This collection includes historical materials or references to or descriptions of historical materials that may be considered offensive or harmful. Historical records are evidence of the time in which they were created and often contain language and images that are racist, homophobic, sexist, ableist, or otherwise derogatory and insensitive. The Library Company takes responsibility for these materials and their importance for the study of the past seriously. The Library does not endorse the views expressed in these materials.

If you encounter language in this digitized collection, or elsewhere that you find offensive or harmful, or if you have questions about the statement above or about our work, we welcome your feedback. A full statement and feedback form where you can alert us of potentially harmful material is available here.

The Race and Visual Culture Digital Collection contains historical visual material and popular art works, often racist in content, that pertain to the visual culture of race and its social, cultural, and historical complexities and biases. The collection, in correlation with the African American History Graphics Digital Collection, includes over 1,600 images and descriptions of visual material that depict or reference the BIPOC community between the 18th and 20th centuries. The sub collections contained within are arranged by date spans based on the creation date of the item. The supplied titles, descriptions, and subject headings were reviewed, revised, and remediated to include anti-racist language as part of a 2021-2022 remediation cataloging project of our African American History Graphics Collection. Many records still include legacy Library of Congress Subject Headings, which conform to national and institutional cataloging standards that are under review for their continued public use in our catalogs. The collection was first published in 2023.

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H. Rendtorff, wholesale and retail dealer in stoves and hardware, 291 & 293 North Ave., Chicago. [graphic].
Racist trade card depicting an interior scene of a set of African American conjoined twin sisters, their mother, their father, and their male suitor. The twins curtsy and their suitor bows his head. The twins are attired in a yellow and red dotted dress with a roffled hem and white collars. Their mother is attired in a blue and red dress with a white apron. The twins' father is attired in a green jacket, a white collared shirt, a yellow bow tie, red pants, and black boots. The twins' suitor is attired in a black jacket, a white collared shirt, a red bow tie, red and blue striped pants, and black shoes. He holds a brown hat in his right hand to his chest. Visible in the background of the scene are framed works of art on the wall, a table, a vase with flowers, a window, and a clock. All of the figures are portrayed with exaggerated features. The illustration is  based on a racist series of African American caricatures originally created for Harper’s Weekly in 1878 by Sol Eytinge that satirized the courtship, marriage, and the start of families by "The Twins." A Bismarck Range stove is depicted on the verso of the trade card. Herman Rendtorff was a Chicago stove and hardware merchant whose business operated throughout the latter half of the 19th century., Title from item., Text printed on recto: Introduction of the Twins., Advertising text printed on verso: The celebrated Bismark Range. Manufactured by Burdett, Smith & Co., Troy, New York, And 34 River St., Chicago, Ill., Gift of David Doret.
Happy birthday [graphic].
Racist, birthday card depicting a caricature of an African American boy and a white girl on a candy stick seesaw. In the left, shows the white girl attired in a large, white bonnet; a yellow dress with red polka dots; a blue and white checked smock; orange stockings; and brown shoes, sitting on a red and white striped candy stick. In the right, the barefooted African American boy, attired in an orange shirt and gray pants, sits on the other side of the candy see saw. The fulcrum is a piece of chocolate., Title from item., Date deduced from the visual content., Gift of David Doret and Linda G. Mitchell.
A happy new year [graphic].
Greeting card depicting a racist caricature of an African American man jockey riding a bucking horse in the snow. Shows the African American man jockey attired in a yellow jockey cap, a yellow vest, a pink shirt, a blue bowtie, white breeches, and black boots. He sits on a white horse that is kicking its back legs and hitting a snowman in the right. The snowman has a pipe in his mouth and a large pine branch in his hands. The jockey has lost hold of the reins, which dangle from the horse’s mouth, and his whip is in the snow., Title from item., Date deduced from the visual content., Gift of David Doret.
Heah I is honey wid dem old time Christmas temptations [graphic] / designed by Ruth E. Newton and Elizabeth Manley.
Die cut card depicting a racist caricature of an African American man holding a sprig of mistletoe. The man is balding and has tufts of white hair on the sides of his head and is attired in a yellow and purple scarf, a pink and white checked shirt, a black jacket, red mittens, blue and green striped pants, and black shoes. In his left hand he carries a gray hat with a purple band. In his right hand he holds a sprig of mistletoe, made of wire and cloth, and speaks in the vernacular, “heah I is honey wid dem old time Christmas temptations.” Below him is a small red frame with a depiction of a white woman, attired in a pink bonnet, a yellow coat, white socks, and black shoes, leaning in to kiss a white man, attired in a black hat, a blue jacket, green pants, and black shoes. They are flanked by two pine trees in red containers., Title from item., Date deduced from the visual content., Manuscript note on verso: With all the love in the world - Duke & [Ercil?]., Gift of David Doret and Linda G. Mitchell.
He'p yo'se'f to grapefruit from sunny Florida [graphic].
Post card depicting a racist caricature of an African American boy in a grapefruit orchard. Shows the barefooted boy smiling at the viewer and attired in a red collared jumpsuit with a belt. He holds the branches of a grapefruit tree that is laden with yellow fruit. He speaks in the vernacular to “he’p yo’ se’f to grapefruit from sunny Florida.” More grapefruits lie on the ground around his feet., Title from item., Date deduced from visual content., Series number printed on recto: 146., Series number printed on verso: 63027., Text printed on recto: Robinson., Text printed on verso: Florida is the land of sunshine, flowers and luscious fruits. It is famed for its great groves of oranges and grapefruit, their well-laden boughs heavy with brilliant fruit. Tichnor Quality Views. Made only by Tichnor Brothers, Inc. Boston, Mass. Post Card. Place one cent stamp here. Made in U.S.A., Gift of David Doret.
Here's luck! A jolly Christmas to you [graphic].
Racist Christmas card depicting a caricature of an African American man minstrel singing and playing the accordion. Shows the African American man minstrel attired in a beige top hat with a blue band, a white collared shirt, a pink ascot with a pin, a yellow jacket, a green plaid waistcoat and pants, yellow and white striped socks, and black shoes. He sings with his mouth wide open and pulls a pink accordion apart in both of his hands. Behind him is a white bust of a woman on a pedestal., Title from item., Date deduced from the visual content., Gift of David Doret.
Hiram W. Stout, groceries, &c., 5th and Erie Ave. [graphic].
Racist trade card illustration depicting an African American man musician playing the cello. The man is seated in a crouched position on a green chair. He is attired in a yellow cap, a red and white striped shirt, a dotted blue jacket, yellow and red striped pants, and blue, yellow, and black boots. The man holds the neck of the cello in his left hand and the bow in his right. He is depicted with exaggerated features., Title from item., Title and business name printed on verso., Gift of David Doret.
Hoyer & Milnor, great 99¢ store, 29 N. Third St., Harrisburg, PA. [graphic].
