In 1860, James Fisk, Jr. was still a young businessman working his way up in the world of trade. This ad was part of his silk-selling era. He was based in Brattleboro, got himself some nice horses, wagons, and tents, and went about selling silks and other goods that he bought through Jordan Marsh in Boston.
Later he teamed up with Jay Gould to become wealthy, powerful crooks. They fought Vanderbilt over control of the Erie railroad, and bought elections with Boss Tweed in NYC. When they were tossed out of the stock exchange for cooking the books, they opened their own exchange across the street. They crashed the markets attempting to corner the gold market.
So, 1860 ladies, won’t you please stop by the Town Hall and help a young man start out on his career in business?
Ad Transcription:
By James Fisk, Jr.,
Auctioneer.
To the Ladies of Brattleboro and vicinity:
Remember and call at the Town Hall Thursday, Friday, and
Saturday, May 31, and June 1st and 2nd, afternoon and
evening
Mammoth Auction.
Sale of Rich Silks, Shawls, and Dress Goods, to close,
consisting of the most magnificent stock of Dry Goods ever
offered in Vermont, and assortment of all the fine fabrics and
novelties in the line of Dry Goods, imported for the trade of
1860. Remember the dates, as we leave here June 4th.
The seats will be expressly reserved for the ladies in the
evening.
