Who would have thought that a page out of an old magazine could become a collectible just because it advertised a character, candy, or a mundane service? And when you combine a beloved product with a cool spokesperson… it even becomes priceless!
I have three examples of print advertising pages that combine great artwork, interesting characters, and an innovative premise. First, let’s have a look at a very colorful and action-packed example:
Remember the Gremlins? Even the most rabid Disney fan can be forgiven for not knowing this abandoned project. You can learn more details about these cute little troublemakers by visiting my earlier post entitled Gremlins PVC Figurine Set. From that post I reported that “The Gremlins is a children’s book that was written by Roald Dahl and published in 1943. It was Dahl’s first children’s book, and was written for Walt Disney Productions, as a promotional device for a planned feature-length animated film.”
From the date of the writing of the original book and the ad copy on this page, I would guess that it’s from during the Second World War. Life Savers are touted as the ultimate cure for when Gremlins cause trouble on the air field, in the army camp, or at the battle station. But it seems in this instance it is the Gremlins who need help! Don’t feel too sorry for the little guys as it is probably them who caused the runaway life savers anyway.
Above we see the most eclectic Board of Directors in history. Only at Disney! With Br’er Fox, the Wicked Witch, Captain Hook and Smee in on the decision making, it’s hard to imagine anything getting approved. But somehow Hertz managed to convince a majority to vote for giving them the exclusive rights to on-property rental car services.
FUN FACTS: Did you know that Mr. Hertz started his first business in Chicago? He was a new car dealer. After taking in many used cars on trade, he needed something to do with them, as they were not selling. So he used them by started the Yellow Cab company. Eventually he had to compete with the newer Checker Cab company. After some very dirty competition (including running gun battles between cab drivers!) and death threats (!) Hertz decided to leave the cab business. He came out of retirement to start… Hertz Rent-a-Car.
This advertising page is dated 1971. Another fun thing to ponder is the location of the boardroom pictured here. What building would have such a view of Cinderella Castle?
Last but not least we meet the Happiest Pair in Frontierland! The Frito Kid and Pecos Bill (Disney Legend Wally Boag) are billed as ‘friendly rivals’ in Frontierland with The Frito Kid hosting at the Casa de Fritos and Pecos Bill hosting over at The Golden Horseshoe Revue.
Pepsi-Cola and Fritos are the perfect pairing to quench your thirst and satisfy your case of the munchies! For more on the Frito Kid and the Golden Horseshoe Revue you can see pages 10 and 11 of the Disneyland News featured in this earlier post.
So what do you think? Are these torn-out pages from old magazines collectible? Would they look good framed and displayed on your wall? If nothing else they would be a talking point!
