Octagon Soap

            While living in old Dymond City, Griffins township, Martin County, about 1883, a Mrs. Elkington invented the world-famous “Octagon Soap.” Gaining her idea from some of the older women in the area, Mrs. Elkington made the soap for herself and a few friends. When she moved to Philadelphia, presumably in the late 1880s or early 1890s, she continued making the special soap for herself and neighbors, the latter finding it a remarkable soap.

Octagon Soap,
 Sales are increasing rapidly because:
First--It is a high grade soap, simply perfect, made from sweet, pure stock unadulterated, sure to please.
Second.--It is well advertised by the immense list of premiums for the old folks, young people, and children.
This soap box was found in an attic. The picture came from Dolly Sarrio's Blog at
hibiscushouse1.blogspot.com

          A Mr. Hanes was attracted by the merits of the soap and reportedly procured a patent, calling it “Octagon” on account of its shape. The formula was said to have been sold to Colgate-Palmolive-Peat. For many years the shape of the soap bar featured the advertisements of the manufacturer who pointed out it was easier to hold that the square shaped bars of “Old Monday,” and other contemporary brands.

[Taken from Martin County History, Volume I, by Francis M. Manning and W. H. Booker: 1977]