Research Guides: HIST 344: Colonial North America, 1492-1763 (Becker, Spring 2024): The Problem with Primary Sources

"...at the cheapest Rates..."

Below is an advertisement from Boston, 1749. Break into groups and discuss:

General information

What is being sold?
what do these items, and the language use, say about the colonial relationship in 1749
What do the items have it common?
What do the items tell us about commerce in the Atlantic World?

Historical questions

Joseph and Daniel Waldo (Firm). (1749). Imported from London & sold by wholesale or retail at the cheapest rates by Joseph and Daniel Waldo at the sign of the Elephant opposite to the South east Corner of the Town House in the King Street, Boston, New Eng
Advertising card, 1749, "Imported from London & sold by wholesale or retail at the cheapest rates by Joseph and Daniel Waldo at the sign of the Elephant opposite to the South east Corner of the Town House in the King Street, Boston, New England. ..."

Text is bordered by an ornamental post with a swinging trade sign showing a large elephant ridden by three people, one of whom holds large umbrella. Below sign is a list of about 250 items for sale. Illustration signed J. Turner, sc.

Look at the database entry itself.