- Wayne State University Digital Collections

street railways; cars. horse car . copy. Congress & Baker Streets. arrow points to horse bell

Walter P. Reuther Library, Archives of Labor and Urban Affairs, Wayne State University

Mens Suit, about 1880

This morning suit belonged to Willis C. Ward. He likely used it for a wedding or other special occasion. It is exquisitely made and looks to have been rarely used.Willis C. Ward was born in 1861 to one of Michigan's wealthest families of the 19th century. His father David Ward, made his fortune in lumber and acquired and sold timbered land throughout the United States.

Bonnet, about 1880

Hats made of straw, such as this example, were used seasonally as day wear in the spring and summer.

Earrings, about 1880

The earrings are likely to be gold as it would be unwise to chase plated metal so deeply.These do appear to be chased.Chasing is the process which literally removes metal in order to create decoration as opposed to engraving in which metal is pushed aside as the engraving tool works on the surface.These are somewhat difficult to date and it is unclear if they are American; however, a date of circa 1880 places the pair with other engraved/chased examples popular at this time as seen in New York w…

Watch Fob, about 1890

Fobs are charms that dangle from the end of a gentleman's watch chain and are generally visible outside his waistcoat.Many are just decorative while others, such as this, are useful as seals, mechanical pencils, lockets, etc. The latin on this fob roughtly translates into fine follower or helpful worker, but its exact translation is unknown.It seems plausible that this was a gift to a worker or colleague for work well done.

Cuff Link, about 1900

Boy's Blouse Waist and Breeches, about 1880

According to the source of purchase, this young boy's suit belonged to the Linsley Simpson family of Northford, Connecticut. The piece is notable for its casualness and freedom of movement. It is definitely clothing made for a boy - the shirt remains tucked in, and the pants are not like Dad's. A nice, though still casual, outfit, it appears to be homemade.

Hand Fan with Pierced Ivory Monture, 1875

Folding hand fan with pierced ivory monture and painted scene on front and reverse. This item was owned by Matilda Dodge Wilson (October 19, 1883 – September 19, 1967),who was the wife of John Francis Dodge (October 25, 1864 – January 14, 1920), co-founder of the Dodge Motor Car Company in Detroit, Michigan.

Fan with Ivory Monture, 1875

Folding hand fan with ivory monture, painted figural scene on front and floral swag design on reverse. This item was owned by Matilda Dodge Wilson (October 19, 1883 – September 19, 1967),who was the wife of John Francis Dodge (October 25, 1864 – January 14, 1920), co-founder of the Dodge Motor Car Company in Detroit, Michigan.

Hand Fan with Painted Detail, 1875

Dark folding hand fan with painted detailed, which was owned by Matilda Dodge Wilson (October 19, 1883 – September 19, 1967),who was the wife of John Francis Dodge (October 25, 1864 – January 14, 1920), co-founder of the Dodge Motor Car Company in Detroit, Michigan.