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Soon after Samuel Russell graduated from Cumberland University in Lebanon, Tennessee, he and his brother, Robert, opened a studio in Oxanna in 1883, located on F & Noble Street. After several years (between 1895 & 1900) they decided to dissolve their partnership. Robert moved to Ensley, Alabama to found a photography supply company. Samuel opened his studio on the third floor of the Levi Building at 1024 Noble Street in Anniston. When the Constantine Block at 1014 Noble Street was completed, Samuel and Robert moved there and decided to continue the name Russell Brothers even though their businesses were independently owned. Sometime prior to 1908, Samuel built the Russell Brothers Studio and Gift Shop building at 1021 Noble Street. The studio closed in 1941 and the gift shop was sold. When Samuel died in 1942 the negative file was sold to Lance and Angelese Johnson of Lance Johnson Studios. These negatives were later donated to the Public Library of Anniston-Calhoun County by their son, Jim. Prints of the photographs in this collection may be ordered through the Alabama Room. Call 256-237-8501 ext 22, or e-mail alroom@anniston.lib.al.us for details. |
