Circa 1930s Ruppert Beer Neon Sign

Auction: 2023 Fall Classic

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Circa 1930s Ruppert Beer Neon Sign

Scarce neon sign, circa 1930s, issued in promotion of Ruppert Beer. This is just the second example of this attractive neon sign we have ever handled. The first, which was in lesser condition, appeared as Lot 1236 in our 2020 Spring Classic, where it realized $8,413. When lit, the sign illuminates the Ruppert name, while the word "Beer" appears along the base. Produced by the Lumin-Art Display Corp. of Brooklyn N.Y./Waterbury Conn., as noted on the label affixed to the reverse. The sign (26.5x6x10.5"), which remains in working order, displays normal wear commensurate with its age and former use, but remains in Excellent condition overall, looking much as it did when it provided a beacon to thirsty customers longing for a cold one. While most people remember Jacob Ruppert Jr. as the longtime owner of the New York Yankees, and the man who brought Babe Ruth to New York, he made his fortune running the family's brewing business, which was founded by his father, Jacob Ruppert Sr., in the 1880s. When Ruppert Sr. died in 1915, the same year that Ruppert Jr. purchased the Yankees, he left an estate worth approximately six million dollars. With Ruppert Jr.'s management of the company, the family's net worth rose to over 120 million dollars at the time of his death in 1939. During Ruppert Jr.'s tenure as president of the company, it reigned as one of the most successful breweries in the country and its beers were among the most popular in the land. In addition to his business duties, Ruppert was also active in both the military and politics. He rose to the rank of Colonel in the New York National Guard and later served in Congress as a member of the United States House of Representatives. Despite his many accomplishments, Ruppert always took great pride in his brewery. In 1932 he was asked by Time magazine if selling beer made him as happy as winning a World Series. He replied “Looking back now, Idoubt if I ever felt more elated than when I was a youngster and on occasionwould go galloping out driving the ambulance to bring in one of our ailingbrewery wagon horses… Those brewery teams were as pretty to see operate as anicely stepping ball team.” After Ruppert Jr.'s death in 1939 the business was mismanaged by his heirs and the brewery closed for good in 1965. Please note: Because of its extremely fragile nature, Lelands will not ship this item. Winning bidders are welcome to pick the item up at our office, or, if that is not possible, they will be responsible for making their own shipping arrangements. Please keep in mind that any out of state buyers who pick up this lot in person will be charged New Jersey sales tax unless they provide a valid out-of-state resale certificate.