Kite Time, "Great Scott! But she's a pullin!!" from the Terrors of America set (N136) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Honest Long Cut Tobacco 1888 - 1889

This lithograph, “Kite Time,” was printed by W. Duke, Sons & Co. as a promotional card for Honest Long Cut Tobacco. Issued in America around 1888, these cards were collected and traded, offering insight into the social and cultural values of the time. The image depicts a boy enjoying the simple pleasure of flying a kite. It offers us a glimpse into the leisure activities considered appropriate for children. The slightly outdated slang, "Great Scott! But she's a pullin!!," hints at the language and expressions popular during that era. Tobacco cards like this existed within a complex economic structure where advertising and consumer culture were emerging forces. The imagery and language used were carefully crafted to appeal to a specific demographic, often reinforcing prevailing social norms. Understanding the historical context and the social dynamics of the late 19th century requires exploring period advertisements, newspapers, and social commentaries, allowing us to decode the values and beliefs embedded in this seemingly innocent image.