Library Company of Philadelphia
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Welcome to the Library Company of Philadelphia's Tumblr page! Founded by Ben Franklin in 1731, we are an independent research library specializing in American history and culture from the 17th through the 19th centuries. This page highlights materials from LCP's extensive collection of rare books, manuscripts, broadsides, ephemera, prints, photographs, and works of art.
“Fair dame, your fishey portrait here you see, / One of the Codfish Aristocra-she”
It’s #FishyFriday! As evidenced in this image, no one was safe from ridicule by 19th century comic valentines. “Cod-fish aristocracy” was a derogatory term for New Englanders whose family wealth originated in maritime businesses.