On page 81 of Hopper’s diary, he recalls the life of Sarah Osborne, who is said to have left New York to learn the “Parasol” business in Boston in 1846. What, exactly, are parasols?

According to historian Geri Walton, a parasol is a species of umbrella. Whereas umbrellas specialize in rain protection, parasols shield one from the sun---sort of like a portable beach umbrella. Indeed, the word parasol directly translates to “for sun” in Spanish.

Throughout the 19th century, parasols were a hot commodity, largely because sunscreen hadn’t yet been invented. Women especially wielded parasols to maintain a “creamy, spot-free complexion.” Different attitudes and events, however, called for different parasols. For instance, flowery afternoon strolls permitted more flamboyant colors. Periods of half-mourning enjoined shades of gray, and full-mourning required black.

Walton cites an 1850 Punch article commenting on the regnant display of parasols, which states that “every lady who enters an omnibus is sure to bring in a parasol with her,” and that “I have not yet seen the phenomenon of a lady invading an omnibus without her being duly armed with a parasol!”

Don’t let this fool you, however: parasols were a serious matter. Due to their expense and razzmatazz, it was popular in the 19th century for gentlemen to gift them to their ladies of choice as part of the courting process. It was considered improper for men to give, or for women to receive, parasols unless the romantic intentions were serious.

Parasols went extinct around the 1920’s when tan supplanted fair as the desirable complexion, as khaki skin evinced one’s ability to vacation in exotic places. With a little effort and bravery, however, I trust they can be got from the attic and brought back into the spotlight where they belong.

Sources:

https://www.geriwalton.com/parasol-fashions/

Punch, 1850, Volumes 18-19, p. 110.

https://blog.modcloth.com/fashion/vintage/would-you-party-with-a-parasol/