For a fascinating look at how advertising has shaped our society, check out this incredible resource: the John W. Hartman Center for Sales, Advertising & Marketing History (part of Duke University’s Rare Book, Manuscript and Special Collections Library). You can find:
- info on the early history of advertising in the U.S.
- “Medicine & Madison Avenue” – a special collection of health-related advertising, and
- archives from the Outdoor Advertising Association of America
Center holdings include papers from Madison Avenue ad executives that document advertising campaigns with insight into the creative process, target audience, and media selection.
Take a journey back in time to view 19th & 20th century advertising … it’s bound to be a fun trip!