Geography: Madison

This archival item consists of an envelope and an accompanying advertisement for W. P. Levy & Son, a booksellers, stationers, printers, and bookbinders in Madison, Indiana. The envelope, dated around January 1, 1875, contains an early advertisement and a stamp. The included advertisement features four sample pen points. The materials provide insight into the business practices and advertising strategies of a Jewish-owned business in 19th-century Indiana.

This trade card advertises R.E. Rice, a grocer located in Madison, Connecticut. The card features an image of a fruit stand laden with a variety of fruits, including apples, grapes, oranges, and lemons. The front of the card is dominated by a large, colorful illustration of the fruit stand and a smaller image of R.E. Rice standing at the counter. The back of the card is blank.

Billhead for Wm. P. Levy, Bookseller, Stationer, Binder, Plain and Decorative Printer, and Blank Book Manufacturer, located in Madison, Indiana. Dated February 16, 1866. The billhead includes a transaction record for the purchase of various items from the business, such as stationery, picture frames, and other goods, by W. G. Wharton. The billhead features a printed header, ornate Victorian-style lettering, and a small, detailed company logo depicting a book.

This record contains two trade cards advertising two related businesses: Isidor Klein & Co. and H. A. Klein & Co. The front of the first card displays a lithograph of a picturesque rose garden and lake scene. The back (second image) features a full advertisement listing both companies. Isidor Klein & Co., wine merchants, is located at 2139 Central Ave., Cincinnati, O., while H. A. Klein & Co., whiskey merchants, is situated at 134 East Main Street, Madison, Ind. The style of the illustration and printing suggest a date around the late 19th century.