Godey's Lady's Book
In Philadelphia in 1830, Louis Antoine Godey (1804–1878) commenced the publication of Godey's Lady's Book which he designed specifically to attract the growing audience of American women. The magazine was intended to entertain, inform and educate the women of America. In addition to extensive fashion descriptions and plates, the early issues included biographical sketches, articles about mineralogy, handcrafts, female costume, the dance, equestrienne procedures, health and hygiene, recipes and remedies and the like. Gradually the periodical matured into an important literary magazine containing extensive book reviews and works by Harriet Beecher Stowe and many other celebrated 19th century authors.