Racist trade card promoting Hoyer & Milnor’s retail store and depicting a caricature of an African American man on a farm with a plow driven by hogs. Shows an African American man, attired in a hat, an orange shirt with black polka dots, blue plaid pants, and black shoes, behind the plow and guiding it by the handles. In the right a team of three pigs pulls the plow. An African American woman, attired in a white head kerchief, a blue dress, and an apron, watches the scene with alarm. She throws her hands up in the air and opens her mouth in exclamation. In the right background, a white house is visible. George Hoyer and George W. Milnor (1856-1925) established the firm Hoyer & Milnor in 1884 and opened a store selling furnishings and fancy goods in Harrisburg Pa. The firm dissolved in 1896., Title from item., Publication information and date from copyright statement: Copyright 1884 by J.H. Bufford's Sons., Series number printed on the recto: 468., Gift of David Doret.
The Hunters three and O.N.T. [graphic].
Circular promoting Clark Thread Company and depicting racist caricatures of African, Asian, and indigenous men. Volume also contains several lines of narrative, promotional text written as a children’s story. The front cover is a color illustration of three white "merry gentlemen" in Cololonial attire and riding on horseback as "they hunt and hunt." The men are attired in tri-corn hats; red jackets; white breeches with riding boots; and white wigs. They ride on a road towards the viewer. The figures are bordered with pictorial details of the Clark’s O.N.T trademark. The rider in the middle raised his hat with his hand. Image is reproduced in black and white on p. [2]. P. [3] shows the horsemen observe three white children standing before them whom they believe "...must be princes. They sew their clothes with O.N.T." P. [4] show the "gentlemen" observe from a distance three African Zulu men. The men drive a lion into a net made of O.N.T. thread. One man is nude except for a feather on his head and bangs a large drum labeled "Clark's O.N.T. spool thread." Another man is attired in a skirt made of palm leaves and carries a shield and arrows. A third man carries arrows and wears a feather on his head. P [5] shows the "hunters" "spy" "three happy Hottentots" who roll down a hill on large spools of Clark's thread in a "chariot race." The three African men have their hair in buns atop their heads and are attired in white shorts and hoop earrings. One man is also attired in a shell necklace, and two men hold spears. P. [6] shows the three men find a Chinese man flying a kite strung with O.N.T. thread thread and to which a Chinese boy is attached. He is seated on a rug with his back to the viewer. To his right is a pipe. His hair is styled in a queue, and he is attired in a white shirt with a vest decorated in a print of dragons and slip-on, cloth shoes., P. [7] shows the white men finding an Inuit man on a sled made from a Clark's spool and pulled over the ice by a team of dogs. The sled driver is attired in a hooded parka and boots. P. [8] the three riders encounter a Native American man reigning in a buffalo with O.N.T. thread. He is attired in knee-high boots; a patterned blanket draped around his chest; hoop earrings; and a feather headdress. P. [9] shows a view of the back of the three riders bordered by pictorial details of the Clark’s O.N.T trademark. The back cover is a color illustration of a white girl with long blonde hair attired in black boots; red stocking; a green dress; and a blue striped apron. She is seated on an oversize spool of O.N.T. thread and playing cat's cradle with a white boy. The boy is attired in a red fez; a green coat; blue stockings; and black boots. The George A. Clark & Brother Company, manufactory of embroidery and sewing thread, was founded in 1863 in Newark, N.J. The firm was renamed Clark & Co. in 1879, and in the 1880s created a six-cord, soft finished thread called "Our New Thread" or "O.N.T." The business merged with J. & P. Coats in 1896, which lead to a series of mergers with fourteen other companies. Into the 21st century, the company continues to manufacture thread under the name Coats & Clark., Title from item., Advertising text printed on verso of front cover: Use Clark's trade mark O.N.T. spool cotton on white spools! It is superior to all others for hand and machine use. Garments sewed with O.N.T. fast black will never show white on the seams after being worn or washed., Advertising text printed on verso of back cover: Use Marshall's linen thread on 200 yard spools. Guaranteed full length. Made from the bext flax, and Milward's Helix Needles in patent wrappers. For sale everywhere., Place of publication deduced from place of operation of advertised business., Date deduced from history of advertised business., Distributor's name printed on p. [1]: George A. Cole, sole agent., Gift of David Doret.
I. Knopf, fine shoes, also trunks & valises. 822 Market St. Phila. [graphic].
Racist trade card promoting I. Knopf's shoe store and depicting a racist caricature of an African American man portrayed with exaggerated features and carrying two bouquets of flowers. Shows the rotund, African American man attired in a yellow hat, a monocle, a white shirt with a red striped collar, a blue bowtie, a yellow waistcoat with red checks, a purple jacket, white gloves, yellow pants, and brown shoes. He holds up two multi-colored flower bouquets, including red roses and white daisies, in his hands. Isidor Knopf (1848-1934) had a store selling shoes and luggage at 822 Market Street, Philadelphia in the 1880s. In the 1900s, he became a pawnbroker at 2501 Frankford Ave., Philadelphia. He advertised in the newspapers as I. Knopf & Sons when he sold forfeited clothing and jewelry from his pawnbroking business as late as 1910., Title from item., Place of publication inferred from place of operation of the advertised business., Date deduced from history of the advertised business., Gift of David Doret.
I tell you, sure de best place to buy pianos, organs, or any kind o' musical merchandise is at Link & Bond's, 20 East Market Street, York, PA. An' dat's a certain fact. [graphic].
Racist trade card depicting a sentimental scene with an African American girl daydreaming while leaning over a fence. She holds her head in her right hand and clothespins in her left. A white sheet hangs over the fence (the advertising text depicted on it). The girl looks into the distance with her mouth agape. She is surrounded by greenery and flowers. She is attired in a blue and white striped cap and an orange and white striped shirtwaist., Title from item., Date inferred from listing of advertised business in 1886 York City Directory., Place of publication deduced from place of operation of advertised business., Gift of David Doret.
If you want to be stylishly shod and comfortably fitted, bring your feet to Lee Reinberg, shoe man, 7 and 11 S. George St., York, PA. [graphic].
Racist trade card illustration depicting a smiling African American boy sitting on top of a crate, eating a piece of watermelon, and holding a larger piece of watermelon in his lap. The boy is attired in a white and blue shirt, brown pants, brown suspenders, and a cap. The image of the boy is surrounded by a gilded golden frame., Title from item., Printer's imprint printed on verso: Yoe Printing Co., Yoe, PA., Text printed on recto: The real thing., Gift of David Doret.
I'm yo' valentine chile! [graphic].
Die cut Valentine card depicting a racist caricature of an African American woman carrying a basket of eggs. Shows the barefooted African American woman portrayed with exaggerated features and attired in a blue bonnet with white polka dots, a blue plaid shirt, a white apron, and a blue and white striped skirt. She smiles at the viewer and speaks in the vernacular, “I’m yo Valentine chile,” as she holds a basket full of eggs in both of her hands., Title from item., Date deduced from the visual content., Gift of David Doret and Linda G. Mitchell.
