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JENNINGS’ MEXICAN VANILLA — GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN
A colorful survivor from an early American kitchen! This 5½-inch clear glass bottle retains its original illustrated paper label and cork. The label advertises “Jennings’ Double Concentrated Mexican Vanilla” and shows vanilla pods, leaves, and a flower in rich green, brown, and yellow.
THE MAKER & ITS HISTORY
Charles W. Jennings began making flavoring extracts in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1872. Jennings sold extracts for home baking, promoting them for cakes, pastries, and desserts. This bottle comes from the era when a shopper could ask the grocer for a particular local brand, then take it home to add a measured splash of vanilla to a family recipe.
The “Double Concentrated” wording was Jennings’ strength claim. “Mexican Vanilla” is the product name printed on the original label; the label does not identify where its vanilla was grown.
DATE & DETAILS
Circa 1910–1930. This is an estimated range based on the bottle, label, and documented period of Jennings’ flavoring-extract business; no exact production year is marked.
• Maker: Jennings Flavoring Extract Company
• Location: Grand Rapids, Michigan
• Original contents: Mexican vanilla flavoring extract
• Height: Approximately 5½ inches
• Features: Original illustrated paper label and original cork
• Current contents: Empty
CONDITION
The original label is substantially intact, legible, and especially attractive, with vivid color remaining in the vanilla illustration. It shows age toning, light wear, and a small stained spot near the left edge. The original cork has darkened with age. Please examine all photographs for the condition of the glass, label, and cork.
A lovely display piece for a collection of antique food packaging, kitchen advertising, vanilla extracts, or Grand Rapids history.
