Bergmann & Co. Electric Light Appliance Factory Photograph
Photograph
A torn cyanotype photograph depicting the Bergmann & Co. factory, a key manufacturer of electrical lighting appliances during the late 19th century. The building is a multi-story brick structure with signs advertising "Bergmann & Co." and "Edison Electric Light Appliances," indicating its connection to Thomas Edison’s electrical innovations. The damage and missing portions of the image suggest heavy handling or age-related deterioration.
Bergmann & Co. was one of the primary manufacturers of electrical components used in Edison’s lighting systems. But in 1881 the building also housed a workshop for Hiram Maxim’s United States Electric Light Company, Latimer’s employer at that time. On the back of this photograph, Latimer wrote that the building was located at the “N.W. Cor[ner] of 18th St. & Ave. A” in Manhattan. He also noted that this building contained “a room where I made carbons for electric incandescent lamps in 1881."
Latimer Family Papers (1870-1996 ) [QPL Full Collection]
"A room where I made orders for electric incandescent lamps in 1883" (L.H. Latimer's initials present)