Phoenix Lager Philosopher Calendar
Context
Due to a fire in 1896, the West Bay Brewing Company was forced to close and rebuild; when they reopened in 1898, they adopted the fitting name of Phoenix Brewing Company. The Phoenix Brewing Company remained open until 1952, only seizing beer production during Prohibition, throughout which they shifted production to non-alcoholic products, including malt syrup, malt extract, and soda pop. This calendar, produced in 1949, for the year 1950, advertising Phoenix Lager Beer, features the famous Henry Major character, The Gay Philosopher. This scene is titled The End to a Perfect Day. The Gay Philosopher was a highly popular choice for advertisements in the mid-20th century, and other renditions of this character can be found in breweriana advertising from Phoenix Brewing Company, as well as other breweries. This piece was a particular favorite of collection donor Herb Haydock, as The Gay Philosophers end to a perfect day reminded him of his own gratifying retirement.Collection
The Haydock CollectionCategory
Phoenix Lager Beer
Phoenix Brewing Company, Bay City, MI