Card Number 189, Gertrude Gardner, from the Actors and Actresses series (N145-2) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Cross Cut Cigarettes 1880s

This is a trade card from the 1880s that was produced by W. Duke, Sons & Co. to promote their "Cross Cut Cigarettes." It features a portrait of the actress Gertrude Gardner, likely taken during her performance on stage. The card is a photographic print on a small card stock and includes the text “Cross-Cut Cigarettes Are the Best” along with a number and the actress’ name. These trade cards are an example of early advertising strategies to promote consumer goods, particularly in the 19th century.