Since 1912, Hosmer Mountain Bottling Co. of Willimantic, CT, has been in the hands of just four families. The bottling methods have remained much the same. 12oz or 24oz bottles are filled with the over 30 flavors. Its old fashioned American stuff really, the kind of soda you’d expect to be offered by an older chap quite set in his ways. That’s how I was introduced to Hosmer Mountain; after a day of water skiing in Columbia, CT, by my friend’s grandfather. He’d drunk Hosmer since he was a boy, and the local soda provided the perfect refreshment. Since then I’ve tried a few types of sodas, happy enough each time.

Hosmer, after all, is proud to mention that they make either the 4th or 14th best root beer in the land (depending on the poll). Good old fashioned honesty is just part of making good old fashioned soda.

Made mention of this exquisite jerky in a previous post on Washington State University Creamery. Texas A&M has been producing jerky since the 1980s. It is a product of the Rosenthal Meat Science & Technology Center. Smarter jerky you may not find anywhere else.

They use lean round, which is then cut to strips and brined for several days. Once this step is complete the meat is seasoned and smoked over hickory before drying. The result is delicious.

Some of America’s best foodstuffs come from its fine state colleges. Of note is the beef jerk and American Kobe beef from Texas A&M. Several schools also produce superb ice cream. Washington State University is notable for two things – the cheese from its creamery and the packaging of said cheese. Obvious from the above image, cheeses like Cougar Gold come in a can. In a can? Yes.

Initially, this choice generated much speculation. Given the typical nature of canned cheese (think the steaming glop of orange at many of my local Philadelphia eateries), I was extraordinarily surprised by the quality. Washington State University has been canning cheese since the 1930s. Their belief stands that it is a great way to ensure that the cheese will not be contaminated. Cans contain 30 ounces of cheese at the cost of $18.

You may have noticed some new faces that have been added to Selectism’s roster of Columnists. I wanted to take a moment and formally welcome Kiya, Simon, and Theo to our establishment.

Many will know Kiya Babzani as the owner of SF’s Self Edge denim shop, but the man has much more up his sleeve. When he is not opening new retail in New York, he is focusing on his yoyo/toy company Anti-Yo and obsessing about bowling.

Simon Beckerman (above left) is publisher and editor in chief of PIG Magazine and partner with his brother Daniel in Super Sunglasses. He lives and works in Milan, Italy. I have spent many a tradeshow with this gentleman and his crew of Italo killers.

Finally, Theodore Rosendorf (above right) is the author and designer of “The Typographic Desk Reference” and a full time design consultant in the USA. Theo’s also a great writer so be sure to stick with him.

I’d also like to thank a moment to thank the Columnists that have been with us since day one. Brandon, Mr. Gervino, Chris, Steven, Tim, Beau, Ben, Kyle, and all the others have kept Selectism fresh. Many thanks to you all.

Located at 22 East Washington Street, Red’s Classic Barber Shop in Indianapolis has been in operation since February, 2007. The place’s feel, however, evokes an earlier time. Dark woods, dixie jazz, and straight razor shaves are a speciality. Red’s is one of those rare spots where men’s grooming is given correct direction. Stocked with a beautiful array of hats and shaving product, the Barber Shop is a favorite of local politicians (including the State’s Governor) and the odd Colt.

At $19 for a haircut, the Red’s experience is worth twice it’s weight in gold. A special thanks to Mr. William Hogg for shifting his schedule this morning.

Interior images after the jump.

Our homies at Cool Hunting get a nice exclusive on some of the wears to expect on the folks “caring” for you over at the new Ace Hotel in New York.

Beyond offering affordable comfort and style, Ace Hotels distinguish themselves by integrating into the culture of their home city. Our recent visit to the Ace NYC proved no different—the property embraces a deep history of art, music and design that speaks to New York originality. The Ace perspective on NYC style even shows up in their staff uniforms, compiled from iconic New York staples and thoughtful designer collaborations.

A few more views of the Ace Hotel New York Uniforms after the jump.

The AP reports in with word that a rare, unknown copy of the Declaration of Independence has been discovered in the United Kingdom.

British researchers have announced the discovery of a rare original copy of America’s Declaration of Independence — just in time for the Fourth of July.

Katrina McClintock, a spokeswoman at the National Archives, said Thursday that a researcher accidentally discovered the “Dunlap print,” named after a printer, several months ago. The find was announced only after it could be properly catalogued.

Edward Hampshire, the National Archives’ specialist in colonial materials, said the find was “incredibly exciting.”

“It is likely that only around 200 of these were ever printed, so uncovering a new one nearly 250 years later is extremely rare, especially one in such good condition,” he said.

Happy 4th of July to all celebrating…

We’re getting there people. You know, that point where just about everything from a simple bandage can be converted into a work of luxury… in someone’s eyes. Amrom Experimental has issues some “Donor Skin” bandages of the “band-aid” variety, and I happen to like them. I doubt I would prefer them over the one use Band-Aid variant I would pick up at my local apothecary, but they’re interesting enough to get some reaction out of the crew. They’re 18$US. Short money for good look. (r29)

Another look at the Amron Exptl. Leather Bandages after the jump.

A uniquely American spirit, Root has a history dating back to the 1700s. “Root Tea” was an herbal remedy passed to English settlers by the Native Americans. During the temperance movement the alcohol was removed from “Root Tea,” and Root Beer was born. Until this year, the original formula has been dormant, only now resurrected by Art in the Age (and the folks behind Sailor Jerry Rum and Hendricks Gin). They’ve recreated “Root Tea,” as a certified organic 80 proof liquor. Enjoy alone or as a mixed drink.