Smell George Washington

Between “road apples” and different hygiene standards it’s not hard to imagine the less appealing smells from the 18^th century. But do you ever wonder what fragrances were favored?  Number Six by Caswell-Massey is one answer.

Founded in Newport, RI in 1752 by Dr. Hunter, Caswell-Massey continues to sell one of its original fragrances—Number Six. A favorite of George Washington, who gave it as a gift to the Marquis de Lafayette, it’s described as “a mélange of citrus touched with bergamot, orange blossoms, rosemary, narcissus and 27 additional aromatics.” If you can find a sample, you can smell (like) George Washington.