In the election of 1840, many women publicly backed the Whig Party ticket of Harrison and John Tyler over Democratic President Martin Van Buren. (Library of Congress) Women did more than wave hankies.

Traders peddled goods reminiscent of 1840s life, such as pelts, beads, leather clothing, black-powder rifles and muskets, knives and fried bread. Merne Wilson, of Noti, brought all-natural soaps.