1933 Sign with NRA BLUE EAGLE from NEW DEAL National Recovery Administration

Item Details

Tin sign with the NRA Blue Eagle from the National Recovery Administration during the New Deal, circa 1933. The sign is made of a medium weight tin with the edges folded over the back, and it has holes at top and bottom for fasteners. The sign has a white circle set in a red background with a blue eagle in the center. The eagle has its wings spread, and in its talons it holds a gear and lightning bolts. The text reads NRA Member, U.S., We Do Our Part. This sign would have been hung in a factory, workshop, or store, showing that the company complied with the National Industrial Recovery Act. Part of Roosevelt’s New Deal, the act benefited labor by establishing minimum wages and maximum work hours. Many conservative business owners were very reluctant participants. I have the Blue Eagle from a factory here in Ashaway that was owned by a very politically conservative family, and I suspect their compliance was gained by the promise of New Deal infrastructure projects in the village. This sign is from the collection of the labor historian Scott Molloy. I have not cleaned it. The sign measures 9” by 13” and is in good or better condition with wear and soiling consistent with its age and use. Note the soiling and discoloration, the light bends and dings, and the fine scratches on the face. The green brown colored back also has some soiling and minor paint loss. Show the world that you’re a leftist by hanging this in your home or office! A nice early sign and a fun piece of New Deal labor history!