Brewing History: Felix’s Premium Extract Coffee by Weikel & Smith Spice Company

The trademark for Felix’s Premium Extract Coffee, registered on October 9, 1888, by the Weikel & Smith Spice Company, offers a vivid look into the marketing and branding strategies of the late 19th century. With its bold blue design and ornate lettering, this trademark reflects the growing demand for coffee and the fierce competition among producers during this time.

Historical Context:

By the late 1800s, coffee was becoming a staple in American households, thanks to advances in shipping, roasting, and packaging techniques. Companies like Weikel & Smith Spice Co., based in Philadelphia, were at the forefront of meeting this demand by offering products like Felix’s Premium Extract Coffee, marketed for its quality and convenience. The term “extract” suggests a concentrated coffee product, potentially used for making beverages quickly or as a flavoring for cooking and baking.

The Proprietors:

The Weikel & Smith Spice Company was a prominent Philadelphia-based business that specialized in spices, coffee, and other pantry essentials. While specific details about the company’s founders, Weikel and Smith, are limited, the trademark showcases their focus on branding that emphasized both premium quality and attention to detail. The “Established 1842” tagline on the trademark hints at the company’s long-standing reputation, which likely gave Felix’s Premium Extract Coffee an edge in a crowded market.

Trademark Design:

The intricate design of this trademark is striking, with bold lettering surrounded by decorative flourishes. The phrases “Must Be Kept Dry” and “Philadelphia” are prominently displayed, reflecting both a practical storage recommendation and the company’s pride in its local roots. Such designs not only protected the brand legally but also created strong visual identities that resonated with customers.

Interesting Fact:

The 1880s marked a significant shift in how coffee was sold and consumed. Pre-packaged coffee products like Felix’s Premium Extract offered convenience and consistency, a stark contrast to the traditional method of buying whole beans and roasting them at home. This innovation was a precursor to the instant coffee market that would emerge decades later.

The Felix’s Premium Extract Coffee trademark is more than just a brand—it’s a reflection of an era when coffee became an integral part of daily life and companies like Weikel & Smith Spice Co. helped shape the American coffee culture we know today.