DescriptionTwo photographs of Reverend Cosgrove from the Brison Family Album. First photograph contains inscription on verso: "Reverend Cosgrove student Drew M.E. (Methodist Episcopalian) Seminary Madison, NJ. One of the preachers of the first M.E. Church, Millburn, NJ. Started (?) and property given by Colonel B.W. Benson." Photographed at Oliver studio, Oswego NY. No inscription on second photograph by Howell, 867 & 869 Broadway. William Roe Howell was born in 1846 in Goshen, New York. He had a passion for drawing and painting and he directed his creative interest into the field of photography as a young adult. He opened a photographic studio in Goshen. In 1863 he moved to New York City where he joined Robert and Henry Johnston at Johnston Brothers Studio at 867 Broadway. In 1866 the firm became Johnston & Howell. In 1867, he became the sole proprietor of the gallery. By 1870, he was gaining much recognition in the field of photography. In 1878 he moved his business from 867 to 889 Broadway and opened another studio with a partner (Meyer) at 26 West 14th Street. In 1880 he retired from photography due to health reasons. In 1886 he moved with his family to Washington D.C.