A Deep Dive into the Brooklyn Public Library’s Fulton Street Trade Card Collection

A Deep Dive into the Brooklyn Public Library’s Fulton Street Trade Card Collection

The Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) houses a treasure trove of historic artifacts, including the remarkable Fulton Street Trade Card Collection. This collection not only showcases the artistic creativity of the time but also offers invaluable insights into the commercial and social fabric of Brooklyn and beyond in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Understanding Trade Cards

Trade cards were an early form of advertising, proliferating in the 19th century as a means for businesses to promote their goods and services. These colorful, often ornate cards were typically distributed by merchants and displayed in shops, enticing customers with vivid imagery and promotional messages. The Fulton Street Trade Card Collection is significant for several reasons:

• Cultural Reflection: They reflect the culture and societal norms of the time.
• Artistic Value: The artistic design of these cards represents the aesthetic tendencies of their era.
• Commercial History: They offer insights into the marketing techniques of the 19th and early 20th centuries.

The Fulton Street Trade Card Collection

Collected over many years, the Fulton Street Trade Card Collection includes more than 3,000 cards, each telling its own story. Here are some key highlights of the collection:

Significant Pieces

1. Historic Businesses: Cards from famous Brooklyn businesses, including local grocers and retailers.
2. Artistic Collaborations: Notable artists contributed to the designs, making these cards significant art pieces.
3. Civic Life: Cards that depict community events, parades, and local happenings.

Impact on Local History

The importance of the Fulton Street Trade Card Collection lies not only in its artistic and commercial value but also in what it reveals about the evolution of Brooklyn. Researching these cards allows historians and the public alike to:

• Trace Commercial Trends: Understanding how businesses marketed themselves helps trace the economic development of Brooklyn.
• Explore Social Changes: Analyzing the imagery and messages provides context to social changes in the community.
• Preserve Memories: Collectively, these cards preserve the memory of local businesses long gone.

Visiting the Brooklyn Public Library

For those interested in exploring the Fulton Street Trade Card Collection, the BPL offers various resources:

• Exhibitions: Regular exhibitions showcase different aspects of the collection.
• Digitized Access: Many cards have been digitized and are accessible online for research and enjoyment.
• Educational Programs: The library frequently conducts educational programs and workshops related to local history and the arts.

Conclusion

In summary, the Fulton Street Trade Card Collection at the Brooklyn Public Library is a significant cultural resource, revealing much about the society, economy, and artistry of its time. By preserving these unique artifacts, the library continues to provide invaluable insights into Brooklyn’s rich history and the evolution of commerce and community life.

Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply curious about the past, the Fulton Street Trade Card Collection is sure to captivate and educate. Visit the Brooklyn Public Library today to uncover the stories behind these fascinating cards!