Polychrome-painted Wooden "J.I. Case Threshing Machine Co." Trade Sign

Polychrome-painted Wooden "J. I. Case Threshing Machine Co." Trade Sign, Racine, Wisconsin, late 19th century, rectangular panel painted red with polychrome decoration depicting a bird's-eye view of the farm machinery manufactory on the shore of Lake Michigan in Racine, Wisconsin, 13 3/4 x 40 in. Note: J.I. Case Co., the third largest tractor manufacturer in the United States, was incorporated in 1880 as the J.I. Case Threshing Machine Co. The business was originally established by Jerome Increase Case in 1842. He was the first American to create a steam engine for agricultural use. The J.I. Case Threshing Machine Co. was actively engaged in the building of steam tractors in the 1890s, later manufacturing gasoline-powered machinery. J.I. Case introduced an eagle logo for the first time in 1865 after a legendary Wisconsin Civil War Regiment's mascot, as can be seen on this trade sign. The company merged with many others, changed its name numerous times, and is still in business today, now the Navistar International Corporation. a few surface scratches and abrasions.