Purses Made of Metal?

In the midst of our archives are numerous Whiting and Davis "Mesh Bags" (evening purses made of metal mesh). Two of the bags pictured are Whiting and Davis soldered mesh bags. The bag in the middle is an enameled mesh bag.

While doing a bit of online research of these items we learned that Whiting and Davis was established in 1896 when Charles Whiting and Edward P. Davis bought out the Wade Davis Company. They began production of their famous metal mesh bags and changed the name of the company. In 1907 Whiting bought out Davis's interest in the company but kept the company’s original name. The Whiting & Davis application for trademark indicates they make "Metal Mesh Bags, comprised Wholly or in part of metal that is not precious, in All sizes and forms, both soldered and woven mesh." They give July 29, 1921 as the first use of their logo. The trademark was renewed 3 times, most recently in 1983. The cancellation of the trademark is dated June 21, 2003." (1)

The purses in this picture are most likely from the 1920's or 1930's. (2)

The Whiting and Davis Company still exists, producing some mesh items for fashion and home decor, such as draping mesh curtains. They also have an industrial line that produces metal mesh clothing, including protective gloves for meat cutters. For more information you can find their fascinating website at http://www.whitinganddavis.com.

(1) (Source: http://www.bagladyemporium.com)
(2) (Source: http://www.ebay.com)

*Post prepared by WCHC Volunteer Lynn Wineland.