Thursday, December 20, 2012

It wouldn't be Christmas without Purity


A few days ago I set my mind to writing a Christmas blog entry and it was suggested that I write about Purity Factories products. I thought this a fantastic idea! Purity products like syrup, peppermint knobs and Jam Jams are a big part of the Christmas tradition in Newfoundland and Labrador. If you doubt the importance of Purity at Christmas time all you need to do is think back to the Christmas of 2010, when the factory was on strike. People nearly went frantic at the thought of not having their hard tack for Christmas Eve fish and brews. And what would the poor ol' mummers drink? Why it's a well known fact that Purity syrup is the preferred refreshment of mummers province wide. And a Christmas without peppermint knobs? I shudder to think of it!

 The Daily News. Dec.11, 1948

I went to work looking for some old Purity archival images or old Purity ephemera, such as ads, posters, or even old product packages. I surprisingly found very little besides old newspaper ads. Considering Purity was first started in 1924, I figured I'd have no trouble finding some things. But alas! I found very little and feared my blog entry would be near impossible to write.

Burke's popular songs. St. John's: Long Brothers, 1929.
The Evening Telegram, 1936.
But then, just as my hopes were fading I thought to myself, "this is the season for giving after all!"
So I'm asking for your help with this one. If you have any old Purity stuff tucked away take it out, dust it off, snap a few pictures and send them my way. Help make Christmas come early at the ICH office!

The Daily News.  Dec.11, 1948

I would also love to hear your memories of Purity products at Christmas time. What Purity items make Christmas for you?

You can reach Nicole with your Purity pictures and memories at:
nicole@heritagefoundaiton.ca
or call: 1-888-739-1892 ex.6



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