I'm writing today of a company that is undoubtedly near and dear to me, Wurlitzer. Best known for their wonderfully crafted jukeboxes.
The company started not faraway from where I was raised in North Tonawanda, New York.
The very first jukebox was unveiled in 1933 and was suitably referred to as the Debutante. Unfortunately, sales were not quite so great on account of the Depression. Not many people could afford to shell out a nickel on a song when a loaf of bread was the same.The good news is, this didn't deter Farny Wurlitzer, who made a decision to hire a designer and modify the Debutante. His designer was imaginative and innovative.Using richly colored plastics and materials, he decided they would showcase the changer. The unique turning and playing both sides of the record delighted many.
Throughout the Depression a number of models were released with sales still lacking.
Finally in 1938, designer Mr. Fuller, AKA “Mr. Design”, began to see sales increase. By the 1940’s his branding design “Wurlitzer Arch” was second only to Coca Cola as being the most recognized symbol on the planet.
During the course of the war demand became high for Wurlitzer Jukeboxes with military personnel serving abroad. Nothing boosts moral like blaring music from home and it played in many military locations the world over.
Wurlitzer became a well-established world renowned brand.
The first model produced following the war was the stunning model 1015. It truly was a work of art and beauty.
In 1949 the last 78 RPM model was released, it was also the last design of the “Wurlitzer Arch”.Wurlitzer closed its doors in North Tonawanda, NY in 1983 after beingbought by Harris Company and moving to Chicago.
After fifty years in business Wurlitzer produced roughly 5 million units.The iconic jukeboxes have sparked many memories. Their unique style exuded a timeless glamour that few companies have ever achieved.
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| OLDSOULRETRO.COM |
Rachel Davies Google+ October 24, 2012
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