Solon Palmer Perfumes

Solon Palmer: A Legacy in Fragrance and Toiletries

Solon Palmer, an influential figure in the world of perfumery and toiletries, established his company in 1847 in Cincinnati, Ohio. As a perfumer and chemist, Palmer's venture quickly became known for its high-quality products. His early offerings included Palmer's Invisible, a ladies’ face powder, and a selection of handkerchief extracts and toilet soaps. These initial products set the stage for Palmer’s subsequent success, helping to build a strong foundation for his business.

In 1870, Palmer expanded his operations by opening a branch in New York City at 12 Platt Street. This move was a strategic step to tap into the vibrant and growing market of New York. Shortly after, he relocated the branch to 372, 374, and 376 Pearl Street, reflecting the company's growth and increasing prominence. Palmer's presence in New York enabled him to reach a broader audience and enhance the brand's reputation on a larger scale.

By 1892, the company was under the leadership of Solon Palmer's son, Eddy Palmer. Eddy’s management marked a new phase for the business, continuing its growth and innovation. Eventually, the company came under the stewardship of Solon M. Palmer, ensuring that the family's legacy in the perfumery and toiletry industry continued. The Palmer family maintained the business until 1947, a testament to their enduring influence and the company’s resilience through changing times.

Throughout its history, Solon Palmer’s company expanded its product range significantly. From its early focus on face powders, handkerchief extracts, and soaps, the line broadened to include powders, sachet powders, rouges, lotions, cold creams, tissue creams, perfumes, brilliantine, and lipsticks. This diversification reflected the company’s adaptability and its ability to cater to evolving consumer needs and preferences.

The design of Palmer's perfume bottles also evolved over time. Early cologne bottles were distinguished by their beautiful deep emerald green or rich teal hues and typically featured a lay-down style. These bottles were not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing, enhancing the product’s appeal. As the years progressed, the design shifted to clear or light aqua glass bottles with cylindrical or hourglass shapes. These later bottles represented a more modern approach while maintaining the elegance associated with the Palmer brand.

In summary, Solon Palmer’s company played a significant role in the perfume and toiletry industry from its establishment in 1847 until its closure in 1947. Through its innovative products and evolving designs, Palmer’s legacy is marked by a commitment to quality and a keen understanding of market trends.

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In 1851, an advertisement reads:

"Solon Palmer - Perfumer & Chemist and wholesale & retail dealer in every description of perfumery, fine soaps, combs, brushes and toilet articles in general. Also Western Agent for Bazin's (late Roussel's) Perfumery."

Solon Palmer's Legacy and Promotions

In 1886, Solon Palmer utilized a unique promotional strategy by including an advertisement giveaway booklet on square dancing. This innovative approach not only showcased Palmer's creativity in marketing but also reinforced his status as a leading figure in the American perfumery industry. The booklet highlighted Palmer's claim of being "the leading perfumer in America, established in 1847," underscoring his long-standing reputation and commitment to quality. The advertisement also listed an impressive selection of 45 handkerchief perfumes, demonstrating the breadth of Palmer's product offerings and his dedication to catering to a diverse range of customer preferences.

The endorsement of Solon Palmer's products by renowned soprano opera singer Adelina Patti further cemented his reputation in the late 19th century. On April 12th, 1884, Patti's endorsement appeared on the back of a trade card from New York, stating, "I unhesitantly pronounce your Perfumery Toilet Soaps and other toilet articles superior to any I ever used." Patti's acclaim, given her status as a world-famous performer, served as a powerful testament to the quality and appeal of Palmer's products. Her endorsement not only validated the excellence of Palmer's offerings but also added a prestigious touch to the brand's image.

From 1885 to the 1920s, Solon Palmer's company produced a remarkable array of over 100 perfumes, reflecting the brand's innovation and adaptability in a rapidly evolving market. Although the list of perfumes available from that era is extensive, it is likely that there are additional fragrances yet to be discovered. The perfumes are listed based on advertisements from the era, with some items noted as having "circa dates" where exact launch years could not be determined. For those exploring the history of Solon Palmer’s fragrances, tax stamps found on bottles can serve as valuable indicators of their age, offering additional clues about the product’s timeline.

