Firestone Neon Sign: Vintage 1940’s Die Cut Porcelain Automobilia – VS6627

Firestone Tire Company And Porcelain Signs History

Early Firestone advertisement. Firestone Tire and Rubber Company, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Firestone porcelain signs have a rich history and were used by the Firestone Tire and Rubber Company to advertise their products and services in the early 20th century. Firestone Tire and Rubber Company was founded in 1900 by Harvey S. Firestone, who had a vision of creating a high-quality tire company. The company quickly grew and became one of the leading tire manufacturers in the world.

In the early 20th century, Firestone began supplying tires to the burgeoning automobile industry, and in 1911, the company opened a new tire plant in Akron, Ohio. Firestone tires became famous for their quality, durability, and performance, and the company enjoyed great success. Firestone was also involved in auto racing, and its tires were used by many of the top drivers and teams. Firestone's success continued through the 1920’s and 1930’s, and by the 1940’s, the company was one of the largest tire manufacturers in the world.

The first Firestone porcelain signs were produced in the 1920’s and were made from thick, durable porcelain enamel. These signs were brightly colored and featured the famous Firestone logo, which featured a stylized "F" with wings. Firestone Porcelain Signs were used in a variety of settings, including gas stations, tire shops, and other businesses that sold Firestone products. The signs were designed to be visible from a distance, and were often mounted on buildings or on tall poles.

The first Firestone store. Firestone Tire and Rubber Company, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Firestone also produced batteries for a period of time. In 1907, the company began producing batteries for automobiles and other applications. Firestone batteries were known for their durability and reliability, and they quickly became popular with consumers. In the 1920’s and 1930’s, Firestone batteries were widely used in commercial and military applications, including airplanes and submarines. During World War II, Firestone produced batteries for the military, and the company's batteries were used in many different types of equipment. After the war, Firestone continued to produce batteries, but the market for automotive batteries became increasingly competitive. In the 1960’s, Firestone sold its battery business to the Exide Corporation, and the Firestone battery brand eventually disappeared.

Firestone Porcelain Signs continued to be produced through the 1950’s and 1960’s. One of the most famous Firestone Porcelain Signs is the "Time Tells" sign, which featured a clock face and the Firestone logo. This sign was installed in many Firestone stores and became a well-known symbol of the brand. However, by the 1970’s, the rise of plastic signs and other forms of advertising led to a decline in the popularity of porcelain signs.

In 1988, the Firestone company was acquired by the Japanese tire manufacturer Bridgestone Corporation. Today, Firestone is a subsidiary of Bridgestone and continues to produce high-quality tires for a variety of vehicles. Today, Firestone porcelain signs are highly collectible and is one of the most coveted brands for automobilia and tire company memorabilia collectors.