Rare 1940s Channel Lemons Label from Santa Barbara County

Step back in time with this extraordinary piece of Americana! Behold a genuine 1940s Channel Lemons Crate Label, a true treasure from the golden age of California's citrus industry. Crafted by the esteemed Goleta Lemon Association in picturesque Santa Barbara County, this label is more than just a pretty picture – it's a window into a bygone era!

Measuring a substantial 12 1/4" x 8 3/4", this vintage gem is in pristine condition, showing little to no wear. It's like discovering a time capsule from the pre-World War II era!

The Channel Brand label, a hallmark of the 1930s, was the brainchild of the Goleta Lemon Association, nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara County. Brought to life by the skilled artisans at Schmidt Litho Co. in Los Angeles, this label is part of an iconic series of lithographic masterpieces that defined Southern California's citrus shipping industry from 1900 to 1940.

Prepare to be mesmerized by the label's stunning oval vignette! Picture majestic seagulls soaring above a stalwart lighthouse, while a ship bravely navigates the Santa Barbara Channel. In the background, lush lemon groves stretch as far as the eye can see. The deep blue backdrop and vibrant yellow text ensured that Channel Brand lemons stood out in bustling rail depots, while the maritime imagery evoked a sense of coastal purity and unparalleled freshness.

But this isn't just any old label – it's a mark of excellence! Channel Brand was reserved for the crème de la crème of citrus: Red Ball-grade lemons. This label signaled to wholesale buyers that they were getting the absolute best that Santa Barbara County had to offer. The bold maritime motifs and high-contrast color scheme made these crates instantly recognizable, cementing Goleta's reputation for premium, sun-kissed citrus as it traveled the Southern Pacific rail lines.

Today, original Channel Brand labels are coveted treasures, carefully preserved in prestigious collections like UC Riverside's Special Collections and the Boston Public Library's Print Department. These aren't just labels – they're works of art that capture the spirit and regional pride of California's citrus boom. Ephemera collectors are scrambling to get their hands on these lithographs, prizing them for their striking design and as tangible links to Goleta's golden era of lemon packing.

Once a common sight in markets across the nation, these crate labels have now become rare and sought-after relics. Their scarcity only adds to their historical significance and allure. The impeccable lithography process used in their creation – involving a stone or metal plate for design – showcases a level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that's simply unmatched today. It's no wonder that museums and art institutions are dedicating entire galleries to these labels, underscoring their growing importance in the art and collectibles market. For serious collectors, this isn't just a want – it's a need!

Imagine this remarkable piece of vintage advertising gracing the walls of your home! Why should it be confined to a museum when it could be bringing a touch of nostalgia and unparalleled elegance to your living space? This Channel Brand label from Santa Barbara County isn't just a decoration – it's a conversation starter, a piece of history, and a statement of your impeccable taste all rolled into one!

Don't miss this chance to own a piece of Santa Barbara County's rich citrus heritage. This Channel Brand label is more than just a pretty picture – it's a portal to a time when lemons were king and the Goleta Lemon Association ruled the roost. Grab this slice of California history before it disappears like the last golden rays of a Santa Barbara sunset!