Catalogue and Price List of Fireworks, Flags, Balloons, Lanterns: Fourth of July Goods, etc. for 1913
In a letter to his wife Abigail dated July 3, 1776, John Adams wrote that the Declaration of Independence, “...ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.” His foresight would prove to be accurate, with Independence Day becoming a national holiday celebrated annually with parades and fireworks, or “illuminations” as they were known in the late 18th century. This catalog lists the types of fireworks available for sale in the early 20th century. Given the danger inherent to fireworks, their personal use is restricted across much of the country. Municipal shows continue to be a popular July 4th pastime.
Masten & Wells Fireworks Mfg. Co.
Catalogue and Price List of Fireworks, Flags, Balloons, Lanterns: Fourth of July Goods, etc. Boston: Masten & Wells Fireworks Mfg. Co., 1913.
Lehigh University Catalog Record:https://asa.lib.lehigh.edu/asa/Record/00012030703
A version of this text has been digitized and is available through the Hagley Digital Archives