A model C Kodak with a roll film back – photo courtesy of Alldyn Clark
Toronto. The 1881 Kodak set a new standard for ease of use (and roll film). In 1891 A new Kodak was announced with added features: different sizes for different films; a choice of film or glass plate back; two viewfinders; focusable. These Kodaks were made from about 1891-1895.
The late Alldyn Clark, a Bracebridge photographer and camera collector, obtained a rare Kodak camera c1891. The article on this model of Kodak is titled, “The ‘C’ Ordinary Kodak 1891-1895”. Alldyn sent photos and details down to Ev who wrote the illustrated article for issue 14-4.
Ev writes, “Following considerable interest on the part of members, Alldyn Clark, well known photographer and stereo collector of Bracebridge, Ontario, sends us these details of the “C” Ordinary Kodak which he obtained from Ontario Hydro in 1957. Alldyn has restored it to operating condition. Approximately 3,000 were manufactured through the years 1891 to 1895.
“This 4 x 5 inch model has a roll-fllm back, although a plate back was interchangeable. The camera consists of two wooden boxes, one moving inside the other to focus the image. Focussing is accomplished by moving the sliding lever which projects beside the footage scale.”
Although Bracebridge is a few hours north of Toronto, Alldyn managed to attend many of our monthly Toronto meetings back then. He enjoyed the presentations and company of fellow collectors inspire of being quite deaf.
While we can’t guarantee you will find a model C Kodak at a fall PHSC event, you will find things for your collection whether you collect cameras, photos, or photography ephemera. And remember, all members received a DVD with the pdf version of every volume Photographic Canadiana from 1-40. See previous posts to join or ask our membership secretary a question.
