Colonial America
Merchant William Jackson Advertising Handbill/Trade Card
August 19, 1769-Dated (in Receipt Signed by "William Jackson" for a silk purchase on the blank reverse) Copper Plate Engraved and Printed Advertising Handbill / Trade Card for Merchant "William Jackson" of Boston, Very Fine.
Merchant "William Jackson" of Boston, who was a major importer of British manufactured goods. It is one of only a few types comprising all the known examples of the 18th century Trade Cards and Handbills engraved and printed for local Boston merchants. Ornate and decorative, measures about 6.5" x 7 5/8". This Trade Card was made during the period of growing patriotic feelings of the general population of Boston in that era. In fact, the Store of William Jackson became an important focal point of the hated British "Townshend Acts" Boycott, and "Boston Riots" that soon accompanied the general Boycott. As a British "Loyalist" William Jackson was one of the few Boston merchants who openly disregarded the call for Boycott of British made goods. His establishment was among the first to experience the wrath of the of the "Rioters" who sought to punish those businesses run by "Tory" owners. It reads:
"William Jackson - at the Brazen Head next to ye Town House - BOSTON - Importers from London and Bristol, Cloths of all kinds, Linens of all sorts, Callicoes, a great variety of Stuffs, Silks of different kinds, all sorts of Hosiery, with a full and General Assortment of English Piece Goods, Brass Kettles, London Pewter, Nails, Shott Lead, Powder, Steel Frying Pans, w.th a full Assortment of London & Birmingham & Sheffield Hardwares, Windsor Glass, Looking Glasses, Tea, Spices, Starch, Pepper, &c., &c. - NB. Money given at said Store for all kinds of small furs."