What began as a New England tradition gradually spread to other states, although not without resistance.| Shannon Selin
The Wellington Door Knocker was invented by London ironmonger David Bray in 1814. Door knockers were a common feature of 19th-century life, until replaced by the electric doorbell.| Shannon Selin
Transparencies (paintings on see-through paper or cloth) were a DIY craze in the early 19th century.| Shannon Selin
Panoramas were large circular paintings that aimed to give the viewer the experience of being physically present in the scene being depicted - an early attempt at virtual reality.| Shannon Selin
In 1828, a young French girl with the words "NAPOLEON EMPEREUR" visible in her eyes was exhibited at London's Royal Bazaar.| Shannon Selin
A hostess in Regency London had plenty to do to get her house ready for an evening party, even if she did have servants to help her.| Shannon Selin
These money-saving tips for students, entitled “Twelve Golden Rules of Prudent Economy," could usefully be heeded by anyone at any age, even today.| Shannon Selin