The gummed tape became popular for its strong adhesive properties and the secure bond created when it was moistened. It was commonly used for packaging and sealing cardboard boxes, which came to replace wooden crates and boxes in the earlier twentieth century. By the 1970s, pressure-sensitive tapes such as cellophane and duct tape had gained popularity due to their convenience and ease of use. Such tapes did not require moisture for activation and could be applied with simple pressure. Gummed tapes quickly passed out of favor and have only found a niche market among artists and crafters in recent years, for their unique properties.
This remnant of a gummed tape roll dates back to the 1950s and was used for a Sylvan Aluminum Gear Set as made by a Dexter Machine Products Company in Chelsea, MI. The firm is still making machined products today but the tape advertises (along with Ford, Chevrolet, and GMC trucks) vintage automotive manufacturers Hudson, Studebaker, and Willy’s Jeep. Hudson went out of business in 1954, Studebaker made its Champion model only until 1958 and the Commander until around 1960, and Willys dropped using its name with its Jeep brand in 1963. Our guess is that this tape dates from the mid-to-late 1950s as there may have been a few new Hudson models still floating around even after the factory closed.
We’re not suggesting you lick the tape and use it to send ebay packages, but this is a nice bit of automotive history to go with a mid-century automotive collection or someone interested in Michigan and Indiana automotive history. As shown in the pictures, there is several feet of tape (not sure exactly how much) wrapped around a cardboard tube holder. What exists is in excellent and unused condition (back still has its dry adhesive). Stick with us here because where are you going to find another collectible like this? Check out our other automotive and petroliana items at www.ebay.com/str/agitpropshoppe
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