New England Brewing Co., Hartford, Connecticut
Manufacturer: Rodwell Sign Co., Buffalo NY
Date of manufacture: Circa 1897-1910
Overall dimensions including frame: 16”w x 25”h x 5”d
NOTE: Very difficult piece to photograph..highly reflective. Left side and bottom show glare and reflections. The white mark directly above the letter "N" and the vertical white line to the left of the hops are reflections. Condition is considered investment-grade.
This sign was designed over 100 years ago to attract attention and it still does today. With shiny gold lettering against a black background, it is worthy of being the centerpiece of any collection. Simply stunning! This type of sign is known as a “corner sign,” based on its convex shape and wooden housing with a notch in the back that would allow it to be mounted on a corner. The condition is outstanding and the wooden corner sign mounting has a wonderful patina. The glass face has reverse paint (black and very center of red) and the backset gold lettering and center hops and logo are attached from the rear, providing depth and a three dimensional appearance. On the bottom of the housing, there is a metal plaque that says “PAT’D June 2, 92, Rodwell Sign Co., Buffalo, N.Y.” “New England Brewing Companies” operated beginning in 1897 and continued until 1922. Based on the brewery operating history, and the style of the sign, the sign is estimated to have been produced between 1897 and 1910.
There is no lifting of the reverse paint, which is extremely rare for this type and vintage of a sign. The wooden housing is original.
In terms of rarity, glass front corner signs from circa 1900 are rare, and one in this condition is extremely rare.