More Lonely Hearts Looking for Love on the American Frontier

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Object Matrimony:

The Risky Business of Mail-Order Matchmaking on the Western Frontier

In the Old West, men and women in hopes of finding a companion placed advertisements in publications specifically designed for lonely hearts.  Here are a few of those inspired ads from 1887.

“A few lady correspondents wanted by a bashful man of 36, of fair complexion. 5 feet 5 inches tall, weight 130 pounds. Would prefer a brunette of fair form about five feet, between 18 and 25 years of age. Object, improvement, and if suited matrimony.”

“Wanted to correspond with a young lady matrimonially inclined who would make a young man a good wife: am of good standing and good family, strictly temperate, a professional man and will make a kind husband.”

“I am fond of fun, age 18, height 5 feet 5 inches, weight 140 pounds, have auburn hair, dark eyes; I want a gentleman correspondent from 20 to 25.”

“I am fat, fair, and plan on losing no weight. I’m 48 years old, 5 feet high. Am a No. 1 lady, well fixed with no encumbrances: am in business in city, but want a partner who lives in the West. Want an energetic man that has some means, not under 40 years of age and weight not less than 180. Of good habits. A Christian gentleman preferred.”

To learn more about the serious business of finding a husband or wife by mail in the wide-open days of the Old West read

Object Matrimony:

The Risky Business of Mail-Order Matchmaking on the Western Frontier

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David’s Bridals