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Some of the
most desirable and visually intriguing advertising
overprint flags from the late 19th century are the Hop
Bitters flags. These small paper flags were included
along with sales of bottles of Hop Bitters, a medicinal
concoction touted to be an effective remedy for a range
of maladies and discomforts. Containing alcohol and
botanicals, Bitters have been used since ancient times.
The fantastic overprinted text on this flag is
indicative of the advertising styles of the late 19th
century, featuring a large variety of fonts, text sizes
and styles. As you can see from the writing, the Hop
Bitters concoction could "Cure all Diseases of the
Stomach, Bowels, Blood, Liver, Kindey & Urinary Organs,
as well as Nervousness, Sleeplessness, Female Complaints
& Drunkenness." Pretty powerful stuff! There are
varieties of these, some of which are missing the
fantastic "$1000 IN GOLD!" promise, some of which have
simpler, smaller fonts, come of which are missing the
reverse-printed "A MEDICINE NOT A DRINK". This example
combines the best of the best for an example, including
the "THE GREAT APPETIZER" in the canton, and the
endearing "Keep this for the Children." on the hoist.
Who wouldn't want to keep this happy flag on a stick for
their Children? Who would want to throw away an American
flag? This is an example of great American advertising,
complete with sensational claims and a clear appeal to
American patriotism at the height of the Centennial
period. |
