Subject: Minstrelsy

A photograph of Al Jolson. The photograph dates from January 1, 1918. The photograph's location is unknown.

A photograph of Al Jolson. The photograph is undated, but based on contextual clues, it's likely to be from around 1918. The image is part of the M Collection at the university library.

This item is a trade card advertising Morris Cohen, a leading clothier and merchant tailor located at 193 Main Street in Danbury, Connecticut. The card features a vibrant color lithograph caricature of a man in a top hat, suit, and holding a cigar, consistent with late 19th-century advertising styles, possibly depicting a minstrel figure. The reverse side of the card is blank.

This trade card advertises J. Levy's Star Clothing House located at 130 Washington Street in Binghamton, New York. The front of the card features a caricature of a Black minstrel performing on a telephone. This imagery reflects the racist stereotypes prevalent in American popular culture during the late 19th century. The business name, "Star Clothing House," and the address are clearly printed beneath the illustration. The back of the card is blank. The card's imagery and subject matter should be considered within the historical context of racism and minstrelsy.

This trade card advertises Nathan's Shoe Establishment, located at 221 Sixth Avenue between 14th and 15th Streets in New York City. The front of the card (Image 1) depicts a caricature of a Black minstrel, labeled as "Card No. 58." The illustration is a visual representation of the racist minstrelsy that was prevalent in American entertainment at the time. The back of the card (Image 2) provides additional information: "Headquarters for the Patent Ankle-Supporting Shoes; Ankle Supporting Shoe Company 44 Warren Street, NYC." The back also indicates the card number, 58. The imagery and subject matter reflect the social and cultural norms of the late 19th century. The back of the card is not blank.