This rare Trowbridge’s Chocolate Chips sign is from the turn of the 20th century. The sign is made of paper and is currently framed, but was originally intended to use unframed, as a store window sign. This can be seen by the notation in blue letters, in the lower right corner. The sign reads Trowbridge’s Original Chocolate Chips, original flavor, original chip. There is also a blue banner that reads “Name On Every Chip” along with a picture of a woman with chips in hand and a quote that says “Simply Delicious”.
This paper sign has been well preserved over the years. It is mounted under glass with a walnut color frame. The sign has not been examined out of the frame.
HISTORY
Trowbridge’s Chocolate Chips were made by candy maker and restaurant owner William S. Trowbridge. Based in Crawford County, Pennsylvania, Trowbridge began making his Chocolate Chips in the late 1890’s. His chips were actually made of a molasses taffy and covered with a chocolate coating. These are not the chocolate chips we know and use today. Sadly in 1916 his candy factory burned, destroying the building and the candy making machinery. He then decided to open a restaurant which he operated until 1932. (Reference: Smithsonian.com 2017)
PERIOD: 1900’s
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: United States
MATERIALS: Print on paper.
CONDITION: Extremely nice condition considering it is an antique paper advertising sign. There appears to be some paper loss in the top right corner as shown in the photos. The sign has not been removed or examined out of the frame. The wood frame is newer and has a faux burl wood look. It is in good condition but has drilled holes where it was previously mounted to a wall.
FRAME SIZE
HEIGHT: 10.5 in. (27 cm)
LENGTH: 33.5 in. (85 cm)Antique
THICKNESS: .75 in. (2 cm)
