Sign Size (H x L): 22.25” x 61.5” x 1”

Offered is a distinctive early 20th-century antique trade sign for the "J.T. McMillan Sanitary Meat Market".  The sign’s charming historical character is defined by its bold, black lettering accented with a yellow silhouette, which stands out against the oyster-white background, ensuring high visibility and a classic, eye-catching appeal.  The sign possesses a commanding presence, ideal for a feature display.

The story of J.T. McMillan and his son, J.T. McMillan Jr., stands as a testament to ingenuity, enterprise, and the spirit of innovation that transformed the meat packing industry in the United States.  Their legacy is not only a narrative of a family business but also a chapter in the broader history of American commerce and labor relations.

James T. McMillan, born in Belfast, Ireland in 1839, embarked on a journey to the United States with a vision of prosperity and opportunity.  Settling in St. Paul, Minnesota, McMillan leveraged his tenacity and business acumen to establish a meatpacking venture that would grow to become a hallmark of quality and efficiency.  In 1871, he laid the foundation of what was to become the J.T. McMillan Company, a name that would resonate with trust and quality in the meat industry.

McMillan's approach to meat packing was revolutionary.  At a time when the industry was characterized by fragmented operations and unsanitary conditions, the J.T. McMillan Company pioneered methods of refrigeration and mechanization that would set new standards.  His commitment to quality was reflected in the company’s products, which soon became synonymous with wholesomeness and were sought after across the region.

J.T. McMillan was not only an industrialist; he was a community pillar in St. Paul.  His contributions to the local economy and the well-being of its residents were profound.  He provided employment, stability, and growth in a period of rapid industrialization, often leading the charge in adopting practices that would benefit both his company and the community.

Following in his father’s footsteps, J.T. McMillan Jr. continued to expand and innovate within the meat packing industry. Under his guidance, the company adapted to the changing times, embracing new technologies and expanding their reach to new markets. It was during this era that the company faced the tumultuous challenges of labor unrest, indicative of the growing pains of an industrial nation. In 1920, the Butcher Workmen's strike at the packing plant called attention to the need for fair labor practices and equitable wages. The strike, which included both male and female workers, resulted in a significant step towards improved conditions and was a pivotal moment in labor history.

The McMillan meat packing enterprise was more than a business; it was a microcosm of the American dream, embodying the transformation of a nation through the lens of industry. The senior McMillan's immigrant success story and the junior McMillan's navigation through the complexities of early 20th-century labor relations provide a narrative rich with themes of ambition, struggle, adaptation, and progress.

Today, the remnants of the J.T. McMillan Company serve as a reminder of the indelible impact that the McMillan’s had on the American meat packing industry and the labor movement. Theirs is a story that underscores the multifaceted nature of progress, highlighting both the industrial prowess and the human elements that drive the evolution of commerce and community.

Condition Report: Crafted from pine, the sign showcases the authentic patina of age, including wear commensurate with its use.  Its condition tells a story; while the sign displays well, it shows evidence of several restorative attempts, such as nailing and applied moldings, which add to its authenticity and charm.

Collectability Level: The Great – Perfect for Rising Collectors 
Date of Origin: 1900-1930