Quantcast
Channel: Warner’s Safe Cure Newspaper Advertising – Warner's Safe Cure Blog
Viewing all articles
Browse latest Browse all 17

The Giant of Medicines

0
0

This particular ad ran in the December 24, 1886 edition of the Conway Springs Star in Northfield, Kansas. This ad was not unique to that publication and, like many Warner’s Safe Cure ads, it was stock advertising that was distributed to newspapers throughout the United States.

I have always liked this ad because it embodies the hubris that was H. H. Warner.  First, the size of the ad was significant. This particular example occupied two columns for about 90% of the page.  Second,  in proclaiming itself “The Most Effective and Popular Remedy Ever Discovered,”  it did not mince words in staking its claims. Finally, I think that Mr. Warner tried to capture the attention of anyone suffering from any malady. His list is pretty comprehensive. We start out quite logically with Kidney Disease (which makes sense given the fact that it is a kidney and liver cure), Consumption (better known as Tuberculosis),  Impaired Eye Sight, Opium Habits, Rheumatism,  Bladder Disorders, Congestion, Female Complaints, Blood Disorders, Stomach Disorders,  Constipation, Piles and Headches.

The ad is basically about the wonders of Warner’s Safe Cure, but makes one mention of Warner’s Rheumatic Cure. Its strikes a familiar message in that all of these various maladies, according to Warner, sprang from problems with one’s kidneys.

When the “Giant of Medicines” ad appeared in 1886,  the Warner patent medicine business was at its peak, which probably accounts for the size of the ad and the breadth of its claims. As his fortunes waned into the 1890’s and he departed in 1893, the advertising continued, but there is a clear trend toward smaller ads. After the turn of the 20th Century, the ads placed for Warner’s Safe Remedies were definitely smaller and less boastful. Here is an example from 1925.


Viewing all articles
Browse latest Browse all 17

Latest Images

Trending Articles



Latest Images