In 1950 America, things were much more simple than today. Television was just coming into its own and college football was probably the major sport outside of professional baseball. Only one game was broadcast east Saturday and the results of all the weekend games dominated the Sunday sports section of newspapers. Back then, kids liked to collect stamps, comic books, model cars & planes, and sports cards distributed by bubble gum companies.
The Hormel Company took a bold leap and decided to add to what kids could collect. In 1953 it contracted to have 5 million felt 4x9 inch pennants produced representing 95 universities and one “joke” pennant (which remains inexplicable today). It sent these pennants with its canned products to grocery stores around the nation. Paper college pennant strings hung from grocery store ceilings calling attention to the Hormel cans wrapped with these order pennants held by a rubber band – honest! To boost sales, these pennants coupled with Hormel products were advertised in newspapers and in comic books.
Percentage wise, very few of these pennants remain today and have a cult following. At Americana Memories, we have collected many of these and have them attractively framed and available for sale for your enjoyment, rekindle old memories and brag about your school. They also make great gifts for friends & family!
Pennant size 4 x 9 inches
Frame size 9 x 14 inches
Most colleges available! Please email with any questions.
Product code: Princeton University felt pennant (Original framed Hormel) 1953 Custom Framed order U/V Glass