The Woman in the Home

Worcester, MA: Royal Worcester Corset Co., 1900. Very good. First edition presumed, n. d. (beginning of the 20th century); 6 x 4 1/4; pp. [2], 3-44, [2]; white pictorial wraps; illustrated with numerous photographs and drawings; a few minor spots to wrap and a tiny nick to upper corner; in about very good condition.The Royal Worcester Corset Company was founded as The Worcester Skirt Company by David Hale Fanning in 1861. The booklet, published as an advertisement for some of the company's most popular products - the Adjusto and the Bon Ton corsets - included practical advice and ideas for all aspects of the lady of the house's life, including bathing ("...do not be afraid of keeping too clean...take three hot baths a week at least..."), beauty and health ("...most people eat too much..."), the guest room ("...select the pleasantest room in your house, with the best exposure, the finest outlook and the best sweep of air for your guest room - then use that for yourself. Dp not reserve the best part of your house for the casual visitor..."), etc.Perhaps, the most interesting feature of the booklet were the photographs within, including a centerfold one featuring a wide-angle shot of over 1700 employees of the company in front of factory and another one of a long, seemingly-endless "stitching room."