What do you do when you are out and about and have a craving for a quick snack? Shoppers, picnickers, theatregoers, or someone simply out for a stroll in the more »| Smithsonian Libraries and Archives / Unbound
Camping, hiking, and enjoying the outdoors are common summer pastimes. This trade catalog from 1919 shows how visitors in the early 20th Century might have explored the wonders of Yellowstone more »| Smithsonian Libraries and Archives / Unbound
Gardens provide us food, sustenance, exercise, and pleasure. Gardens also require a lot of work. It takes time, energy, and patience to grow a garden. In the early 20th century, more »| Smithsonian Libraries and Archives / Unbound
Trophies, cups, and plaques. These are typical awards that might be presented at a ceremony today. How were these types of awards designed in the past? Are there similarities or more »| Smithsonian Libraries and Archives / Unbound
The Trade Literature Collection covers a multitude of subjects. As might be expected, many of the catalogs advertise products. These might be items such as clothing, furniture, bicycles, or even more »| Smithsonian Libraries and Archives / Unbound
It seems as if libraries have always had the challenge of shelving more books in less space. How did libraries in the late 19th century deal with space constraints? One more »| Smithsonian Libraries and Archives / Unbound
In the early 20th Century, a knock on the door might have come from a salesperson offering the latest in cosmetics or household supplies. How did salespeople at that time more »| Smithsonian Libraries and Archives / Unbound
Two men set off to ascend a mountain located in Colorado called Pikes Peak. Their transportation was a vehicle called the Locomobile, and this trade catalog traces their journey on more »| Smithsonian Libraries and Archives / Unbound
As a new year begins, the idea of sorting or reorganizing files might be running through our minds. Without the use of computers, how were important records filed or accessed more »| Smithsonian Libraries and Archives / Unbound
It’s been a busy year! Indulge us as we take a trip down memory lane and highlight our top blog posts of 2022. In no particular order, here are five more »| Smithsonian Libraries and Archives / Unbound
Imagine riding through a landscape blanketed in snow. Whether it’s a family outing, a trip to deliver goods, or simply a pleasure ride, this early 20th Century sleigh catalog includes more »| Smithsonian Libraries and Archives / Unbound
With Thanksgiving just around the corner, we might be thinking of delicious food. Or perhaps we are realizing how much time it will take to prepare such a meal. Modern more »| Smithsonian Libraries and Archives / Unbound
The Trade Literature Collection gives us a small glimpse into the past. It includes catalogs on a variety of topics, including undertakers’ supplies. These catalogs illustrate coffins, grave guards, and more »| Smithsonian Libraries and Archives / Unbound
If you were sick at the turn of the 20th Century, a doctor might have visited you at home. This was called a house call. But to do this, doctors more »| Smithsonian Libraries and Archives / Unbound
Can a particular kind of retail furniture help grocers save money and prevent food waste? In a World War I era trade catalog, Sherer-Gillett Co. promotes a piece of furniture more »| Smithsonian Libraries and Archives / Unbound
Recently, I stumbled across a trade catalog that made me pause. As I looked at its vibrantly illustrated front cover, I thought of relaxing, summer days at the beach. It more »| Smithsonian Libraries and Archives / Unbound
At first glance, this trade catalog appears to be typical. It provides general information for steamship travelers. But as I turned to the last few pages, I stumbled across something more »| Smithsonian Libraries and Archives / Unbound
When it comes to building a new home, there are so many things to consider. Should it be multi-level or one floor? Will it have a basement? Do you want more »| Smithsonian Libraries and Archives / Unbound
Before we had online circulation systems, barcodes on books, and automated due date reminders, libraries used paper-based systems for everyday tasks. This required book cards, book pockets, charging trays, and more »| Smithsonian Libraries and Archives / Unbound
Today the task of laundry is simple. We load machines with clothes, add laundry detergent and softener, and check settings. But essentially, the modern washing machine and dryer do the more »| Smithsonian Libraries and Archives / Unbound
Today in the 21st Century, we have several options for shopping. Two options that might immediately come to mind are visiting stores to shop in person or ordering online from more »| Smithsonian Libraries and Archives / Unbound
Every dwelling has its own unique qualities. How do you make your space reflect your personality? The furniture, decorations, and wall hangings all combine to make it feel like home. Let’s flip through the pages of a trade catalog and discover the possibilities of furnishing a home long ago.| Smithsonian Libraries and Archives / Unbound