Archive.org has a host of old seed catalogs (from mid-19th to mid-20th Century) available in many formats and on a host of topics. I happened across a few in my Pinterest feed and gone completely down the rabbit hole in this treasure trove of information. Sure some ideas might be out of date, but you never know what you might find when you explore these catalogs. I’ll be sharing more catalogs as I find them in the coming weeks. –Douglas
Historical Seed Catalogs: Catalog, L. Templin Seed Company (1918) – 9 in a series
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Bits of History and F acts.
In the year 1866, the founder of this business, the late Lewis Templin, began, in a small way , the propagation and growing of Fruit Trees, Vines and Plants, on the old farm near Calla, Ohio. A few years later, when we boys grew up, (there were four of us then, and all living today) we began the mail-order Seed and Plant departments. The business grew steadily, because we always furnished the best of everything, at moderate prices, and never allowed a patron to remain dissatisfied, if they reported their trouble to us.
Thus it is that the old patrons who have traded with the house for many years, and kept telling their friends about Templin quality, have made possible the growth and continuance of the business: For a business firm cannot successfully continue for Fifty-two Years unless they deal justly and give satisfaction.
Today the business is still managed by one of the original firm and his son, and it is conducted along the original lines: The same purpose to deal with you justly and liberally ; the same guarantee of satisfaction or money returned; the same careful selection of the very best old, and only worthy new varieties; the same de- termination to have everything true to name. Our fifty-two years of acquired experience in buying and selling are now at our service; they will benefit you by protecting your interests and giving the best of everything.
The above are bits of history of the past, and facts about the present, given space here merely as an introduc- tion to new customers and prospective buyers. To you who this season send in your first order, we guarantee the same square dealing, high grade and quality, and full satisfaction for which this house has always been noted.
You, our regular patrons, need not a word about the quality of our Seeds and Plants, for you have used them. Your orders and words of commendation to your friends have all been, and will always be, greatly appreciated.
M. B. Templin.
J. Lester Templin.
L. Templin Seed Company.
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