Name/Title
5 Waseca Bottling Co. BottlesEntry/Object ID
2026.37.1Description
5 Bottles from the Waseca Bottling Co. of different eras, shapes, and designs. (a,b,c) Waseca Quality Beverages (d) Refresh with Waseca Quality Beverages (e) ACO Bottling Works. Bottles a,b,c, and d are printed with graphics on back in white, reading "Vacation in Waseca, Waseca Bottling Co, Waseca Minn." and have images of various activities for visitors. Bottle e is the only ACO bottle and is embossed, not painted.Context
The Waseca Bottling Company (also known through various eras as Waseca Bottling Works and later Waseca Beverages) was a staple of local manufacturing in Waseca, Minnesota, operating primarily from the late 19th century through the mid-20th century.
The company traces its roots back to the late 1800s. For decades, the plant was highly successful under the corporate umbrella of the W.J. Armstrong Manufacturing Co., which launched ACO Beverages around 1927. The "ACO" brand became synonymous with regional soft drinks, including popular flavors like ginger ale, orange drink, and lemon soda. By the late 1940s and early 1950s, the company transitioned to standard "ACL" (Applied Color Label) painted glass bottles manufactured by Duraglas. These vintage bottles—often featuring distinct two-color graphics and pin-up style imagery—are highly sought-after regional collector's items today.Lexicon
Nomenclature 4.0
Nomenclature Secondary Object Term
BottleNomenclature Primary Object Term
VesselNomenclature Class
ContainersNomenclature Category
Category 07: Distribution & Transportation ObjectsCondition
Reason for Exam
At AcquisitionOverall Condition
GoodDate Examined
Oct 8, 2026Relationships
Related Person or Organization
Person or Organization
Waseca Bottling Co.Create Date
October 8, 2026Update Date
October 20, 2026
