Hold onto your hats, folks! We're diving into the thrilling world of vintage 1970s Elk Crate Labels, and this one's a real gem! Crafted by the legendary Setrakian and Company out of Delano, California, this beauty is a time capsule of agricultural history.

Measuring a impressive 13"x 4", this label is in pristine condition with barely a scratch on it. Talk about a collector's dream!

Now, let's take a wild ride through the Setrakian & Company saga! Picture this: It's the late 1920s, and Armenian immigrant Arpaxat "Abe" Setrakian is on a mission. He's not just planting grapes; he's planting the seeds of an empire! Thompson, Flame, and Muscat grapes burst forth from Delano's fertile soil, nourished by the life-giving waters of the Kings River. What started as a humble family operation soon blossomed into a grape-shipping powerhouse, revolutionizing the industry with centralized picking, grading, packing, and refrigerated rail-car loading all under one roof!

Fast forward to the mid-20th century, and Setrakian & Company is firing on all cylinders! Their Delano packinghouse is a marvel of modern engineering, boasting cutting-edge optical sizing lines and rapid-chill tunnels. Every cluster of grapes, whether bound for domestic markets or exotic locales abroad, arrives at its destination bursting with flavor and freshness. Talk about grape expectations!

But wait, there's more! The 1970s saw the birth of their iconic Elk Brand crate labels. Picture a majestic six-point elk silhouette, standing proud on a lithographed canvas. This wasn't just a label; it was a statement! It screamed quality and commanded attention in bustling rail yards. And for the true connoisseurs, keep an eye out for those special variants featuring premium grape varieties like Alicante Bouschet. These rare beauties are distinguished by subtle type changes or alterations to the block, as seen in this extraordinary example.

Today, these vintage 1970s Elk Crate Labels are more than just pieces of paper; they're windows into a bygone era. You'll find them gracing the hallowed halls of special collections, like the Pfau Library at California State University, San Bernardino. They pop up in online auctions, sparking bidding wars among collectors who recognize their true value. It's not just about owning a label; it's about preserving a legacy of innovation and craftsmanship that defined an era in fruit production.

Let's talk about the artistry behind these labels. The lithography process used to create them is nothing short of magic. Imagine skilled artisans meticulously etching designs onto stone or metal plates, creating images so vivid and detailed that they put modern printing techniques to shame. It's no wonder these labels are in such high demand!

Museums and art institutes are scrambling to dedicate entire galleries to these miniature masterpieces. But here's the kicker: once they're gone, they're gone for good. The supply is dwindling, and soon enough, these treasures will be locked away in private collections or museum vaults, out of reach for the average enthusiast.

But here's your chance to own a piece of history! Imagine this stunning vintage 1970s Elk Crate Label proudly displayed in your home. It's not just decor; it's a conversation starter, a slice of Americana that brings character and charm to any room. Why let it gather dust in a museum when it could be the crown jewel of your living space?

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to own a piece of California's agricultural heritage. This vintage 1970s Elk Crate Label isn't just a collectible; it's a time machine that transports you back to the golden age of fruit crate art. Grab it while you can, because labels like these are becoming rarer than a snowstorm in the San Joaquin Valley!