Finding love has never been easy. As early as the 1890s, people were using the papers’ classified section to place matrimonial ads, which were essentially want ads for a spouse.
The first ad I came across is from 1909. This fellow seems heartfelt, if not grammatically inclined.
This 1905 Babu Matrimonial Advertisement introduces us to a gentleman of 36 who is a self-described “independent, beautiful young widower… very rich family.” As if this wasn’t enough to start an all-out war for his affections, our hero (whom we’ll call Catfish) subtly mentions he still has his late wife’s jewelry.
Hold on to your heart, ladies!
old spirituals 