Governor Perry, Florida, from "Governors, Arms, Etc." series (N133-1), issued by Duke Sons & Co. 1885 - 1892

This small lithograph of Governor Perry of Florida was created around the turn of the century by W. Duke, Sons & Co. as part of a series which was distributed with tobacco products. The imagery on this promotional card speaks volumes about the cultural and political landscape of the late 19th century. Perry's stern visage is flanked by idealized scenes of Florida – the state's coat of arms and natural landmarks. Yet, these picturesque images mask the realities of the Jim Crow South. The "Honest Long Cut" tobacco slogan subtly reinforces notions of white masculinity and Southern honor so central to the period. Representations of the Ocklawaha River and Old Fort at St. Augustine romanticize the state's history, omitting the violent displacement of indigenous populations and the legacy of slavery. Consider the intended audience of these cards: white, predominantly male consumers. The imagery caters to their desires for an idealized vision of America, while conveniently erasing the complex and often brutal realities of the nation's past and the continuing oppression of people of color. This card invites us to reflect on the power of images to shape collective memory.