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North Jersey History Center Online Exhibits

A New Lifestyle

The wider availability of residential electricity during the 1920s led to the introduction of new products for the home. Electric washing machines, refrigerators, stoves, vacuum cleaners and other products were marketed as labor-saving devices. Trade journals, county fairs and advertisements promoted changes in expectations of household standards and family dynamics.

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Frigidaire-Everywhere, Morris County Fair

Curtiss Collection, September 21, 1928

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The Co-Operative House Electric Laundry Room, 7/29/1926 

Curtiss Collection

 

Demonstrations of the laundry equipment were provided by representatives of the Electric Household Utilities Corporation, the manufacturer of the Thor ironing machine.