Carolina Parrot, from the Birds of America series (N37) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1888

This is "Carolina Parrot" from the Birds of America series by Allen & Ginter Cigarettes. These cards, dating from the late 19th century, were included in cigarette packs as collectibles. The image depicts a Carolina Parrot, a bird that was native to the eastern United States but tragically driven to extinction by the early 20th century. The card's existence and the parrot's extinction speak volumes about a period of environmental exploitation. Allen & Ginter, like many businesses of the time, were profiting from the natural resources of this land. It's impossible to ignore how the imagery flattens a species into a decorative commodity. The company's slogan, "Richmond Straight Cut no. 1 Cigarettes are the Best," underscores the economic imperatives that often override environmental concerns.