Miss Helen, from the Actresses series (N203) issued by Wm. S. Kimball & Co. 1889

This small card featuring Miss Helen, was one of many produced by the American cigarette company, William S. Kimball & Co.. These cards existed as promotional items, inserted into cigarette packs as a means of advertising. But they also tell us a lot about society and the power of imagery at the time. The late 19th century saw an explosion in mass media and advertising, creating new ways of manufacturing celebrity. Here, Miss Helen is dressed in harlequin costume, and as a well-known stage actress, she would have been recognisable to consumers. By associating her image with their product, the company was able to promote its brand by association. As historians, we can use these cards to learn not only about advertising and popular culture, but about the social status of women in the entertainment industry. Resources such as theatre archives, newspapers, and census records might help us understand more.