Raynors HCA 2014-11
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/6/2014
Quarter Plate Daguerreotype, presented in a split case with a period browned ink identification on the paper liner behind the image, which reads in full, “Anna Whitridge and her faithful nurse Patty Atevis. Taken about 1848, Marsters, Lexington St. Daguerreotypist.” As noted on the sealant tape, the daguerreotype has been resealed in 1994 by Dennis Waters, Exeter NH. The bond between the child and the nurse is touching and eveidenced by the proximatey of the sitters’ heads as well as the affectionate way the child’s hand rests on Patty’s collar. Patty is wearing a plaid cotton dress with attached white sleeves and collar. Researchfrom the Maryland Archives provide the background. Martha Ann Atavis was born a slave circa 1816 in Maryland. Martha or "Patty Ann" as she was often called was the slave of William McCubbin of Baltimore. McCubbin was a small slave owner having two slaves who were both invalids. He owned Patty and another slave girl named Phebe. William McCubbin died in 1839 without a will. When his property was appraised Patty was worth $180. After McCubbin's death his widow Ruth sold Patty Ann to Dr. John Whitridge of Baltimore, MD for $200. Patty was sent to live at Whitridge's home on Gay Street in Baltimore. The Whitridges later moved to 49 N. Charles Street, although it is not clear whether Patty moved with the family to this location. Atavis worked as a nurse in the Whitridge family for 36 years. On October 26, 1874, Martha Ann Atavis died and was buried in the Whitridge family lot at the Green Mount Cemetery in Baltimore, MD. In 1866, Dr. Whitridge wrote his will which included a bequest of $100 to Patty annually. However, Patty died prior to Dr. Whitridge and was not alive when his will was probated in 1878.
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