The meticulous documentation of Solon Palmer's perfume offerings and promotional strategies highlights his influential role in the fragrance industry. Through innovative marketing, prestigious endorsements, and a diverse range of products, Palmer’s legacy continues to be recognized for its impact on American perfumery.

Solon Palmer: An Obituary and Legacy:

Solon Palmer

In the Annual Meeting of the Manufacturing Perfumers' Association of 1903, Volume 9, Solon Palmer is remembered as a pioneering figure in the American perfumery industry. Born on February 3, 1823, in Alstead, New Hampshire, Palmer's early years were marked by a commitment to education and a burgeoning interest in science. At just sixteen, he began teaching in his local school, demonstrating an early dedication to his community and education. His move to Ohio introduced him to a broader teaching career, and it was during this period that his interest in chemistry began to take shape.

Palmer's journey towards perfumery began with a shift from medicine to chemistry. Initially intending to become a physician, he embarked on medical studies in Cincinnati, a journey that involved a canal trip across Pennsylvania and a descent down the Ohio River. However, his scientific inclinations soon led him away from medicine and into the realm of perfumery. In 1847, Palmer established his own perfume manufacturing business in Cincinnati, leveraging his scientific background to create high-quality products. His cautious approach and commitment to excellence quickly led to a profitable business, setting the stage for his future success.

In 1870, Palmer expanded his operations to New York City, initially setting up at 12 Piatt Street and later relocating to 374 and 376 Pearl Street. This move marked a significant phase in his career, as he transitioned to large-scale perfume manufacturing. By the time of his death on January 19, 1903, Palmer was recognized as the oldest active perfumer in the United States and a revered figure in the industry. Despite his pivotal role, he was not widely known personally within the trade, preferring not to attend trade meetings and instead focusing on his business.

Palmer's impact extended beyond his professional achievements. He was a dedicated Universalist, actively involved in church affairs, including his tenure as President of the Board of Trustees at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Jersey City. After moving to New York, he joined the Church of the Eternal Hope, where he continued his charitable work and commitment to his faith. Palmer was known for his integrity, generosity, and dedication to his business and community, qualities that earned him respect and admiration.

His legacy is marked by a career of significant contributions to the American perfumery industry and a life devoted to his principles and community. Solon Palmer's death left behind a lasting impact, with his business being carried on by his son, Eddy Palmer, and his family. His achievements and values exemplify a career marked by success achieved with honor and integrity, reflecting the high standards he set both in his profession and personal life.

The perfumes of Solon Palmer:

