Everitt Seeds, 1900
The seedlings of a new century
To start the new year, a catalog from the very start of a new century – January 1900 Continue reading The seedlings of a new century
Category: Tools of the Trades
Everitt Seeds, 1900
Abbot Magic Catalog, 1997
Tricks and Treats
Abbot Magic Catalog #25, 1997 I ask you – how many catalogs feature products named a “modernistic amputation?” Only catalogs for magicians, that’s what. Want to saw a lady in half? Escape from chains? Make a Ghost walk? The Abbot’s catalog will reveal all the secrets. Actually, they never reveal the secrets in the catalog … Continue reading Tricks and Treats
Sears, 2009
21st-Century Sears, Well-Tooled.
In 2009, 16 years after the demise of the “Big Book” Sears was still pumping out awesome specialized publications like this tool catalog, whose layouts and photography here could set any handyman’s heart racing…. Continue reading 21st-Century Sears, Well-Tooled.
Sears Tombstones, 1906
The End of the Line
For many of its 125 years, Sears had you covered from cradle to grave. As proof: tombstones for that final act. Continue reading The End of the Line
Presto Recording Corp, 1940
Presto – You’re a Recording Star!
You could be forgiven for thinking this looks like a mad scientist’s industrial-strength DJ mixing console. You wouldn’t be far off… Continue reading Presto – You’re a Recording Star!
Victor Records, 1918
High Technology in Education – 1918 style
Schools can fall prone to gadget envy just like the rest of us. In 1918 this must have involved buying Victrola record players and finding ways to use 78rpm records in educational situations. Continue reading High Technology in Education – 1918 style
Practical Drawing Company, 1923
Back to School Around the Globe
It’s back to school time for kids everywhere. Teaching aids have shifted a lot in 95 years… Continue reading Back to School Around the Globe
Eugene Dietzgen, 1921
Engineer’s Essentials
Consider the slide rule: once upon a time, the inescapable shorthand symbol of the engineer. As late as 1970, slide rules were ubiquitous in science and engineering. And in 1980 they were extinct…. Continue reading Engineer’s Essentials
Amusement Supply Catalog, 1906
Amusement for Profit: The Movies Begin
In 1906, the aspiring young entrepreneur could turn to a catalog like this and consider a career showing pictures – pictures that moved! Continue reading Amusement for Profit: The Movies Begin
ACF Buses, 1928
Where are the double-decker buses of yesteryear?
Why double-decked buses have thrived in England to this day but never met much success in America, is a mystery to the author. Double-deck buses are just so…cool and entertaining… Continue reading Where are the double-decker buses of yesteryear?