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.
“No blueing required when this soap is used”
This circa 1880 elephant-shaped trade card for Kirk’s Blue India Soap claims “no blueing required when this soap is used”. Blueing (or, bluing) is the process of adding trace amounts of blue dye while laundering white fabrics. As white fabric tends to yellow over time, the blue dye counters the yellowing to create the illusion of a brighter white. White fabric is often blued during its manufacturing process.