• 1868 Fashion
• 1868 Frangipani
• 1868 Garland of Roses
• 1868 Garland of Violets
• 1868 Lilac Sweets
• 1868 Marvel of Peru
• 1868 May Bloom
• 1868 Rob Roy
• 1868 Violet Bloom
• 1878 India Bouquet, reintroduced in 1892
• 1879 Frangipanni 
• 1879 White Lilac
• 1879 White Rose
• 1880 Florida Water
• 1880 Tiffany Studios Tantalus
• 1880 Victoria
• 1884 Golden Lily of Japan
• 1884 Bouquet de Caroline
• 1884 Darling  Kisses
• 1884 Floralina
• 1884 Jasmine
• 1884 Magnolia
• 1884 Mille Fleurs
• 1884 Moss Rose
• 1884 Mousseline
• 1884 Night Blooming Cereus
• 1884 Pink
• 1884 Rose
• 1884 Rose Geranium
• 1884 Solon Palmer's Fountain of Perfume
• 1884 Spring Flowers
• 1884 Stephanotis
• 1884 Sweet Brier
• 1884 Sweet Clover
• 1884 Sweet Pea
• 1884 Tea Rose
• 1884 Tuberose
• 1884 Upper Ten
• 1884 Verbena
• 1884 West End
• 1884 White Pond Lily
• 1885 Chautauqua Bouquet
• 1890 Locust Sweets
• 1892 Baby Ruth
• 1893 Carnation Pink
• 1893 Cordelia
• 1893 Crab Apple Blossom
• 1893 Heliotrope
• 1893 Ihlang Ihlang
• 1893 India Bouquet 
• 1893 Jockey Club
• 1893 Lilac Sweets 
• 1893 May Bloom 
• 1893 New Mown Hay
• 1893 White Heliotrope
• 1894 Our Jack
• 1898 Dewey Bouquet
• 1900 Apple Leaves
• 1900 Ariston
• 1900 Bay Rum Perfume
• 1900 Cyrano
• 1900 Red Clover
• 1900 Rose Leaves
• 1900 Violet Leaves
• 1903 Baby Ruth 
• 1903 Chautauqua Bouquet Garland (as applied to Perfumes Soaps and Toilet Articles)
• 1903 Gem Violet 
• 1903 Our Jack Palmer's Prefixed to Perfumes 
• 1903 Red Clover 
• 1903 Rob Roy 
• 1903 Rose Leaves 
• 1903 Violet Bloom 
• 1903 Violet Leaves 
• 1904 American Carnation Pink
• 1904 Lily of the Valley
• 1904 Palmer's Bay Rum Perfume
• 1904 Wistaria
• 1906 Rose Girl
• 1906 Violet Girl
• 1907 Alberta
• 1908 Alpine Bouquet
• 1908 Curio
• 1908 Natural Perfumes Line
• 1910 Echo
• 1910 Gem
• 1910 Lily of the Valley
• 1910 Narcissus
• 1910 Orange Blossom
• 1910 Sweet Peas
• 1910 Wisteria
• 1913 Gardenglo Line (a floral perfume)
• 1920 Honeysuckle
• 1920 Musk
• 1920 Orange Flower
• 1920 Orchidlily (an aldehydic perfume)
• 1920 Patchouly
• 1920 Pinkfleur
• 1920 Sandalwood de Oriente
• 1920 White Heliotrope
• 1922 Arbutus
• 1922 Egyptian Lotus
• 1922 Gem Rose
• 1922 Rosefleur
• 1922 Viofleur
• 1922 Violet Bloom
• 1923 Glenecho
• 1925 Narcisfleur
• 1926 Brocade, reintroduced in 1939 (a spicy floral perfume)
• 1926 American Memories
• 1928 Fiesta (an oriental perfume)
• 1929 Black Tulip
• 1929 Desert Primrose
• 1929 Gold Leaf
• 1930 Gene Palmer
• 1933 Gardenia
• 1934 White Rose
• 1939 Dress Parade (an aldehydic perfume)
• 1940 Inaugural Ball
• 1942 Queen Victoria
• 1945 English Lavender
• 1946 Solon Palmer
• 1947 Eau de Cologne
• 1947 Centennial Bouquet
• Hills Devon Gardens

Perfume Facts: Notable Fragrances and Their Histories

The perfume Frangipanni was celebrated for its exceptional quality and elegance. This fragrance earned a reputation for being "a perfume of rare excellence" and was famously favored by Swedish opera singer Jenny Lind. Known for her powerful and ethereal voice, Lind's endorsement added a layer of prestige to Frangipanni, highlighting its refined and distinguished nature. This connection with a renowned figure underscores the perfume’s luxurious and esteemed reputation.

Rob Roy was crafted to embody "a combination of sweetness and strength," a tribute to the legendary Scottish hero of the same name. The fragrance aimed to capture the heroic spirit and rich character of Rob Roy MacGregor, blending both robust and delicate elements to reflect the dual nature of the historical figure. The result was a perfume that balanced powerful and subtle notes, resonating with the heroic legacy it was meant to honor.

Our Jack was inspired by the Jack Rose, named in part after J. M. Jacqueminot, a French nobleman and general from the early 19th century. The Jack Rose, with its deep pink to almost red hue, provided the basis for this perfume, which was advertised as "sweeter than the rose." The fragrance sought to encapsulate the natural beauty and richness of the Jack Rose, offering a scent that was both sweet and evocative of the flower's striking color.

Violet Bloom was a true expression of violet fragrance, capturing the essence of this delicate flower with authenticity. Similarly, Lilac Sweets was designed to deliver the perfect lilac scent, embodying the fresh and floral notes of lilac blossoms. Both perfumes were crafted to provide a genuine representation of their respective flowers, appealing to those who desired an accurate olfactory experience of these beloved blooms.

During World War II, patriotism played a significant role in the marketing of perfumes and beauty products. In 1939, Solon Palmer's Dress Parade perfume was marketed as "The Perfume of Victory," reflecting a sense of national pride and resilience. This strategic use of patriotic themes not only aligned with the wartime spirit but also helped to boost the morale of consumers, associating the fragrance with a sense of triumph and national unity.