Today’s collection is a series of produce labels from the “golden age” of lithograph crate labels, 1880 to 1950. In many ways, produce crate labels can be considered a byproduct of the US rail system, as the explosion of cross-country train routes in the late 1800s led to an increased availability of mass-merchandized foods, which in turn birthed the concept of branding produce for consumer appeal. The actual format of the labels is a result of regional variation afforded by the railroads as well: while East coast produce had typically been packed and shipped in barrels, the lack of barrel-friendly hardwoods on the West coast led California and Pacific Northwest growers to use smaller softwood crates to ship their produce instead. This new rectangular container turned out to be a boon for business, allowing for increased packing efficiency on rail cars, fewer damaged goods, and a perfect canvas for artwork.
Issue Twenty Five: Apples and Oranges
Issue Twenty Five: Apples and Oranges
Issue Twenty Five: Apples and Oranges
Today’s collection is a series of produce labels from the “golden age” of lithograph crate labels, 1880 to 1950. In many ways, produce crate labels can be considered a byproduct of the US rail system, as the explosion of cross-country train routes in the late 1800s led to an increased availability of mass-merchandized foods, which in turn birthed the concept of branding produce for consumer appeal. The actual format of the labels is a result of regional variation afforded by the railroads as well: while East coast produce had typically been packed and shipped in barrels, the lack of barrel-friendly hardwoods on the West coast led California and Pacific Northwest growers to use smaller softwood crates to ship their produce instead. This new rectangular container turned out to be a boon for business, allowing for increased packing efficiency on rail cars, fewer damaged goods, and a perfect canvas for artwork.