An Uncommon History of Common Things

September 15, 2009
Patrick ("Forts of the West") and Thompson ("Dakotas") offer a charming look at the genesis and evolution of the items, organizations, and events Americans generally take for granted, such as buttons, state fairs, and toilet paper. Organized into nine chapters, including "Garments" and "Medications," and 50 subcategories like "Underwear" and "Beautification," the descriptive mini-essays run roughly one page. Each is accompanied by a lovely, full-color photograph and, occasionally, an illustrated time line. Witty and enlightening, the book carries all the delights of an American history museum visit, although entries reveal that many contemporary objects and customs were developed on other shores.

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