Imperméables, Au Roi du Caoutchouc [graphic]
Racist trade card promoting Roi du Caoutchouc's trench coats and depicting a bust-length portrait caricature of a fashionable black man. The man is depicted with exaggerated facial features, including a broad smile and long eye lashes. He is attired in a gold, bejeweled crown; gold hoop earrings; a trench coat with the collar raised; and gray turtleneck. Roi du Caoutchouc was a Belgium manufacturer of raincoats and trenchcoats in business originally in the 1920s. Leopold Trepper, a Polish Soviet intelligence agent, acquired the company in 1938 and launched a Brussels operation that expanded into an import-export business called the Foreign Excellent Trenchcoat Company. Trepper used the firm as a front for espionage. In 1940, during World War II, the Germans assumed control of the company., Title from item., Place of publication deduced from place of operation of advertised business., Date deduced from the history of the advertised business., Text printed on recto: Imperméables, Au Roi du Caoutchouc., Advertising text printed on verso: Trouver mieux? Impossible! Les imperméables et gabardines au roi du caoutchouc sont reconnus les meilleurs, les plus élégants, les moins chers. Apercu de quelques prix: Imperméables très solides depuis 45 frs. Trench-coats entièrement doublés et huilés depuis 75 frs. Gabardines entièrement doublées 1/2 soie depuis 95 frs. 55 succursales en Belgique. Bruxelles 103, Boulevard Ad. Max. 161, Chaussée de Waterloo. 141, Rue haute. 51, Rue de Flandre. 15, Chaussée de Louvain. Translation of advertising text: Find better? Impossible! The rubber king's raincoats and garbardines are recognized as the best, the most elegant, the cheapest. Preview of some prices: Very solid waterproofs for 45 frs. Trench-coats fully lined and oiled for 75 frs. Gabardines fully lined 1/2 silk for 95 frs. 55 branches in Belgium. Brussels 103, Boulevard Ad. Max. 161, Waterloo Causeway. 141 High Street. 51 Flanders Street. 15, Leuven Causeway., Gift of David Doret.
In danger [graphic].
Die-cut scrap depicting a racist caricature of an African American man trying to control the horse pulling the cart he is riding in. Shows the man, attired in a white top hat, yellow gloves, a white collared shirt, a blue bowtie, a black jacket with tails, white pants, and black shoes, seated on a two-wheeled cart. He opens his mouth in alarm as he pulls back on the reins of the brown horse hauling the cart. The horse’s mouth is open as it runs off making the cart jerk, causing its right wheel to lift off of the ground. The man also carries a whip in his right hand., Title from item., Date deduced from the visual content., Duplicate copy [P.2017.95.270]., Gift of David Doret.
In danger [graphic].
Die-cut scrap depicting a racist caricature of an African American man trying to control the horse pulling the cart he is riding in. Shows the man, attired in a white top hat, yellow gloves, a white collared shirt, a blue bowtie, a black jacket with tails, white pants, and black shoes, seated on a two-wheeled cart. He opens his mouth in alarm as he pulls back on the reins of the brown horse hauling the cart. The horse’s mouth is open as it runs off making the cart jerk, causing its right wheel to lift off of the ground. The man also carries a whip in his right hand., Title from item., Date deduced from visual content., Duplicate copy [P.2017.95.266]., Gift of David Doret.
In the land of cotton [graphic].
Racist trade card promoting Hart & Smith's steamboat route on the Indian River in Florida. Depicts caricatures of African Americans picking cotton on a plantation. Shows an African American man, attired in a hat, a blue collared shirt with the sleeves rolled up to the elbows, and blue pants, bending over and putting cotton into a large basket. To the left of the man, an African American boy, attired in an orange, short-sleeved shirt and orange pants rolled up to the knees, places cotton into the same basket. In the left, an African American woman, attired in a white headkerchief, a blue shirt and apron, and an orange skirt, bends over to pick up a basket overflowing with cotton. Behind her, an African American woman, attired in an orange dress, apron, and a blue checked shawl, stands with her right hand on her hip and her left hand balancing a large basket on top of her head. A man, attired in a white collared shirt with the sleeves rolled to the elbows and blue pants, walks and steadies a basket on his left shoulder with both hands. In the center background is a large wooden structure and a person picking cotton. In the right background a man attired in a hat sits on a horse and holds his right arm out to two people, one of whom carries a basket on their left shoulder. Hubbard L. Hart (1827-1895) ran the most prominent steamboat line in Florida, helping to make it a tourist destination. In 1883, the Hart Line began a steamboat route on the Indian River. After Hart's death in 1895, his brother-in-law operated the business into the 1920s, when automobile travel rendered it obsolete., Title from item., Publication information and date from the copyright statement: Copyrighted 1882 by J.H. Bufford's Sons., Advertising text printed on verso: Hart & Smith’s Rockledge Line for Indian River. The Steamer “Astatula” leaves Sanford every Monday and Thursday at 8:30 A.M. Arrives at Lake Poinsett next day at 7 A.M. 3 miles to Rockledge by hack. Connecting with Steamer going North Tuesdays and South Fridays. Returning, leaves Poinsett at 3 PM., Tuesday & Friday, arriving at Sanford on Wednesday & Saturday morning, making connections for all points. In January the Steamer Waunita, thoroughly overhauled & furnished, will be put on the line making tri-weekly trips. Accommodations and table will be first class in all respects. Capt. Joe Smith, Manager. E.B. Van Deman, Agent at Sanford., Gift of David Doret.
It stands at the head. "Domestic" sewing machine [graphic].
Racist trade card promoting Domestic Sewing Machine Company and depicting a caricaturized genre scene of an African American family looking to their right at a billboard on the side of a building. The figures are portrayed with exaggerated feaures. Shows an older, squat man, a woman, and three children seated and standing in a horse-drawn cart halted on a dirt road. An older boy stands behind the cart. The man, attired in a top hat; a ragged jacket; a shirt with bowtie; and pants with patches on the knees and suspenders sits smiling and holding in his hands a stick and the reins of his horse that wears blinders. The woman, attired in spectacles; a straw hat with a decorative ribbon that is tied under her chin in a bow; a long-sleeved dress; and a shawl stands up inside the cart. She holds a baby in her left arm and points at the billboard with her right hand. A boy attired in a long shirt and pants sits beside the man in the front of the cart. Behind the man, a girl attired in a bonnet stands. The boy outside of the cart is barefooted and attired in a cap; a shirt; and ragged pants with a hole at the knee, and carries a basket. A dog, its tail between its legs, hunches underneath the cart. In the left, the billboard is illustrated with a sewing machine in the center of a star with the advertising text around it. Text reads: "It stands at the head : Copyrighted by the "Domestic" Sewing Machine Co. The star that leads them all. Unequalled for simplicity of construction ease of operation and durability. The light running "Domestic" sewing machine." In the distant right background a house is visible. William S. Mack & Co. and N.S. Perkins founded the Domestic Sewing Machine Company in 1864 in Norwalk, Ohio. The White Sewing Machine Company bought the company in 1924., Title from item., Date deduced from history of the advertised business., Distributor's imprint printed on recto: E.R. Bumps, jeweller, Waldoboro, ME., Gift of David Doret.
