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Advertising in Britain, 1900-1916


A motor wagon with samples of Canadian produce, and an invitation to "Share In The Last Best West", photographed in London in 1907.

 

 
National Archives of Canada
C-79657





National Archives of Canada
C-79620
 

A large "gaso-electric" wagon was custom-built in Detroit for use in Britain. "Of all the unique, clever, original and dignified methods of advertising adopted by the progressive branch of the Canadian Government this is by all means the most novel" the advance publicity said.

The wagon was powered by electricity, generated by a 12-horsepower gasoline engine which accompanied the large vehicle. "At night a blaze of between three and four hundred incandescent lamps will give a beautiful illumination bringing into relief the splendid exhibit of bright grains and grasses tastefully arranged on a royal blue background", said the wagon's promoters. But the expensive American wagon proved too heavy and too large for most British roads, and unable to climb a gradient beyond 1 in 25. The next advertising wagon was built in England.




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The Early Years
1870-1897
Advertising in Britain
1900-1916
Advertising in Europe
1900-1920s
Presenting newcomers to Canada,
1910-1911
Advertising in the United States
1900-1920s
Advertising in Britain
1920s
The Early Years, 1870-1897 Advertising in Britain, 1900-1916 Advertising in Europe, 1900-1920s Presenting newcomers to Canada, 1910-1911 Advertising in the United States, 1900-1920s Advertising in Britain, 1920s