Do you remember when 1-Hour Photo Service became popular? Jacksonville’s famed pioneer photographer, Peter Britt, offered the service in the mid-1800s—100 years before it became trendy again! And it seems that Britt’s exotic gardens were not only a regional horticultural and tourist attraction, they were also part of his 1-hour service. Historic Jacksonville, Inc. came across the following notice in a June 17, 1865, “Oregon Sentinel” newspaper:
“PHOTOGRAPHY—Those who wish to see the art of photography in all its branches and in its greatest perfection would do well to visit the rooms of Peter Britt at his residence. No one can spend an hour better than to go there, get his picture, and see the pictures and flowers.”
It seems Britt’s gardens were as much a business decision as anything. Apparently, Britt was able to develop, print, and mount his photos in about an hour. Customers choosing to wait for their finished images could explore Britt’s gardens and gallery, making the time lapse entertaining instead of boring!