Smithsonian Voices

From the Smithsonian Museums

Alexia MacClain

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.

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The Tools of a Real-Life Willy Wonka

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.

Herr, Thomas & Co., Pittsburg, PA. Catalogue No. 101 (1907), page 74, Dresser Trunk, Suit Case, Leather Suit Case, Cabinet Bag, Trunk, Steamer Trunk, Hand Bag or Satchel.

Pack Your Bags for 1907

John Wanamaker, New York, NY. Spring & Summer Catalog (1915), inside back cover, Rugs.

Vintage Furniture Finds from the Early 20th Century

Murray & Baker, Chicago, IL. Awnings and Tents, Signs and Banners (1882), page 28, “Adams and Westlake Oil Stove.” (Smithsonian Libraries and Archives)

Roughing It in the 19th Century

Library Bureau, Boston, MA. Classified Illustrated Catalog of the Library Department of Library Bureau (1899), page 82, Perforating Stamp. (Smithsonian Libraries and Archives)

Vintage Supplies that Kept Libraries Running

John Wanamaker, New York, NY. Spring & Summer Catalog (1915), front cover. (Smithsonian Libraries and Archives)

Looking at Leisure through Early 20th Century Trade Catalogs

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