J. & P. Coats thread. Come in Topsey out of the rain. You’ll get wet. Oh! it won’t hurt me missy I’m like Coats black thread de color won’t come off by wettin [graphic].
Racist trade card promoting J.&. P. Coats thread and depicting a caricature of an African American woman domestic washing outside in the rain. Shows an African American woman in the left, attired in a white, short-sleeved shirt, a white and yellow checked apron, a red skirt, and black shoes. She stands outside in the rain and places her right hand on an oversized spool of thread labeled, “J.&P. Coats best six cord 200 yds 40,” which sits on top of a wooden stool. Behind the woman, a pipe fills a wooden wash tub with water. In the right, a blonde-haired, white woman, attired in a blue dress with a white collar and bow tie and a red sash below the waist, white stockings, and black shoes, stands at the door inside the house. She lifts her right hand to the domestic and says, “come in Topsey out of the rain. You’ll get wet.” The African American woman replies in the vernacular, “Oh! It won’t hurt me Missy. I’m like Coats black thread. De color won’t come off by wettin.” Brothers James Coats, Jr. (1803-1845) and Peter Coats (1808-1890) established the firm J.&P. Coats, a thread manufactory. Their brother Thomas Coats (1809-1883) joined the firm soon after. By 1840, three quarters of the British company’s business was with the United States. In 1896, the firm merged with thread manufacturer Clark & Co. and formed J. & P. Coats, Ltd. In 2015, the firm was renamed, “Coats Group.”, Title from item., Date deduced from the history of the advertised business., Advertising text printed on verso: Fast Black Spool Cotton. Does it wear? Does it wash? When a textile fabric must be dyed a pure, rich, deep black, the question that presents itself to the dyer is: “Will these goods be washed in ordinary soap and water, or will they be dipped in some powerful acid, like aquafortis, sulphuric, or muriatic acid?” It they must withstand every-day wear and tear; he will not be so foolish as to fix his black by aid of powerful acids, but will treat the goods mildly, and thus secure superior strength and endurance. In like manner, a druggist will not put a rubber stopper in a bottle filled with sugar and water; he will naturally use an ordinary cork, and save the rubber for resisting violent acids. It is well to look with suspicion on all Acid Tests applied to Spool Cotton. To resist acids, the dyer must use acids at peril of rotting the thread. Intelligent people do not wash their clothes in acid baths. J. & P. Coats’ Black will hold its color as long as any fabric on which it can be used., Gift of David Doret.
Jalapa coffee. [graphic].
Racist trade card promoting Jalapa Coffe and depicting a sentimentalized view of an African American girl. Shows the smiling, cherubic-faced girl in bust-length, standing behind a brick wall and holding a white cloth with embroidered edges over it. The girl holds the cloth in both hands as well as an up-turned feathered duster in her right hand. She is attired in an orange and white ruffled cap, an orange bowtie, a white and orange polka dot shirt, and a blue and white striped apron. Visible in the background are flowers and greenery. Tychsen & Leland was a dealer of coffee, tea, spices, and cigars and was based in Lincoln, Nebraska. The business was established in 1887 by Thomas Tychsen, a European immigrant, and Sam D. Leland., Title from item., Advertising text printed on recto: For strength and flavor superior to all. Try it once and you will use no other. Full weight. One pound packages., Distributor's imprint printed on recto: Tychsen & Leland., Gift of David Doret.
James Boyd's fine shoes. Presented by Irving J. Brown [graphic].
Trade card promoting James Boyd's shoes and depicting a racist caricature of an African American man, possibly a peddler, making a presentation on a stage. The man, portrayed with exaggerated features and manners, stands onstage behind a table leaning forward with his knuckles pressed onto the surface. He is attired in a brown suit jacket with tails; waistcoat; white shirt with a white bow tie; gold cuff links; blue pants; and black boots. In his back pocket are rolled up papers. There is a glass on the table. Beneath it is a top hat. In the foreground, four African American men in the audience listen, interact with each other, and gesture. They are attired in jackets (brown, yellow plaid, or green) and white collared shirts. The far left spectator also wears spectacles. The far right spectator raises his hand as if to ask a question. In the background, some brick is exposed through the painted wall, and a white sign is hung advertising "James Boyd's Fine Shoes." James Boyd started manufacturing shoes as Barrow & Boyd in New York in 1866. Barrow retired in 1877. James Boyd continued the business, and in 1884, he added his sons George and William to the firm becoming James Boyd & Sons. Irving J. Brown began selling shoes in 1877. He had stores at 461 and 944 Congress Street, Portland, Maine until at least 1891., Title from item., Date deduced from the history of the advertised business., Advertising text printed on verso: [I]r[vin]g J. Brown. ([?] of the gold boot.) Dealer [i]n boots and shoes, is the special agent for the sale of my goods in Portland. James Boyd, New York City. Highest medals awarded 1873, 1874, 1876, 1877. (Extract from the judges report.) Forty-second exhibition American Institute. "Case no. 49, made by James Boyd, are perfectly put together. We have seen all the shoes made in New York for the past twenty years, and this is the Best [?] in our judgment. The uppers are beautifully [?], and deserve great credit and reward." Elisha Hanshew, E.W. Eaton, C.J. Murray } Judges. [New Yo]rk, Nov. 1873., Gift of David Doret.
Jas. S. Kirk & Co. soap makers, Chicago. "Satinet" [graphic].
Racist trade card promoting James S. Kirk & Co.’s Satinet soap and depicting a caricature of an African American boy carrying an oversized branch of cotton and a red cloth that trails behind him. Shows the African American boy attired in a torn straw hat, a white collared shirt, white overalls, and white shoes walking with his right leg lifted up. Over his shoulder he carries an oversized branch of cotton with his right hand. Under his left arm he carries a bolt of red cloth which has come unfurled in a train behind him. The cloth reads, “Satinet.” James S. Kirk (1818-1886) began his soap manufactory in 1839 in Utica, New York. He moved his company to Chicago in 1859, offering a variety of soaps including, White Ceylon, Satinet, Calendar, White Russian, and Coronet. The factory was demolished in 1929, and the Company was sold to Proctor & Gamble in 1930., Title from item., Place of publication inferred from place of operation of the advertised business., Date deduced from history of the advertised business., Gift of David Doret.
