Rare Historic Set: European Landmarks from the Personal Collection of Robert Hilliard

A pair of original antique stereoviews by J.F. Jarvis and distributed by Underwood & Underwood. The reverse side of each card bears the signature of R. Hilliard. Robert Hilliard was a central figure in the "Free Niagara" movement of the 1880s, working to reclaim Niagara Falls from private exploitation and bring it into the public domain. These cards from his personal library provide a rare glimpse into the cultural interests of the man who helped manage America's first state park.

1. Card 1: "Bedroom, Catherine de Medicis, Fontainebleau, France"
2. Card 2: "Gallery d'Apollon, Louvre, Paris, France"

The signature matches the signature found on another item in my collection related to Niagara. These views demonstrate the "Grand Tour" interests of a Victorian-era administrator, linking European heritage sites to the pioneer of American park management.

Date: 1890.

Condition: VG vintage condition with minor age-related foxing to the original buff-colored card.