Reed, Abner, 1771-1866

Abner Reed was a self-taught engraver as well as an author and school teacher. He lived and worked East Windsor (now South Windsor) for the majority of his life, although he also lived in Hartford and parts of New York. Reed was a pioneer in experimenting with aquatint and trained many of the well-known engravers of the nineteenth century. John Warner Barber, William Mason, Ralph Rawdon, William Phelps, and Samuel Stiles all served as apprentices under Reed at various times. Reed was particularly known for his engravings of Hartford bank notes. He removed to New York in 1847 and later to Ohio, where he died in 1866 at the age of 93.

From the description of Abner Reed diaries and memoradum book, 1798-1802. (Hartford Public Library). WorldCat record id: 428809510

Abner Reed (1771-1866) of Windsor, Conn., was an engraver, copper-plate printer, painter, teacher, and author. He was largely engaged in the designing and engraving of bank-note plates, for which he received orders from many banks in the United States and Canada. Reed also executed several excellent decorative portrait, historical, and map engravings on wood and copper plate. He taught school in Windsor and was deacon of the Congregational Church in addition to producing several books, including a novel, a sketchbook of engravings, and textbooks.

From the description of Diaries, 1798-1802. (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 207166690