Information and advertising. They weren't as quick or far reaching as we have today, You have to remember that people used horses and carrages. Cars were few and far between, and the car of that time could only go about 15 mph. it took days to get anything anywere. A sevan dayset might be ordered and not recieved for several months. These were also considered the best of there day, and may have to be made to order.

Phil