This preparation was advertised in 1865 in Harper's Weekly (reproduced below). It was the product of the Henderton Hair Curling Co., New York.
"THE WEST INDIAN HAIR CURLER"
Warranted to curl the most straight and stiff hair, on the first application, into short ringlets or waving massive curls. Sent to any address on receipt of $1.oo. Address The Henderton Hair Curling Co., Box 5251, New York Post Office.