New York City 1877 Clinton H. Smith Shirt Fronts Billhead - 8.5 x 8

This 1877 billhead documents the specialized garment trade that supported late-nineteenth-century menswear, when detachable shirt fronts were essential components of formal dress.

Shirt-front manufacturers occupied a niche within the clothing industry, supplying starched, removable fronts designed to maintain a crisp appearance while extending the life of shirts themselves. These items reflected both practical concerns and social expectations, as clean, well-pressed shirt fronts were closely associated with professionalism, respectability, and urban business culture.

Issued by Clinton H. Smith & Co., manufacturers of shirt fronts, this handwritten billhead records itemized orders and pricing using period accounting practices. The printed header lists the firm’s Broadway address in New York City, situating the business within a major commercial and garment-production corridor. Measuring approximately 8.5 x 8 inches, the billhead shows light age toning, fold lines, and ink wear consistent with nineteenth-century business paper and offers strong research value for collectors of fashion history, menswear ephemera, and American commerce.

The item shown in this listing is the exact billhead the collector will receive. We have tens of thousands of items to choose from. Shipping will always be combined (or refunded) to save you as much money as possible. Please contact us with any questions, or visit our store page for specifics.