THE EPHEMERA OF BUSINESS

It is going to be a balmy 80 degrees today in Madison Wisconsin. In honor of the wonderful weather we have been having the last week enjoy these Sunburst graphic billheads and letterheads.

Finally, snow has landed here in Southern Wisconsin. No more muddy paws. Hurray!! Enjoy some billheads dealing with sleds and skates.

Livery stables were essential businesses in towns prior the combustion engine. They were places to rent a horse or board one. They offered delivery services for customers. A lot of livery owners got involved in the undertaking business as they traditionally moved the caskets. The livery was also a source of hay, grain, coal and wood. The stable attracted men and usually was the scene of nightlife which included gambling, animal fighting and other vices. Add to that the smell and varmin the stable attracted, and while an essential business, the stable wasn’t always welcome in certain parts of town.

I originally had this group of billheads categorized as "banners" but after looking at all of the banner group I realized that there was a distinct difference. I have decided to label these billheads as ribbons. I know, a sideways award ribbon, but a ribbon nonetheless. I will show off the banners - which typically are wavy and lack the circle top of the ribbon. Notice too that all of these examples are very artistic too.

Since I have been cooped up all day here in Wisconsin due to the snow and blizzard conditions, I thought it would be appropriate to show some billheads, one receipt and a bill of lading too - all having an ice theme. Notice several of the billheads show a graphic of an ice wagon. Enjoy!