Made with green, orange and white porcelain.
Manufactured by Federal Brilliant Neon Sign Company St. Louis Missouri
Based on the Federal Brilliant logo in the corner of the sign, the date of manufacture is around 1939.
We used 6500 Snow White neon tubing on this sign. Originally this sign would have had some other color of neon. Putting red neon on this sign made the porcelain appear brown and the orange disappeared. After testing several colors, the 6500 white really made the green and orange porcelain stand out.
The History of Budweiser
Origins and Early Years
Budweiser, one of the world's most iconic beers, has its origins in the mid-19th century. The brand was founded by Adolphus Busch, a German immigrant who came to the United States in 1857. In 1864, Busch married Lilly Anheuser, whose father, Eberhard Anheuser, owned a struggling brewery in St. Louis, Missouri. Busch joined the brewery business and later became a partner, eventually taking control after Eberhard Anheuser's death. The brewery was renamed Anheuser-Busch.
Introduction of Budweiser
In 1876, Adolphus Busch introduced Budweiser, a lager inspired by the beers of Bohemia, particularly the town of České Budějovice (known as Budweis in German). This region was famous for its brewing tradition, and Busch aimed to create a beer that would appeal to a broad American audience. He implemented new brewing techniques, including pasteurization, which helped extend the beer's shelf life and allowed it to be shipped across the country.
Expansion and Innovations
Anheuser-Busch was a pioneer in several areas that contributed to Budweiser's success. In the late 19th century, the company began using refrigerated railcars and icehouses, which enabled the nationwide distribution of their beer. They also invested heavily in advertising, becoming one of the first breweries to establish a national brand.
Budweiser's marketing campaigns, including the famous "King of Beers" slogan and the iconic Clydesdale horses, helped solidify its place in American culture. By the early 20th century, Budweiser had become one of the best-selling beers in the United States.
Prohibition and Survival
The Prohibition era (1920-1933) posed a significant challenge for Anheuser-Busch. The company adapted by producing non-alcoholic beverages, including soft drinks and a near-beer product called Bevo. Despite these efforts, the company faced financial difficulties, but it managed to survive and resumed full beer production after Prohibition was repealed.
Post-War Growth
Following World War II, Budweiser experienced tremendous growth. The brand capitalized on America's post-war economic boom and increasing consumerism. Anheuser-Busch expanded its brewing facilities and continued to innovate with marketing strategies. By the 1950s, Budweiser had established itself as America's best-selling beer, a position it would hold for decades.
Global Expansion
In the latter half of the 20th century, Anheuser-Busch expanded its reach internationally. The company opened breweries in various countries and marketed Budweiser as a premium American beer. The global expansion strategy aimed to tap into the growing international beer market and cater to the increasing demand for American brands abroad.
21st Century and InBev Merger
The early 2000s brought new challenges and opportunities for Budweiser. The beer industry saw increased competition from craft breweries and changing consumer preferences. In 2008, Anheuser-Busch was acquired by Belgian-Brazilian brewing company InBev, forming Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB InBev), the world's largest brewer. This merger allowed Budweiser to leverage InBev's global distribution network and resources.
Recent Developments
In recent years, Budweiser has continued to evolve. The brand has focused on sustainability, with initiatives to reduce water usage and carbon emissions in its brewing process. Marketing efforts have also adapted to the digital age, with significant investments in social media and digital advertising.
Budweiser has also expanded its product line to include variations such as Bud Light, Budweiser Select, and Budweiser Black Crown, catering to different tastes and preferences. Despite facing stiff competition from craft beers and other global brands, Budweiser remains a dominant player in the beer industry, known for its rich history and enduring appeal.
Conclusion
From its humble beginnings in St. Louis to its status as a global icon, Budweiser's history is a testament to innovation, resilience, and strategic marketing. Its journey reflects broader trends in the brewing industry and American consumer culture, making Budweiser not just a beer but a symbol of American entrepreneurship and tradition.