Rare original sixth-plate ambrotype of Francis "Frank" Jardine Bell, photographed
by Broadbent in Philadelphia, probably right before he headed off to Nevada at
the early age of just 18, to supervise the construction of the transcontinental
telegraph line. He would become a telegraph operator, and telegraphed Nevada's
Constitution to Washington, D.C. in 1864, later becoming the 6th governor of
Nevada (and first foreign-born governor)and warden of the Nevada State Prison.
He died in Nevada in 1927.
Included is an original note that reads, "Frank Bell, Son of Richard Bell".
Ambrotype is in full case behind glass and mat, which is stamped BROADBENT in the
lower-left corner. The image itself a clear glass ambrotype with a piece of black
velvet inside of the case. Image is in excellent antique condition.