Item Description:

Fascinating & Rare 1896 Cabinet Card Photograph – Edwin R. Egnew & "Dick" the Tame Eagle

Up for auction or buy-it-now is a wonderful, highly unique piece of late-19th-century American history. This original albumen photograph depicts Edwin R. Egnew, the eccentric proprietor of the famous Avery House hotel in Mount Clemens, Michigan, posing on a wooden porch with his celebrated live mascot: a remarkably docile, tame American eagle named "Dick."

The photo features a charming, period-accurate handwritten caption along the bottom edge of the gray card stock mount: "Having A Chat With Dick." The framing captures Egnew in his bowler hat, leaning forward with his finger gently extended to the eagle's beak, showcasing the close bond between the hotelier and his famous avian companion.

Adding massive historical significance to this image is the framed portrait hanging openly on the wooden wall behind them. It is an original 1896 William Jennings Bryan presidential campaign print from his iconic "Free Silver" run. This campaign piece serves as an impeccable, definitive chronological marker that firmly dates the photograph to the late 1890s.

This card is an exceptional crossover piece perfect for collectors of:

• Early Michigan local history & hotel memorabilia (Avery House / Pagoda Springs)

• Staged 19th-century novelty and animal photography

• Vintage political campaign materials & Bryan memorabilia

Item Specifics:

• Type: Cabinet Card / Mounted Photograph

• Format: Albumen Print

• Subject: Edwin R. Egnew & "Dick" the Tame Eagle

• Location: Mount Clemens, Michigan (Avery House Hotel)

• Date of Creation: Circa 1896

• Theme: Animals, Wildlife, Political, Local History

Condition Details: This genuine antique photograph is well over 120 years old and shows signs of age that confirm its authenticity:

• Mount Condition: The bottom-right corner of the gray cardboard mount is chipped/broken off, and there is minor edge wear. The bottom-left corner shows a small crease.

• Photo Surface: The photo remains sharp and clear with great contrast. There is some minor surface scuffing, silvering near the dark borders, and typical light age toning.