Paper from Wood Pulp
1883
The American Civil War (1861-1865) had a tremendous impact on the papermaking industry. Papermakers were already considering the use of pulp sources that would be less expensive than cotton, but during the Civil War period this became vital. The papermills were located in the north but cotton was grown in the south. It was no longer easy for papermakers to obtain the cotton they needed. In addition to the scarcity of cotton rags, the Civil War brought on an increased demand for news. The American public became insatiable consumers of news, requiring a steady supply of cheap paper. Papermakers turned to wood pulp as an alternative source. Paper made from wood pulp was very inexpensive, but it is not durable. This one hundred year old magazine will crumble into pieces when handled.

Illustration from:
The title page of The American Architect and Building News, volume XIII, January-June, 1883.