Advertisement for Cigar Maker's Union #97, Boston
patented 1905
Medium
containers
Classification
containers
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of Stephen W. Brener and Carol B. Brener
Accession Number
1978-146-23
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Step into the lively world of early 20th-century American labor with this charming *Advertisement for Cigar Maker Union #97, Boston patented in 1905 by the & Hoag Company. Renowned for pioneering advertising novelties like celluloid buttons and premiums, the firm crafted this item as a promotional container—likely a pocket-sized tin or holder designed to showcase union pride amid Boston's bustling cigar industry. Cigar making was a cornerstone of immigrant labor in cities like Boston, where skilled workers formed strong unions such as Local #97 to advocate for fair wages and safer conditions....