J.H. Short, dealer in music and musical merchandise, 94 Town Hall, Stamford, Conn. Piano and organ music 1/3 off. [graphic].
Racist trade card illustration promoting Connecticut music dealer J.H. Short and depicting an African American male dandy, with a sheepish expresion, and posed with one hand to his lips and his other hand holding a top hat at his shoulder. He wears a ruffled white shirt, white vest adorned with a wa4tch fob, gold waist coat with tails, and bright blue and white striped pants. He stands in front of a background of fauna details., Title from item., Text printed on recto: I'se a Dude!, Gift of David Doret.
J.H.T. Hopkins, custom and ready made clothing. 658 Main St., Cambridgeport [graphic].
Racist trade card promoting J.H.T. Hopkins's clothing store and depicting a caricature of an African American man sitting on a rock as birds fly towards his hat. Shows the African American man portrayed with exaggerated features attired in a top hat, a long-sleeved shirt, pants, and shoes. He sits on a rock in front of a tree and opens in mouth in alarm as “swallows” fly toward him and into his hat. J.H.T. Hopkins (1858-) was a clothing dealer and had a store in Cambridge, Massachusetts from the 1880s to 1890s., Title from item., Place of publication inferred from place of operation of the advertised business., Date deduced from history of the advertised business., Advertising text printed on recto: Repairing done at short notice. All orders attended to promptly and properly., Text printed on recto: "When the swallows homeward fly." Copyrighted., Card is printed in blue ink., Gift of David Doret.
Kendall M'f'g. Co. Providence. R.I. French laundry soap [graphic].
Racist trade card promoting Kendall’s French Laundry Soap and depicting caricatures of two African American boys carrying an African American girl in a “sedan chair” that is made from a box of Kendall’s soap. In the left, the barefooted boy attired in a straw hat, a red shirt, and white pants with black suspenders holds the tree branch carrying the sedan over his right shoulder with his right hand. His left hand is in his pants pocket. In the right, the barefooted boy attired in a straw hat, a blue shirt, and white pants holds the other end of the branch over his left shoulder with his left hand and carries a branch with red flowers in his right hand. In the center, the girl, attired in a white dress and black shoes, sits inside of a box labeled, “Kendall MFG Co. French Laundry Soap.” She holds a black doll costumed in a hat and white dress on her lap. The boys walk through a grassy field. Henry L. Kendall (1805-1883) founded a soap manufactory in Providence, R.I. in 1827. The Kendall Manufacturing Co. was incorporated in 1860. The Company continued to manufacture soap into the mid-20th century., Title from item., Place of publication inferred from place of operation of the advertised business., Date deduced from history of the advertised business., Advertising text printed on verso:The “French Laundry” is the best soap ever made for all purposes. It is the Oldest Popular Soap in the market, Having Outlived all its Rivals. It has won its way into public favor solely on its merits, and thousands of families who are now using it would not be without it. It is now offered in a 3-4 Pound Pressed Cake, as well as in the old style Pound Bar for such persons as prefer it in that way. If you will give it one trial, you will never be without it. Kendall Mfg. Co. Established 1827. Providence, R.I., Gift of David Doret.
Kendall's Spavin Cure [graphic].
Trade card promoting B.J. Kendall Company, manufacturer of proprietary medicine, and depicting a racist caricature of an African American man jockey portrayed with exaggarated features. Shows the jockey at the reins of a brown race horse running at full speed, its legs lifted off the ground, and two of its shoes flying through the air. The jockey grips the reins of the horse over which he is prone and suspended above. He exclaims in the vernacular, "I only ’plied jist six bottles of Kendall’s Spavin Cure...so he can go in 2:05 3-8. Gwine to put on two bottles more, and den he can go in jist 1:51 7-16." The jockey is attired in a red buttoned jacket and red plaid pants. His red and white striped jockey's cap and one of his black boots have flown off and trail behind him. In the background a wooden fence lines the grounds. An African American man with exaggarated features attired in blue pants and a red plaid shirt and with his mouth open and arms raised in alarm stands within the entryway to the fence. A wooden sign posted on the fence reads, "2.05 3/8." Burney James Kendall (1845-1922) founded the B.J. Kendall Company in Enosburg Falls, Vermont in 1879. Kendall Company was incorporated in 1883. The success of Kendall's Spavin Cure spurred the firms line of products to expand to proprietary medicines for other animals in addition to people. The Company declined and closed in 1957 following the invention of automobiles., Title from item., Date deduced from the history of the advertised business and genre of print., Text printed on recto: "Hi! Dat hoss can jist fly now. I only 'plied jist six bottles of Kendall's Spavin Cure, and it hab taken off all dem four ringbones, two spavins, one curb, two splints, one capped hock and a shoe bile, so he can go in 2:05 3-8. Gwine to put on two bottles more, and den he can go in jist 1:51 7-16. Dat boy nebber shall fly wid dat hoss agin, for he am liable to fly off de track if he 'creases dat speed.", Copyright secured., Advertising text printed on verso: Kendall's Spavin Cure. The great success which has attended the introduction of Kendall's Spavin Cure, in all parts of the United States, has never been equalled, and it is now considered by the very best veterinary surgeons and most extensive horse-owners in the country to be the greatest discovery in veterinary science of the nineteenth century. It is giving the very best of satisfaction wherever urged. A few reasons why: 1. It does not blister or cause any sore, which makes it a desirable liniment for man or beast. 2. It is sure in its effect. 3. It cures spavins, splints, ring-bone, curb, callous, sprains, swellings, galls, lameness, from whatever cause, in any part of the body or limbs. 4. As a household liniment it has no equal. Its effect on human flesh is marvellous. It is used with the most gratifying results in all cases of lameness or any deep-seated pains, such as rheumatism, neuralgia, corns, bunions, frost bites, felons, chillblains, burns or any pain, bruise, cut or lameness which are not affected in the least by ordinary liniments. Kendall's Spavin Cure. Kendall's Spavin Cure, refined expressively for Human Flesh, in red wrappers, price $.50. Kendall's Spavin Cure, in light wrappers, for Animals, price $1.00. The Spavin Cure in light wrappers can be used on human flesh with perfect safety, if desired. B.J. Kendall & Co., Proprietors. Enosburgh Falls, Vt., U.S.A. Sold by all druggists., Testimonial printed on verso: Harrisburg, Pa., Nov. 13, 1880. Dr. B.J. Kendall & Co., Gents: -- I have a very fine mare that has had a bone spavin for a long time. I tried everything man could devise to cure it, but all in vain, and was about to give it up, when a friend of mine in this city came to me and recommended Kendall's Spavin Cure, which I tried with grand results, removing that bone clear and clean; and then I sent twenty-five cents to you for one of your Illustrated Horse Books, and I think there is no better book printed on the horse and his diseases. I have taken great interest in it, and have since sold eighteen copies for you to my neighbors, and will try and do what good I can by getting them for others. Yours truly, G.W. Miller., Gift of David Doret.
