Grays Harbor Stamp Works

When we were thinking of a ten year anniversary logo I knew we would design it around an old labor union button.  I have always liked the colors, old fonts, and how they could cram all the little bits of info onto that little celluloid disc.  Obviously, they held significant meaning to the wearer but the button companies outfitting the unions seemed to take great pride in what they did as well.   One such company that proved to be more than just design inspiration for our logo was  G.H. (Grays Harbor) Stamp Works out of Aberdeen Washington.  I had seen a number of their old political and labor union pinbacks from the 30’s and 40’s and noticed their name written on the side so I thought I would see if they were still around.  Sure enough, Ron, Ken and David Windell are keeping the business alive and well that their Grandfather, Clary Windell, founded in 1916.

Besides buttons they can make rubber stamps and a plethora of other advertising specialties to fit anyone’s needs.

Grays Harbor Stamp Works circa 1919.

A sampling of their labor union buttons from the 40’s.

Our “Labor Union” 10 Year Anniversary Button.  Note the states abbreviations.

Not only do they do nice work, use old machines/techniques and keep an eye on the small details they still use old receipts, labels, letterhead, neat old boxes and a typewriter to address it all.  This is the sort of customer service and pride in what one does that our parents and grandparents were accustomed to and when experienced nowadays feels like you’re living in a different era.

*Give them a ring and be sure to ask for Ken – 1 800 894 3830