The Pach Brothers was established in 1867 by German-born siblings Gustavus W. Pach (1848–1904), Gotthelf Pach (1852–1925), and Morris Pach (1837–1914). The family immigrated to the United States as children and began their photographic careers in New York City. Gustavus, having worked as a printer for Turner & Co., a leading commercial photographer, honed his skills during the photographic boom of the Civil War era. In 1865, due to health issues, he relocated to Toms River, New Jersey, and later to Long Branch, where he established a studio. The brothers gained recognition by photographing prominent families, including those of George W. Childs, Anthony J. Drexel, and Ulysses S. Grant.
Expansion and Notable Achievements
By the 1870s, the Pach Brothers had expanded their operations, establishing studios in various locations, including Broadway in New York City. They became renowned for their portrait photography, capturing images of notable figures such as Ulysses S. Grant, Benjamin Harrison, Theodore Roosevelt, and Woodrow Wilson. Their clientele included individuals from business, politics, education, and the arts, as well as thousands of students and families.
In the 1880s, the firm began operating seasonal studios in college towns, photographing graduating classes and athletic teams at institutions like Yale, Harvard, Princeton, and Vassar. They also became the official photographers for the United States Military Academy at West Point, a position they held for several decades.
Challenges and Resilience
In 1895, a devastating fire destroyed their New York studio and processing rooms, along with their entire negative archive. Despite this setback, the Pach Brothers rebuilt and continued their operations, maintaining their reputation for high-quality portraiture. They also contributed to the art community by documenting artworks for the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Later Years and Legacy
The Pach Brothers' firm continued to operate under the leadership of subsequent generations, expanding to over 17 locations across the United States. Their work is preserved in various collections, including the New-York Historical Society, which holds a significant archive of their portraits from 1867 to 1947.
In 1933, *The New Yorker* magazine highlighted the firm's legacy, noting their extensive portfolio that included portraits of every U.S. president from Ulysses S. Grant to Herbert Hoover, as well as other prominent figures like Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and J.P. Morgan.