Kendall's Spavin Cure [graphic].
Trade card promoting B.J. Kendall Company, manufacturer of proprietary medicine and depicting a racist caricature of an African American man jockey portrayed with exaggerated features. The jockey sits atop a brown, galloping racehorse. He is attired in a red buttoned jacket, red and white striped pants and hat, and black boots. In the left, an African American groomsman portrayed with exaggerated features and attired in white pants and a collared yellow shirt with black dots, and black shoes, stands with one hand raised and another holding a white towel. He speaks in the vernacular that he "nebber will let dat pickaninny ride dat yar hoss agin unless he stops usin' Kendall's Spavin Cure." In the background, a fence marked in red writing "Kendall's Spavin Cure" runs alongthe track. In the right, behind the fence, a white man in a lookout tower holds out his arm and shows a paper marked, "4.17 1/4." Burney James Kendall (1845-1922) founded the B.J. Kendall Company in Enosburg Falls, Vermont in 1879. Kendall Company was incorporated in 1883. The success of Kendall’s Spavin Cure spurred the firms line of products to expand to proprietary medicines for other animals in addition to people. The Company declined and closed in 1957 following the invention of automobiles., Title from item., Date deduced from the history of the advertised business and the genre of print., Text printed on recto: "Golly! I nebber will let dat pickaninny ride dat yar hoss agin unless he stops usin' Kendall's Spavin Cure, 'cause it limbers him up so. In all my 'sperience in the hoss line I nebber seed sich 'provement in an animile afore. Facts am stranger dan friction." Advertising text printed on verso: Kendall's Spavin Cure. The most successful remedy ever discovered, as it is certain in its effects and does not blister. Also excellent for human flesh. Read proof below., Testimonial printed on verso:From Col. L.T. Foster. Youngstown, Ohio, May 10, 1880. Dr. B.J. Kendall & Co., Gents: I had a very valuable Hambletonian colt which I prized very highly; he had a large bone spavin on one joint and a small one on the other, which made him very lame. I had him under the charge of two veterinary surgeons who failed to cure him. I was only one day reading the advertisement of Kendall's Spavin Cure in the Chicago Express. I determined at once to try it, and got our druggists here to send for it; they ordered three bottles; I took them all and thought I would give it a thorough trial; I used it according to directions, and the fourth day the colt ceased to be lame, and the lumps have disappeared. I used but one bottle and the colt's limbs are as free from lumps and as smooth as any horse in the state. He is entirely cured. The cure was so remarkable that I let two of my neighbors have the remaining two bottles, who are now using it. Very respectfully, L.T. Foster. Kendall's Spavin Cure on Human Flesh. Waterloo, Ind., Sept. 7, 1881. Boyer & Campbell, Gentlemen: The bottle of Kendall's Spavin Cure I purchased of you has cured me of a very lame back, (after using almost everything else) the relief was almost instant. I put only a very little on at a time and rubbed it in well. I consider it the best liniment for man or horse extant. I would not do without it for ten times the amount it costs. Yours truly, Hiram Leib., Testimonial printed on verso: Wilton, Minn., Jan. 11, 1881. B.J. Kendall & Co., Gents: Having got a horse book of you by mail a year ago, the contents of which persuaded me to try Kendall's Spavin Cure on the hind leg of one of my horses, which was badly swollen and could not be reduced by any other remedy. I got two bottles of Kendall's Spavin Cure of Preston & Ludduth, druggists of Waseca, which completely cured my horse. about five years ago, I had a three years old colt swelled very bad. I used your remedy as given in your book without rowelling, and I must say to you credit that the colt is entirely cured, which is a surprise not only to myself, but also to my neighbors. You sent me the book for the trifling sum of twenty-five cents, and if I could not get another like it, I would not take twenty-five dollars for it. Yours truly, Geo. Mathews. Kendall's Spavin Cure is put up in two sizes. Refined, expressively for human flesh, in red wrappers, price $.50. In light wrappers, for animals, price, 1.00. That in light wrappers can be used with perfect safety on human flesh, if desired. B.J. Kendall & Co., Proprietors, Enosburg Falls, Vt., U.S.A. Sold by all druggists., Gift of David Doret.
Kerr & Co., 34 Walker St. N.Y. [graphic].
Trade card promoting Kerr & Co.’s thread and depicting a racist caricature of an African American man using Kerr’s thread to move a safe onto a cart. In the right, shows an African American man, attired in a yellow hat, an orange shirt with the sleeves rolled up to the elbows, and green pants, standing on the back of a cart pulled by two white horses. He turns the handle attached to an oversized spool of “Kerr’s Cotton” thread, which is pulling a large, black safe labeled, “Herring’s Champion New York; Kerr & Co., 34 Walker St. N.Y.” onto the cart. A white man, attired in a black hat, an orange shirt with the sleeves rolled to the elbows, and green pants, stands behind the safe to steady it. In the left, a crowd of people look on to the scene, including a white man police officer; a brown haired white girl attired in an orange hat, an orange dress with a white lace collar and a blue sash at the waist, and white stockings and shoes; a white man with a black mustache, attired in a black top hat, a white shirt, a black jacket, a yellow coat, and white pants and shoes; and a white woman attired in an orange hat with a white feather, an orange dress with white checks, and a black shawl. Above them a crane holds an oversized spool of black thread labeled, “Kerr & Co. Warranted 200 yds machine thread. Six cord (40) soft finish.” In the right is a building where people look through the windows at the scene. In the second story window in the left are two white men with mustaches attired in white collared shirts and blue jackets. In the right window are two white women attired in an orange dress and a blue dress respectively and hats. The building reads, “six-cord, soft-finish, new spool cotton.”, Peter Kerr (1818-1869) was a thread manufacturer who moved to the United States in 1866 and opened a factory in New York City. He partnered with his brother-in-law George A. Clark's thread company. Clark & Company later merged with J.&P. Coats in 1896., Title from item., Place of publication inferred from place of operation of advertised business., Date deduced from history of the advertised business., Advertising text printed on recto: Kerr's cotton never breaks. It is a safe thread., Gift of David Doret.
Keuchen Cura. An old Dutch remedy for coughs and colds [graphic].
