while in partial retirement, was devoted largely to the inventing and perfecting of typewriter machines.”
Harrison lies in rest at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Maquoketa, Iowa, near many members of his biological family.
After Harrison’s death in 1895, Seifried and his younger brother Ed developed the latest improved on the stereotype maker and created the Seifried Braille Shorthand Machine. In the years following Harrison’s death, Seifried continued to pop up in newspapers, here and there.
On April 25, 1897, “The Chicago Chronicle” announced the following real estate transfer “North Fifty-ninth st., 112 ½ ft. w of Wright st. s.f., 25.28×124 ½, April 22 – M. A. Trainer to S. J. Seifried” (page 21). This pinpoints a location for Seifried in the late 1890s.
In 1900, “The Clinton Eye” reflected on the town’s history, again mentioning Seifried and Harrison. On June 23, 1900, “The Clinton Eye” reported, “Sometime after T. B. Harrison, another erratic genius, came here to paint the drop-curtain for the opera house. He was an artist of rare merit. Though not learned, he was well read, cultured. He painted the curtain, taught drawing, music. Was so pleased with Clinton remained two or three years. He painted and arranged a scenic exhibition, writing the accompanying lectures, and interesting the genial Will Graham, then publishing the Advocate, the late Henry Marvin and others, put the venture on the road, with varying success. While here Harrison grew very much attached to Sammie Seifried, son of W. J. The attachment was so reciprocal that young Seifried became his protégé. They toured the continent, returning located in Chicago. The protégé proved to be a genius too, of the inventive sort, and bringing forth a typewriter of extraordinary value, and the firm Harrison & Seifried ventured into the manufacturing business, successfully. A recent production is a typewriter for use by the blind, spoken of in highest praise by the Eastern press. Harrison died a year or two since, but Sam J. Seifried revers his memory by continuing the business under his name” (page 6).
I was surprised to read about an accident involving Seifried and his sister in 1906.
On Sept. 27, 1906, the “Henry County Democrat” reported “Miss Barbara Seifried Narrowly Escapes Injury. The following from the Galesburg, Ill. Republican Register of Monday will greatly interest the many Clinton friends of Sam J. and Miss Barbara Seifried:
The second railway-automobile accident to occur I the history of Galesburg, took place Saturday night when S. J. Seifried and sister, Miss Barbara Seifried, narrowly escaped severe bodily injury at the crossing of the Knoxville road and the Peoria tracks, of the C.B.&Q., their machine being struck by a freight engine and the occupants severely shaken up. The accident occurred shortly after 7 o’clock. The machine in which the Seifrieds were riding was a light Frankly touring car and they were out for a ride to Knoxville. At the crossing of the Knoxville road and the Peoria tracks the road makes a sharp turn and crosses the tracks at a right angle.
No notice of the approach of the freight train was brought to the ears of the pair in the auto, until just as they were on the tracks when Miss Seifried noticed the engine of the train, then almost upon them. It was too late to attempt to run the car over ahead of the train and Mr. Seifried’s hastily utilized what spare moments were left in the effort to back the car clear of danger, Miss Seifried having jumped when the danger became apparent. The efforts to back the car clear of the tracks was successful and the entire front end of the machine was smashed by the pilot of the locomotive, entailing a loss of several hundred dollars.
Fortunately neither of the occupants were severely injured, although both were badly shaken up and would not care to repeat their experience. No bones were broken, Miss Seifried having sustained a sprained ankle in the jump from the car seat to the ground while the close proximity of the crash between the car and engine pilot to Mr. Seifried served to give him a severe shaking up. The nervous shock and narrow escape was unusually severe, and even as late as this morning neither of the pair had completely recovered their normal nervous state” (p. 2).
On Jan. 9, 1913 the “Henry County Democrat” of Clinton, Missouri, announced: “All persons having claims against the estate of Barbara H. Seifreid, deceased, are hereby notified to present same at once to Samuel J. Seifried, 1712 Foster Ave., Chicago, Ill.” (page 8).
Seifried passed away on Dec. 29, 1912 in Chicago, Illinois, and was buried at the Englewood Cemetery in Clinton, Missouri. He was only 45 yrs. old at the time.
“Great Loss.
Sam J. Seifried Mourned by the Blind.
The death of Samuel J. Seifried, whose funeral service was held in Clinton Thursday afternoon, will be felt with keenest sorrow in all parts of the civilized world, on account of the service his life has brought to the blind.
For many years he has devoted his energies to inventions and devices for the amelioration of the condition of the sightless. When a young man he was an intimate friend of Thomas B. Harrison, an artist well known here, and accompanied him on a journey to France. Both became much interested in the Braille system of writing for the blind, which had not made much progress in later years; and upon their return devoted much study to a plan of bringing it up to date. After Mr. Harrison’s death, the opportunity at length came to Mr. Seifried to carry out a long-cherished plan of devoting his entire time to the needs of the blind; and he added to inventive genius, a good judgement that placed the venture on a sound basis that insured its permanence. The company was incorporated and closely associated with the founder was his younger brother Ed. A practical type writing machine was invented making the Braille characters, so that books and manuscripts were easily transcribed for the use of the bind. The business so broadened so as to take care of every necessity of these afflicted ones, and it stands alone in the world today, the only one of its sort in existence. A recent triumph of his inventive genius is a stenograph or shorthand machine suited for the use of the blind; and there are stenographers and even court reporters who use these machines, indenting characters on a long tape which they can afterwards readily read and transcribe on an ordinary typewriter.
So it is that his life was one of service, too, where it was most needed. And -to-day, wherever there are those in darkness, they love this man who has gone to his reward and will long mourn him as a friend and helper.
Clinton is proud that one of her sons was permitted to achieve so much of real good in the world; and we ae also rejoiced that his work is not to stop, but will be taken up and carried on by his brother.
The funeral service was conducted at the home of his father, Wm. J. Seifried, on North Third street, on Thursday afternoon at 2 o’clock, by Rev. A. N. Lindsey, who spoke words of appreciation of the departed and comfort to the bereaved relative. The house was filled with old time friends who braved shill weather to show by their presence their friendship and extend their heartfelt.
The interment was by the Masonic fraternity, which deposited the body in mother earth with beautiful ritualism” (page 6).
On Jan. 9, 1913, “The Henry County Democrat” announced, “Ed Seifried and wife arrived last night from Chicago, to accompany the remains of the late Samuel J. Seifried” (page 3).
To be continued…
Wonderful chapter! The details of the braille typewriter were incredibly interesting.