This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 12/31/2005.
Tired of rowing his boat to pick up ice cream for his future wife Bess, Ole Evinrude decided to create a lightweight, detachable motor that could power small boats. In 1907, he invented what is known as the "outboard motor." His wife later came up with the company's motto: "Don't row! Throw the oars away! Use an Evinrude motor." Although he died in 1934, his company still exists, as does the Evinrude brand of outboard motors. This original 1940s-1950s Evinrude "National Store" porcelain sign from Brandon, Vermont measures 48" x 72" and was produced by the Grace Sign Co. of St Louis. It reads "Evinrude, First in Outboards" in yellow and red lettering over blue, and "National Store, Phone 123W 17 Center St., Brandon, VT." in red letters over white. There is a rendition of boaters in the center ands nautical flags on the left. Pre-drilled holes for mounting surround the perimeter. In overall EX-EXMT condition, both bottom corners and the right edge of the sign show some surface rusting. This item will be expensive to ship.