Trade card promoting Caldwell Sweet & Bros.' patent medicine Keuchen Cura and depicting a farm scene of two African American men plowing a field. One man is seated atop a two-wheeled plow pulled by two mules. He holds the reins as the mule to the right kicks its hind legs into the air. Another African American man is in front of the mules trying to lead them. He pulls on the reins of the mule on the left, which has lowered its rear to the ground refusing to move forward. He is attired in a white shirt and blue pants. The man on the plow is attired in a brimmed hat, blue shirt with brown vest, and blue pants with black stripes. Men are depicted with exaggerated features. In the distant background, in the right, is another mule-drawn plow and a house. Brothers Caldwell and Abel S. Sweet formed Caldwell Sweet & Bros. in Bangor, Maine in 1877. The druggists of proprietary medicines continued the business into the 1920s., Title from item., Place of publication deduced from place of operation of advertised business., Date deduced from the history of the advertised business and visual content., Series number on recto: 468., Advertising text printed on verso: Keuchen Cura. An old Dutch remedy for coughs and colds. Is the most remarkable remedy of the day. Nothing like it has ever before been put upon the market. Singers and Public Speakers will find it especially valuable to them in allaying and preventing irritation of the throat. Caldwell Sweet & Bros., proprietors, Bangor, Maine. Sold by all traders., Gift of David Doret.
La main chaude [graphic].
Trade card specimen depicting a white boy crying in the lap of a white girl after another white girl has hit him. In the left, shows the boy, attired in a white shirt, a brown jacket, brown pants, red socks, and brown shoes, bent over and crying into the lap of a girl. The girl, attired in a green bonnet, a gray dress with white ruffles at the collar and sleeves, white stockings, and brown shoes, sits on the grass and comforts the boy, placing both her hands on his head. In the center, shows the girl, attired in a pink and white bonnet, a red dress, a pink checked smock, white stockings, and brown shoes, lift her right hand up and wave a fist at the boy. Her left hand holds the hand of another boy, attired in a straw hat with a red band, a green shirt with a white ruffled collar, green shorts, red and white striped socks, and brown shoes. The boy holds the string to a pull toy wagon in his left hand. In the right background are bound wheat sheaves., Title from item., Date deduced from the visual content., Manuscript note on verso: George Smith., Illustration of girl in pink bonnet is hand colored in purple ink., Gift of David Doret.
Laird, Schober & Mitchell's shoes. Too fine to blacken! [graphic].
Racist trade card depicting a white boy kicking an African American shoe shine boy from behind. The white boy wears a white clown outfit with blue details, jumps rope, and kicks his left foot in the air. The shoe shiner, his back to the viewer, is propelled into the air. His top hat, shoe shining stool, and open can of shoe polish flies away from him. Laird, Schober & Mitchell's Shoes began operating in 1870. The partners included Samuel S. Laird, George P. Schober and George A. Mitchell., Title from item., Advertising text on verso: A Request, [Before] purchasing Shoes Examine Ours. Prices are now reduced and goods finest manufactured. Laird, Schober & Mitchell, 1133 Arch [Street], Philad., Gift of David Doret.
Lautz Bro's and Co.'s soaps Buffalo NY. U.S.A. Beat that if you can. [graphic].
Racist trade card depicting a well-dressed white man "cleaning" an African American man. The men smile and stand behind a laundry bucket of soapy water marked "Beat That If You Can. Soaps" on a table labeled "U.S.A." The white man holds the top of the African American's head with his left hand and a soapy brush with his right. The African American man looks toward the white man and raises up his left hand. The right half of his face is depicted with a white skin tone. The white man has mutton chops, and wears a brown jacket, a blue bowtie, and a monocle. The black man wears a red button-down shirt with an open collar. Lautz Bros. & Co. was originally founded in 1853 in Buffalo, New York as the Lautz Company by German immigrant Wilhelm Lautz Sr. After his death in 1866, his wife, sons, and grandsons continued to run the firm from Buffalo, New York through the early 20th century., Title from item., Advertising text printed on verso: Use Lautz Bros. & Co's. Pure and Healthy Soaps! No so-called Greases used in manufacturing them, but made only from the best material obtainable. Acme Soap, (Cut Full Pounds.) Is the best Bar Soap in the Market. Try it! Nos. 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38 and 40 Hanover Street, Buffalo, N.Y. Branch Offices. No. 163 Chambers Street, New York. No. 13 South Front Street, Philadelphia. No. 38 River Street, Chicago., Printer's imprint in upper and lower right margins of print., Gift of David Doret.
Let Dinah Black tell you the story [graphic].
Racist mechanical, fold-out advertisement for black enamel depicting a caricature of an African American mammy figure "Dinah" on the exterior. The figure is portrayed with a red headwrap, red hoop earrings, and exaggerated features. The interior of the advertisement includes the caricature as the illustration of the "I'se Dinah Black" trademark in the center of the print. Several vignette images depicting various tools and appliances, including a radiator, iron fence, pencil sharpener, heater, and shears border the logo and advertising text. Maloney Oil & Manufacturing was established by Martin Maloney in Scranton, PA in 1874. He started the firm with profits from an earlier grocery business. Standard Oil Company acquired Maloney Oil in 1929., Title from item., Printed on recto: Printed in U.S.A. No. K46., Date inferred from content and dates of operation of business advertised., Distributor's imprint stamped on back of fold out: Maloney Oil & Mfg. Co. 141 Meridian St. Scranton, PA., Advertising text printed on back of fold out: Made by the makers of Kyanize - It's Good., Advertising text printed on inner panels of fold out: Use Anywhere. Stovepipe Rusty! That looks slack. Refine it with Dinah Black. When passing children scar the fence, Get Dinah Black for thirty cents. For Heaters, Farm Tools, Implements, Dinah Black is just immense! To make old engines glow with pride Dinah Black serves far and wide. Outdoor iron rusts with ease, So Dinah Black it, if you please. Shears and shovels, plows and carts, Dinah Black keeps bright their parts. Indoors, outdoors; high or low Dinah Black will make things glow. No benzine - small chance of fires - that's Dinah Black all over. Buyers. Only the name and label is improved - we couldn't improve the product, which is the same as we sold before under the name, Black Dazzle and made according to our own secret formula. The same old reliable black enamel for stove pipes, heaters, and al wood and iron work, indoors or out. On with ease and dry in a day. The Good Black Enamel On Anything., Gift of David Doret.
Lift your hands in the sanctuary, and bless the Lord. Psa cxxxiv.2 [graphic].
Racist, trade card specimen depicting an African American boy holding a jar. Shows the half-length portrait of the African American boy attired in a wide-brimmed straw hat, a white shirt with an oversized collar, a yellow overall shirt, and green pants. He places his left hand to his mouth and in his right hand carries a container with a lid. In the right are pink roses, and in the top left is a blue bird flying. Psalm 134:2 is printed underneath the portrait., Title from item., Date deduced from the visual content., Gift of David Doret.
The light-running New Home sewing machine, D.S. Ewing, general agent, 1127 Chestnut St. Phila, PA. [graphic].
