Lucas Brothers, Inc., photograph collection
Abstract
This collection contains photographs related to the business ventures of Lucas Brothers, Inc., circa 1909-1962.
Dates
- 1909-1962
Conditions Governing Access
The collection is open for research use.
Conditions Governing Use
The reproduction of materials in this collection may be subject to copyright restrictions. It is the responsibility of the researcher to determine and satisfy copyright clearances or other case restrictions when publishing or otherwise distributing materials found in the collections. For more information visit the MCHC’s Rights and Permissions page.
Biographical / Historical
The business that would become Lucas Brothers, Incorporated was founded in 1804 in Baltimore, Maryland by Fielding Lucas, Jr. Lucas purchased the stationery and publishing firm of Campbell, Conrad and Company, which was located at 138 Market Street (now 116 East Baltimore Street), where business remained there until 1904, when the building was destroyed by the Great Baltimore Fire. Lucas’ company primarily published illustrated maps and atlases. His sons, William F., Edward, and Henry A., organized Lucas Brothers in 1853, which was later acquired solely by William.
The company grew into a stationary retailer, printing shop, used furniture dealer, and cabinet maker. It became a one stop shop for office supply needs and even offered interior design services for office spaces. The main retail store in Baltimore occupied 219-221-223 and 225 East Baltimore Street. Retail stores were also opened in Baltimore County but were sold in 1994. Lucas Brothers folded shortly after.
Extent
1.42 Linear Feet (2 boxes)
Language of Materials
English
Arrangement
The collection is arranged in seven series, which reflect the topics of photographs. Within the series, the items are organized chronologically. The photographs in series II and III were originally held in album but were removed due to preservation concerns. The arrangement of these series reflects the original order of the albums.
Immediate Source of Acquisition
Gift of Alan Behrend, November 24, 2003.
Scope and Contents
The collections contains photographs related to the business ventures of Lucas Brothers, Incorporated. This includes interior and exterior views of the store located on East Baltimore Street, window displays, and ephemera from the company’s 150th anniversary celebration. Two photograph albums documenting Lucas Bros.’ office remodeling services may be of particular interest. The firm worked with several notable Baltimore businesses, including the Baltimore Trust Company and National Central Bank, to update their facilities. Photographs documenting the company’s work to overhaul its own building are also included.
- Title
- Guide to the Lucas Brothers, Inc., photograph collection
- Status
- Under Revision
- Author
- Lara Westwood
- Date
- 2015-06
- Description rules
- Describing Archives: A Content Standard
- Language of description
- Undetermined
- Script of description
- Code for undetermined script
Revision Statements
- 2020-03-06: Manually entered into ArchivesSpace by Mallory Herberger.
Repository Details
Part of the H. Furlong Baldwin Library Repository
H. Furlong Baldwin Library
Maryland Center for History and Culture
610 Park Avenue
Baltimore MD 21201 United States
4106853750
specialcollections@mdhistory.org