Posted 10 years ago
DerBayz
(89 items)
So I went to an auction on Saturday and I purchased a mystery box of stuff because I wanted a belt buckle that was in the box. As I am learning, the belt buckle is not what I should have been paying attention too. I found this advertising medallion (I believe that is what it is) and I was hoping that someone could tell me a little more about it. I believe it is from the 70's The front reads "Troy-Bilt Roto Tiller-Power Composters Troy, NY" and the back reads "Troy-Bilt Good Gardeners Club, Living the Garden Way" with "Good Gardening Green Manuring" in the center. Has anyone seen this type of advertising medallion before?
Howdy,
Yes, you are correct. I worked at the tiller factory for decades as part of the marketing staff that developed such things. It was a token of appreciation for many of the Troy-Bilt owners that we communicated with. Late-70's is about right, as I recall. I have a couple of these.
Background: In 1930, Carl Kelsey formed Rototiller, Inc and imported Swiss and German large commercial walk-behind tillers. Moved from Long Island City to Troy, NY in 1937. Became huge in the commercial market and also with residential, especially as a result of WWII and Victory Gardens. Started selling via mail order in the late 60's and exploded in the early 70's with the dual energy crises driving people to gardening.
We built the business on unique, top quality products, and a unique marketing method that included over-the-top customer service. We loved our customers and they loved us back.
Lots more to the story. Sadly, went out of business in 2000 and sold assets to MTD, who uses the name on many products, including the famous Horse model Troy-Bilt Rototiller -- Power Composter.