Even before the $1.00 Kodak Brownie Camera of 1900, the Perry Mason Company of Boston marketed simple plate cameras to children through the weekly Youth's Companion magazine. Both the Harvard and Phoenix were tin box cameras which sported simple lenses and shutters, and took single plateholders. They were not the simplest cameras to operate, since one needed a changing bag or darkroom nearby - neither camera could take more than one exposure before being reloaded.

Interestingly, besides being sold directly, the cameras were also used as premiums for children who referred friends or relatives for subscriptions to the Youth's Companion.

The Harvard first appeared in advertisements in July of 1888, while the Phoenix did not appear until 1892. The Harvard was replaced by the 'Improved Harvard' later that year, while the Phoenix continued to be advertised at least until 1895.