Model Meat Market Lightbulb Sign
Object/Artifact
Beautiful sign for Model Meat Market that predates the advent of neon sign technology. In total, the sign reads "MODEL MEAT MARKET". "MEAT" has individual letter panels that were meant to be interchangeable, a patented sign model created by Federal Electric Co. of Chicago, IL. These main letters each have a number of housings for incandescent lightbulbs. This section is also outlined by an ornate and decorative art-nouveau style border. Other shapes and designs continue to fill out the outer corners of the full sign. On each letter panel, an inscription reads, "Federal Electric Co. Chicago Pat 1 Nov 17 1903".
The Federal Electric Company was established in 1901 in Chicago, IL. They began as a manufacturer of outdoor porcelain enamel and lighted (lightbulb) advertising signs. These signs they came to be known for are typically a rich, cobalt blue and white block letters with electric light bulb outlets throughout the lettering. Federal Electric made signs for many large companies like Standard and Phillip 66, and industries across the country including garages, gas stations, drug, drug stores, pharmacies, grocery stores, and hotels.
2018.0065.0001
Permanent Collection
Porcelain Enamel — Lightbulb-illuminated, Signs/Displays
Signs/Displays
Federal Electric
Nov 17, 1903
1900 - 1909
Chicago
Illinois
Makers Mark
One at the bottom of each of 4 letter panels for "MEAT"
Federal Electric Co Chicago Pat Nov 17 1903
Federal Electric Co.
72 in
38-3/8 in
12-1/2 in
150 lb
Porcelain enamellightbulbPaintMetal
Exhibit
Very Good
