Becker Street

William Isadore Becker (1859-1945) was one of the best photographers of his day.  William Becker had been in the photography business for decades when this sketch appeared in the local paper. He had started his photographic business in New Hamburg around 1883 before moving into Stratford in 1886. In 1894 he purchased an already successful photography business in Stratford. This description of Becker was originally published along with the sketch in the Stratford Herald's 1914 Old Boys' Edition. It paints the story of how exceptional Becker was in his trade and how well thought of he was throughout the city.  

W. I Becker and Company, Photographers. Within the last decade, [1904-1914] photography has made such vast strides that it may now be property classified as high art. One of its chief exponents in this city is Mr. William I. Becker, whose studio is located at 72 Ontario Street . This is admittedly, the finest studio in Stratford. Mr. Becker is an artist in the true sense of the word and the best advice is always at the command of his clientele. The studio is fitted with the most modern equipment, all chosen for their special adaptability to portrait work. 

The other accessories are in keeping with true art. The lighting is perfect and may be also regulated as to bring out the contrast in the high tone and the soft lights, that is ever the test of the master. Mr. Becker has practical experience extending over a period of 27 years. 

Becker first commenced operation in the store occupied by Jas. Bremner, but soon moved to premises above Ferguson's store. 

However, his high class production soon brought him popularity, and with popularity came success. Accordingly, he was forced to move once more to new and more commodious premises at his present location which occurred nine years ago.  

The best people in this city are patrons of this studio and are unanimous that Mr. Becker is indeed an expert of his profession.  He makes a speciality of high grade portraiture with sepia tone finish and is the recognized leader in Perth county in this prominent branch of the work..

Combination pictures play an important part in the firm's work and their work in this line is of the first water, it is acme of artistic accomplishment and stands in a class by itself.

Old boys renewing acquaintances during the week will find here special facilities for exquisite family and other groups which are guaranteed to please the most exacting. Here are to be found the only platinum pictures in the city and these have to be seen to be appreciated. 

The of three are each skilled artists in their particular branches. The proprietor of the business needs no introduction locally. He takes a keen interest in Stratford's interests and is a warm supporter of baseball and hockey. 

To anyone wishing a good individual picture or a splendid family group at this reunion session, The Herald strongly says "Visit the Becker Studio," the city's home of "High Class Portraiture." Source: Stratford Herald 1914. 

Brief History. Becker was born in Northeast Hope Township on January 7, 1859. He was married in 1887 to Mary S. Merner. in New Hamburg and they had two children, a son Sanford and a daughter Adene. Becker was a very active member of the Masonic order and I.O.O.F.,  where he had served in both organizations for more than half a century. He was a member of Knox Presbyterian church and sat on the church board. In the mid 1930s, he retired from business and his other social activities die to ill health. . 

William Becker passed away at home on December 8, 1945, and Stratford lost a beloved citizen. Source: Reflections, written by Cindy J. Cinco, Stratford Perth Archives published in the Stratford Beacon Herald, August 27, 2011.  Photos Stratford-Perth Archives