Another Forgotten Bookmark sent me on a fun, weird search that went from a 1941 Personal Shower invitation to Spam. Who knew?
This 3" X 3½" Come to My Party invite was found tucked into a donated book. Betty Siberz was hosting this event for Dorothy, on October 17, 1941.
I appreciate the motto of the printer, McKenzie Greetings, Messengers of Sunshine. Isn't that the truth about anything we can attain from a stationers? And who doesn't appreciate "sentiments of correct thought"?
So when googling the hostess, Betty, I found this article in The Des Moines Register, dated December 16, 1940 (page 2). She was named in an extensive list of the many fans of Hormel products.
According to The Hormel Man, "Any valid evidence that you have used Spam or Chili Con Carne will qualify you to express your opinion. We will pay you a brand new $1 bill for your opinion of either product or $2 for your opinion of both." The Hormel Girls (discussed below) wandered the streets of Iowa's Capital approaching people who had to be carrying proof of purchase. This proof included: "the Spam key with metal strip around it; the Hormel Chili label; a full or empty can of either; or an affidavit.
What I found rather incredible is the fact that $1 in 1940 is equivalent, in purchasing power, to about $18.44 in 2020. That's quite a bit of money just to say you like spiced ham. "For 85 Years, Hormel® Chili Products Proud to Call America’s Cupboards Home."
More than cabinet staples, the brands have earned a place in popular culture thanks to iconic advertising campaigns and nostalgic pitchmen. During the 1940s, the team of George Burns and Gracie Allen, along with song and dance troupe, The Hormel Girls, was enlisted to promote these burgeoning brands.
The era of Hormel Girls ended in 1953. There was no denying their effectiveness. In the years that the Girls performed, Hormel’s sales doubled, and SPAM successfully made its transition from food of necessity to classic Americana. Wild stuff.
Hmm, now I have to wonder if Betty Siberz served Chili Con Carne at Dorothy's shower. We will never know.
posted under |
0 comments:
Post a Comment