Clarke's Pure Rye Whiskey Advertising Plate c. 1900 Old Codger Pre-Prohibition

Description: C. 1900 hard liquor advertising plate showing the “Old Codger” drinking a shot of whiskey rye. Text includes "Bottled by the Government”, a claim by the government when helping with medicinal needs before prohibition. Hallmarked by Crown Pottery underneath with blue crown with “Warranted” underneath. See historical notes below for background on Clarke's Brothers Distillery and Crown Pottery. Dimensions: 10.5” Diameter x 1” Depth. Unpacked weight: 1 pound, 13 ounces Condition: Good giftable condition, with condition issues commiserate with age and use. Visible crazing and paint loss around dark brown perimeter. Hairlines extending from the rim, paint loss on perimeter, and underside crazing with discoloration are clearly visible in photos. Central image is clear and shows no erosion. Two underside chips as best shown in last two photos. Wire hanger corroded, but structurally ok. Historical Background: The Clarke Brothers Distillery used an unusual advertising strategy showing an elderly and sickly looking man from the early 1900's. He appeared on hand mirrors, plates, tip trays, shot glasses, signs, and the joker in a deck of playing cards. Clarke Bros. Rye soon became a top-selling regional and national brand. They advertised their rye widely as meant for “family and medicinal use” but eventually the company was closed by Prohibition. They also advertised themselves as the “Largest Whiskey Distiller in the World”. From 1837 to 1919, Peoria was the center for distilling and brewery industries. An eclectic group of immigrants, who knew what they were doing, coupled with the needed ingredients to produce alcohol, helped Peoria thrive on innovative fermentation. Peoria was called the “Alcohol Capital of the World.” By 1880, the city was producing 18 million gallons of liquor a year, which was more than Kentucky at 15 million gallons. Between the years 1837 and 1919, there were 24 breweries and 73 distilleries in central Illinois, making it one of the centers for the world’s largest fermentation industry. Key factors were good water, an abundance of corn and barley, and railroad and river transportation to ship barrels or bottles. By the 1880’s the city boasted 22 distilleries and several breweries. It is claimed that during this era Peoria produced more whiskey than any city in history. Clarke’s was one of Peoria’s pioneer distillers, beginning in 1860. The distillery stood on Grove Street, at the foot of Persimmon in Peoria. It produced brands such as Clarke’s Pure Rye, Castle Rock, Checker Board, Elkhorn Gin, Kickapoo Bourbon, Pearl Spirits, and R.D.C. Bourbon. A number of Midwest distillers in 1887 organized under the name of the Distillers and Cattle Feeders’ Trust. Headquartered was in Peoria, it quickly became known as “The Whiskey Trust.” Members, received stock in the trust but surrendered control. All but 12 of 86 members, were shut down, including Clarke Bros. When the Trust fell into financial difficulties, in 1885 Clarke Bros. began distilling again as independent operator. Crown Potteries, originally Crown Pottery Co of Evansville, produced a wide range of pottery products between the years 1902 to 1962. Their first year was also the year they acquired the Peoria Pottery Co. of Peoria, IL and the 2 potteries assumed the name of "Crown Potteries" Clarke Bros Co of Peoria, IL. (1870-1919 as that company). Always happy to pass through discounts on combined shipping. I only charge actual postage, and always use recycled packing materials. Note some photos appear redundant because I take photos from all possible angles. On symmetrical items, these photos may appear redundant when there are no distinguishing differences or condition issues between side views. I gladly accept returns, but please note I do not pay return postage unless there was a significant error in my description. The item listed is being sold as is, as pictured and as described to the best of my knowledge. All dimensions and weights approximate. If you have a question or an assumption on an item prior to purchase, please ask. I much prefer to take the time on the front end to make sure you will be satisfied with your purchase. Remember, when buying vintage expect imperfections as these items have a history and have been in the possession of others. I try to list EVERY flaw which would be commented on something in an antique or vintage condition – this does not mean all imperfections resulting from normal wear & use require comment. My goal is to have no rude surprises upon receipt.

Price: 98.5 USD

Location: Dallas, Texas

End Time: 2023-12-22T01:28:48.000Z

Shipping Cost: 0 USD