Sidney Smith created the popular comic strip The Gumps in 1917. The character Andy Gump ran for President in 1924, at least according to an eBay listing. Numerous pinbacks and pocket mirrors attest to this campaign, most promoting by name a product or establishment. Would these promotions be sufficient for Andy Gump to take on Republican Calvin Coolidge, Democrat John W. Davis, or Progressive Robert M. La Follette? Probably not. After Sidney Smith's death in 1935, cartoonist Gus Edson took over The Gumps strip.
Note: Mark Landsdown has posted his collection of Andy Gump pinbacks.
Attempted Bloggery's quick links:
Sidney Smith "Andy Gump for President Eat, Drink and Smoke at Saliman Bros." Pocket Mirror |
A pinback promotes Butternut Bread. Years later, the characters of the Peanuts comic strip would promote this product.
Sidney Smith "Andy Gump for President
Eat Butternut Bread"
Pinback |
Not troubled by pangs of brand loyalty, Andy Gump also promoted Papendick's Dinner Belle Bread and Butter-Krust Bread.
Sidney Smith "Andy Gump for President Butter-Krust Bread for Your Table" Pocket Mirror |
One doesn't just run for President without first accruing some political experience. Earlier, perhaps in 1922, Andy Gump ran for Congress.
Sidney Smith "For Congress Andy Gump" Pinback |
Attempted Bloggery's quick links:
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