Essex Radiator Emblem

Essex Radiator Emblem

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Description
This radiator emblem belonged to an Essex automobile that was manufactured by the Hudson Motor Car Company of Detroit, Michigan between 1919 and 1932. The Essex line was introduced by the Hudson Motor Car Company as a budget car. Available for $1,295 in 1922, it was a best seller and pushed Hudson's sales up to an eventual ranking of 3rd in U.S. production. This badge has a read enamel background, with a white rim and white lettering that reads “ESSEX/MOTORS/DETROIT/USA.”
Radiator emblems are small, colorful metal plates bearing an automobile manufacturer's name or logo that attached to the radiators grilles of early automobiles. Varying in shape and size, the emblems served as a small branding device, sometimes indicating the type of engine, place of manufacturing, or using an iconic image or catchy slogan to advertise their cars make and model. This emblem is part of the collection that was donated by Hubert G. Larson in 1964.
Location
Currently not on view
Object Name
emblem, radiator
Other Terms
emblem, radiator; Road; Automobile
ID Number
TR.325528.102
accession number
260303
catalog number
325528.102
Credit Line
Hubert G. Larson
See more items in
Work and Industry: Transportation, Road
Radiator Emblems
Transportation
Road Transportation
Data Source
National Museum of American History
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