Sanford Ink Eraser Tin

Sanford's Ink Eraser, c. 1900-1910

We recently came across this vintage tin of Sanford's Ink Eraser and couldn't pass up the opportunity to share some photos. It dates to 1900-1910, and was one of the first products marketed to remove ink.

Sanford's Ink Eraser, c. 1900-1910

The bottle lids were numbered 1 and 2. The bottles themselves were imprinted with First and Second, and molded so as to only fit in the tin in the correct order. Directions on the tin:

For Paper - First apply No. 1, rubbing gently until the ink has softened, then blot off and apply No. 2 until the ink has disappeared, then apply No. 1 again until the two fluids are neutralized and dry with a blotter. 

For Clothing - Use equal parts of Nos. 1 and 2 and absorb with a clean, damp sponge.

Stanford's Ink Eraser, c. 1900-1910

Here's an advertisement for them from the February 24, 1900 issue of The American Stationer. You can read more about Sanford on the Made in Chicago Museum website.

Advertisement for Stanford's Ink Eraser in The American Stationer, February 24, 1900.