Block Island, Rhode Island, from the Lighthouses series (N119) issued by Duke Sons & Co. to promote Honest Long Cut Tobacco 1889

This small card, “Block Island, Rhode Island, from the Lighthouses series (N119),” was issued by Duke Sons & Co. around 1888 as a promotional item for Honest Long Cut Tobacco. It gives us a glimpse into the marketing strategies of the late 19th century. Tobacco cards like these were originally designed to stiffen cigarette packs, but soon became collectible items that reflected the cultural values of their time. This card, part of a series on lighthouses, presents a romanticized view of American progress and maritime safety. The inclusion of lighthouses suggests a narrative of guidance and protection, subtly linking these qualities to the tobacco brand. But it’s impossible to ignore that this card also speaks to the ethics of consumer culture, reflecting on how products are promoted through idealized images. Consider the emotional weight of these small, mass-produced items and what they tell us about desire, identity, and the cultural landscape of a bygone era.