The 1910s, often referred to as the ‘Turbulent Decade’, were a time of significant social, political, and technological changes that influenced various aspects of life, including the world of graphic design. Here we dive into the remarkable logos from this era that have left a lasting impression on the brand identities we recognize today.

1.Coca-Cola: The unmistakable Spencerian script of the Coca-Cola logo was created in the late 19th century but became iconic in the 1910s. Its fluid and dynamic typography perfectly captured the spirit of optimism of the time.

2.General Electric (GE): With a logo that has seen very few changes over its long history, GE’s circular emblem with elegant, serif lettering has been a symbol of industrial strength and innovation since its early days.

3.IBM: The International Time Recording Company, which would later become IBM, had a logo in the 1910s with a globe and an ornate typeface. This suggested global reach and sophisticated technology.

4.Ford: Ford’s old blue oval trademark encapsulated a look that balanced classic style with modernity, an aesthetic that carried forward into Ford’s much-loved brand identity.

5.Shell: The original Shell logo featured a realistic shell illustration with bold lettering above it—a straightforward and distinctive look that laid the groundwork for its future evolution.

6.Nabisco: The famous Nabisco “antenna” trademark was introduced in 1912, representing a signal of excellence. It included a simple yet evocative red triangle atop their wordmark.

7.Goodyear: Goodyear’s iconic winged-foot trademark derives from a statue of Mercury in their founder’s home, symbolizing speed and grace – perfect for their tires which were destined to keep America moving during this fast-paced decade.

8.UPS: United Parcel Service (UPS) introduced their first shield logo in 1916, reflecting security and trust—the core principles UPS is still known for today within their service industry.

9.Frigidaire: Originally founded as Guardian Refrigerator Company, Frigidaire’s early branding featured strong typography encased within an appliance-like badge; it mirrored the company’s association with innovation in household cooling.

10.Sun-Maid: Launched on packets of California raisins in 1916, Sun-Maid’s bonnet-wearing girl became an instantly recognizable emblem associated with natural goodness – an example of warm human-centric branding that stood out during industrial times.

These designs not only survived their own time but also influenced countless logos developed afterward. They embody a blend of artistry and simplicity which has stood the test of time—proving that good design is truly timeless.