In addition to collecting Christmas music, I have collected nearly 1000 vintage Christmas ads over the years. Many of these include celebrities, radio, television, cigarettes, liquor, modern appliances, and the like.
As with my ear for the strange and peculiar with Christmas music, I have an eye for the strange and peculiar with Christmas ads. This inaugural ad post definitely falls into this category.
I invite you to add a fun comment, witticism, clever remark, or observation in the comments section provided. Any comments deemed worthy of repeating will be included into this entry where all the world will see it.
The Arrow Shirt company had some of the most colorful advertisements at Christmas time. From Santa trying on long underwear to dad sporting a new shirt at Christmas, most ads were understated and tasteful.
Which makes this ad from 1947 a little bit bewildering and disturbing:
(Click on image to enlarge)
Okay, so Arrow Shirts are popular and more shirts are becoming available daily... is that really a reason to off Santa Claus with a muzzleloader? I don't really think suicide is a very good way to sell your product, especially at Christmas!
What do you think?
Stubbyfears says: I think that is WAY disturbing and you have to wonder what the heck the ad company, and Arrow Shirts themselves, were thinking when they dreamed this up.
Stephen says: Holy crap, I can't believe this actually got printed. Imagine what the kiddies who saw this must have thought.
Ernie says: I think it's a simple case of Santa confusing his blunderbus with his ear trumpet. Yeah, that's the ticket.
Jonathan says: After months of intense counseling and group therapy Santa Claus recovers daily from his depression. Now, during the off Yuletide Season, Santa travels the World hosting seminars about the virtues of righteous living and quality made men's clothing.
Tim says: Shortly after this was printed, Santa joined an intense group thereapy session and was give a perscription for Zoloft.
Creedmoor says: R. Budd Claus.
Any other opinions?
Capt