Racist trade card illustration depicting an African American family riding a donkey and leaving their small cabin, which is likely located on or near a plantation. The family consists of a father, son, mother, and baby. Surrounding the family are two small dogs, two children waving goodbye on a wooden fence, a child who tugs the donkey's tail, a woman bidding the group farewell with her arms outstrethced, and a man who sits on the steps of the cabin in the background. A second cabin is visible in the background of the image behind the wooden fence. The father is attired in a yellow coat, a white and black top hat, and shoes. The son is attired in a white dotted shirt, a hat, plaid yellow pants, and shoes. The mother is attired in a yellow shirt, a white bonnet, a blue dotted shirt and shoes. She holds the baby in a wrapped blanket and gestures toward the onlookers behind her. A sign shaped like an arm with a hand pointing its index finger is situated beside the wood fence and reads "New home." In the upper right corner is a circular image of a New Home sewing machine. Daniel S. Ewing was a Philadelphia merchant who sold sewing machines at his eponymous store. The store was located in Philadelphia on Chestnut Street., Title from item., Text on recto: We's gwine to get a new home we is!, Gift of David Doret.
Lily White "the flour the best cooks use," Valley City Milling Co. Grand Rapids, Mich. [graphic].
Racist trade card illustration depicting a vignette of a smiling African American infant sitting in a yellow high chair. A cup of water is overturned on the table attached to the high chair and water spills over the edge. The baby gestures toward the cup with her right hand puts her left index finger in her mouth. The barefoot child is attired in a blue, red, and white plaid dress and a white bib with red embroidery. Lily White flour was manufactured by the Valley City Milling Company, which was established in 1884 and eventually became known as the Grand Rapids Roller Mills., Title from item., Advertising text on verso: Your children will not hanker after cake and other injurious dainties so much if you provide them wiht light, sweet tasting bread made of Lily White, "the flour the best cooks use." This bread has the good old fashioned bread flavor which children like and the more they eat of it the better their general health will be. Give them more bread and less meat. Always for sale by the dealer who gave you this card. Valley City Milling Co. Grand Rapids, Mich., Gift of David Doret.
Lines Bros., the largest retail dealers in the state! Proprietors of ten shoe stores. Buffalo store- 95 E. Seneca St. Boots, shoes & rubber goods. Low prices. Plain figures. [graphic].
Racist trade card depicting a comic, genre scene between a new white father and an African American woman caregiver. Shows the young, African American woman holding to her chest three white babies wrapped in blankets. The babies' father stands across from her and exclaims "Did any of them get away?" In the background, the new white mother is visible laying in a bed with a blanket up to her chin. The African American woman wears a cap adorned with a ribbon, an apron, and a long skirt. The white man wears mutton chops and is attired in an evening coat over a suit with a bowtie.The figures are depicted with caricaturized and exaggerated features., Title from item., Image caption on recto: Excited Father - "Did Any of Them Get Away." "Triplets'", Advertising text on verso: Lines Bros., Largest Retail Dealers in the State Proprietors of Ten Shoe Stores! Buffalo Store, No. 95 E. Seneca St., Boots, Shoes & Rubber Goods. Stores at Troy, Albany, Geneva, Elmira, Buffalo, Lockport, Rochester, Amsterdam, Schenectady, and Canandaigua., Gift of David Doret.
Lines Bros., the largest retail dealers in the state! Proprietors of ten shoe stores. Buffalo store- 95 [Seneca St.]. Boots, shoes & rubber goods. Low prices. Plain figures. [graphic].
Racist trade card depicting a comic scene between an African American woman and African American man. Shows the woman hitting a man in the face with the back of her right hand. She clutches an umbrella in her left hand. The man falls backwards with his arms and legs splayed out. The woman is attired in a long striped dress, a dot-patterned apron, and a hat with a flower adornment. She is portrayed with exaggerated features., Title from item., Date inferred from 1884 Buffalo City Directory., Image caption on recto: A mistaken identity., Adverstising text on verso: Lines Bros., Largest Retail Dealers in the State Proprietors of Ten Shoe Stores! Buffalo Store, No. 95 E. Seneca St., Boots, Shoes & Rubber Goods. Stores at Troy, Albany, Geneva, Elmira, Buffalo, Lockport, Rochester, Amsterdam, Schenectady, and Canandaigua., Place of publication inferred from place of business advertised., Gift of David Doret.
Look back gentlemen, into the future / W. [graphic].
Racist trade card promoting Frederick A. Rex & Company's Peerless Coffee and depicting a caricature of an African American man peddler standing on a stage. The man, attired in a blue plaid suit with gold buttons, a white shirt with an enormous collar around the neck, and black shoes, is portrayed with an oversized head and exaggerated features. He stands behind a small table on a stage, places his left hand on the table, raises his right hand in the air, and winks his left eye. In the right on the stage is top hat turned upside down with an orange cloth coming of out it. In the left leaning against the table is a green umbrella with a black handle. Frederick A. Rex (1850-1916) founded the Frederick A. Rex Company in the 1880s which manufactured coffee and tea. The firm had an office in Philadelphia and a mill in Camden, N.J., Title from item., Place of publication from place of operation of advertised business., Date deduced from history of advertised business., Advertising text printed on verso: The Peerless Coffee, finest coffee sold. Always ask your Grocer for this Popular Brand, and you will be sure to have the best. Roasted and packed by Fred'k A. Rex & Co. 39 North Front St. Philadelphia. Mills, Camden, N.J. Illustration of a square package labeled, "The Peerless Coffee.", Gift of David Doret., Library copy has manuscript inscription on the verso: Emma J. Hottle.
The love drop [graphic].
Racist, card depicting a genre scene of an African American woman fortune teller with three white women clients. Shows the elderly African American woman, attired in a red head kerchief, spectacles, a yellow shawl, a long-sleeved white dress, and a white apron, sitting on a green, wooden chair and tea reading. She pours tea out of a cup, and it drips into a small bottle. A saucer is on the floor below. The illustration’s title, “The Love Drop” refers to a tea leaf reader’s term for the last drop that falls from the cup, which would supposedly provide a glimpse into affairs of love. In the right, three young white women look on at the fortune teller. The blond-haired white woman, attired in a hat decorated with flowers and a long-sleeved pink dress with black decorative ribbons, sits on the floor on a rug with her parasol next to her. To her right, seated on a wooden chair, the brown-haired woman, attired in a hat decorated with a black ribbon and red flowers and a yellow dress with black lace accents, leans forward holding her parasol in both hands underneath her chin. Sitting on the chair’s right armrest, the blond-haired woman, attired in a green dress decorated with black ribbons, looks on. Behind the women is an open hearth with a black pot hanging above the fire. A clothesline of laundry hangs in front of the hearth. In the left is a table with a red tablecloth and a shelf above it that has a copper coffeepot and plate. There are cups and saucers on the floor and a round container possibly of red knitting. A chair is visible in the far right., Title from item., Text printed on recto: The Love Drop. From Painting by Harry Roseland., Publication information and date from the copyright statement: Copyright 1903 by Harry Roseland., Gift of David Doret.

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