Simmons Hardware KEEN KUTTER Letter 1901 St. Louis MO Business Ephemera Steel For Sale

This offering presents an original business letter from the esteemed Simmons Hardware Company, a tangible artifact of early 20th-century commerce. Dated September 19, 1901, the letter showcases the company\'s elaborate letterhead, an emblem of its prominent position in the hardware industry. The letterhead features a detailed illustration of the Simmons Hardware Company building in St. Louis, Missouri, proudly proclaiming \"Built and Owned Entirely by Simmons Hardware Co St Louis U.S.A.\" The iconic \"KEEN KUTTER\" brand is also prominently displayed, a mark synonymous with quality tools and hardware of the era.Addressed to T. S. Jenks in Washington, D.C., the letter delves into a specific business matter, namely a remittance and a dispute concerning freight allowances on stoves and other merchandise. The communication originates from the \"FARES DEPT.\" of the Simmons Hardware Company, as indicated by the signature, offering a glimpse into the company\'s operational structure. The initials \"G.V.C./F.H.J.\" appear at the bottom left, possibly signifying the individuals responsible for drafting or processing the correspondence.The Simmons Hardware Company, based in St. Louis, Missouri (St. Louis County), was a major force in the hardware distribution business, reaching its zenith during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The \"Keen Kutter\" line of tools, known for its quality and durability, became a household name. This letter offers a fascinating insight into the business practices and concerns of such a large enterprise at the turn of the century.The letter, now over a century old, exhibits the expected signs of age. Discoloration and staining are visible, particularly along the left side and top, attesting to its long history. Creases from being folded are present, a common characteristic of documents that were mailed and stored. The back of the letter shows significant browning and discoloration, with fold lines very prominent and some text from the other side bleeding through the paper. Minor tears and damage are visible on the bottom. Despite these imperfections, the text remains legible, allowing one to fully appreciate the content and context of the letter. This historical letter is a valuable item for collectors of business ephemera, those interested in the history of St. Louis, Missouri, or anyone fascinated by the legacy of the Simmons Hardware Company and its \"KEEN KUTTER\" brand.