[ Pratt? ]

[ Broadside ] New discoveries! Important to housekeepers! [caption title] | Washing Made Easy | -by- using | Pratt's Improved | Washing Preparation.

unknown: unknown circa 1850? 17 x 20 cm. Black ink printed on a very light pink (?) paper. Folded for mailing, some edges loss. No printer imprint. A few small paper losses at folds (no loss of meaning). Good. [28079]


We have been unable to determine who Pratt was nor find any other examples of this small broadside. The Library Company of Philadelphia has an advertisement with the same caption title, size, and general topic "Washing made easy by using Hamblin’s improved washing preparation." noted as circa 1850 (their record number 000146845). Perhaps it was offered to customers as a way to sell material at a local pharmacy?

The advertisement contrasts the current washing preparation with "Washing Fluid" which will "injure and rot the clothes." Further, this preparation won't hurt your clothes, is okay for colored clothes, and will work with the finest fabrics.

It includes sections for Directions of Use (4 table spoonfuls [sic] of the Preparation with 1 pint of Soft Soap), Directions for Hard Soap, and Directions for Making.

As if cleaning clothes weren't enough, the advertiser claims the Preparation will be found good for cleaning ceilings, floors, &c. Then oddly, it includes a receipt for making washing preparation. "Take three table spoonsfuls [sic] of Saleratuss, two spoonsful of strong camphor, and two tea spoonsful [sic] of Indigo Water, to one quart of water."

Price: $75.00