Alexia MacClain is a Library Technician at the National Museum of American History Library. She began working for Smithsonian Libraries and Archives on the trade literature inventory project in 2005. In 2007, Alexia moved on to her current position as Library Technician. She continues to work with the Trade Literature Collection in addition to handling other library duties including interlibrary loan. Alexia holds a B.A. in Historic Preservation from Mary Washington College.
Creating a beautiful garden takes time, energy, and patience. This labor and time-saving implement might have caught the attention of gardeners in the early 20th Century
If one of your New Year's resolutions was to finally organize that paper pile, take a look at the 19th-century devices used to store and protect important documents
Whether you were headed over the fields of snow with family or prepping deliveries with Rudolph, this early 20th century catalog from Sturtevant-Larrabee Co. had the perfect sleigh for your winter activities
An 1896 trade catalog in our National Museum of American History Library explains how the Davis Sewing Machine Company pivoted to bike sales at the turn of the 20th century
For National Library Week, explore the tools of a vintage library circulation desk. In 1918, they might not have had computers to circulate and track library books, but their paper-based systems were well-thought out. Listening carefully and you can almost hear the "ca-thunk" of the due date stamp!
This mid-19th century advertising circular proposes a new idea for doing laundry. What it lacks in detailed description, it makes up for with powerful testimonials.
"Sports suits" and "suspender skirts" might not be the focus of New York Fashion Week but we're enjoying the vintage charm found in a Smithsonian Trade Literature Collection from the early 20th century
Form meets function with these decorative storage options found in a Lazier Brothers trade catalog from the 19th century. Discover the possibilities of interior decorating with cloverleaf stands, corner whatnots, and more.
Tissue paper can be used for more than just gift wrapping. Flip through this Dennison Mfg. Co. trade catalog from over a century ago to learn the possibilities of making paper flowers and even landscape scenes out of crepe and tissue paper.
Take a trip back to the 19th Century for a glimpse into kitchens. Burdett, Paris & Co. manufactured stoves such as "Our Old Home" and other household items like the Dial iron heater in this 1868 trade catalog.
In the early 20th century, manufacturer and candy maker Samuel Carey produced machinery, like cocoa roasters and chocolate paste mixers, for confectioners in the United States. This trade catalog from around 1915 gives us a look at the tools of the trade.
Early 20th century trade catalogs in the National Museum of American History Trade Literature Collection highlight a range of sturdy, vintage satchels and trunks.
In the early 20th century, retailers John Wanamaker and Herr, Thomas & Co courted consumers with a wide range of furnishings. Take a look back at some very familiar home goods, like beds and drapes, and some lesser-known, like the biaphone and cuspidor.
Take a step back in time to a library at the turn of the 20th century. Many of the tools and supplies that were used to keep the library running might be familiar, but some have been replaced by more modern technology.
As winter winds down and spring approaches, outdoor activities start to look more appealing. How did people a 100 years ago spend their free time outside? The National Museum of American History Library's Trade Literature Collection offers a few clues to some very recognizable pastimes.
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