Rare 1950s Mayflower Fruit Association Crate Label Vintage Treasure

Vintage 1950s Mayflower Crate Label made by Mayflower Fruit Association out of Exeter, California.

13"x 4" ~ little to no wear.

The Mayflower Brand crate label from the 1950s is a vivid slice of California's citrus heritage, produced by the Mayflower Fruit Association of Exeter, California. This elongated lithograph features the iconic Mayflower sailing ship cresting stylized waves beneath a radiant sky—an homage to the Pilgrims' voyage and a metaphor for freshness, purity, and pioneering quality. It's not just a label; it's a time capsule of American history and agricultural innovation!

Printed for use on wooden citrus crates packed with juicy oranges and zesty lemons, the label's nautical imagery and bold typography were designed to stand out in bustling wholesale markets and rail depots. Growers and packers relied on such artwork to signal premium fruit to buyers scanning hundreds of boxes at auction. The Mayflower Fruit Association, incorporated in 1924, operated out of 301 North G Street in Exeter and shipped fruit nationwide via Southern Pacific rail lines, spreading California sunshine across the country!

Today, original Mayflower Brand labels are prized by collectors for their clean lines, patriotic symbolism, and mid-century design sensibility. Institutions like the Pfau Library at California State University, San Bernardino, preserve them as part of California's agricultural advertising legacy. Whether framed on a wall or tucked into an archive, the Mayflower label remains a timeless emblem of Exeter's citrus-packing excellence, capturing the essence of a golden era in American agriculture.

Once a common sight, these crate labels have now become treasured relics of a bygone era. Their scarcity, a testament to their historical significance, adds to their allure. The impeccable lithography process used in their creation, which involves a stone or metal plate for design, is a testament to the skilled craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail that went into their making. This process remains unparalleled, adding to the appeal of these labels. The soaring demand for these labels, with museums and art institutions dedicating galleries to them, underscores their growing importance in the art and collectibles market. This makes them a must-have for any serious collector. The rarity of these labels adds a sense of urgency and importance to your purchase – don't miss out on owning a piece of California's vibrant agricultural history!

Picture this remarkable vintage advertising, a unique piece of history, adorning the walls of your home. Instead of being confined to a museum, it can bring a touch of nostalgia and unparalleled elegance to any room in your home, elevating the aesthetic and sophistication of your living space. Imagine the conversations it will spark as guests admire the intricate details of the Mayflower Fruit Association's iconic design!

Crate Labels, a cherished relic of a bygone era, are now a rare find. The impeccable lithography process used in their creation, involving the use of a stone or metal plate to create a design, remains unmatched even today. The demand for these labels is not just rising; it's soaring, and museums and art institutes are dedicating galleries to them. Once the limited supply is sold out and gracing the walls of collectors or galleries, they will be a challenging acquisition. Don't let this opportunity slip through your fingers – own a piece of the Mayflower Fruit Association's legacy today!

Picture this remarkable vintage advertising, a unique piece of history, adorning the walls of your home. Instead of being confined to a museum, it can bring a touch of nostalgia and elegance to any room in your home. Let the Mayflower Brand crate label transport you back to the golden age of California's citrus industry, right in the comfort of your own space!