Harvard Export Beer Flat Top Can

Harvard Export Beer Flat Top Can

This mid-1950s flat top container represents one of the final iterations of Harvard Export Beer produced at the original Lowell, Massachusetts facility. Printed on a three-piece soldered steel body, the can prominently showcases the "foam fresh" marketing slogan set in white lowercase inside a bold red banner. The top yellow rim designates the product's pedigree with the bold "GREEN LABEL" inscription, tying the export brew to the company's traditional lager lineup. At center stage, a large green chevron frames the arched "HARVARD" nameplate beneath the company's official trademark: a red flag emblazoned with an "H" flying from a mast. The lower yellow margin provides the mandatory identification for the Harvard Brewing Company in Lowell along with the 12 fluid ounce measure.

Harvard introduced Export Beer as part of its post-Prohibition portfolio, complementing its flagship Green Label lager, porter, and ales. Positioned as a staple New England brew, it was heavily marketed across regional package stores and neighborhood establishments. The mid-1950s "foam fresh" slogan was adopted during a broader packaging refresh designed to emphasize fresh, draft-like head retention straight from the container.

The Harvard Brewing Company was established in Lowell in the late 19th century, operating as the Consumers Brewing Company before adopting the Harvard moniker in 1898. Operating out of an expansive brick brewing plant on Payton Street, the firm grew into one of the largest brewing establishments in Massachusetts. It survived Prohibition through the production of legal near-beer—though it faced federal raids when government agents alleged certain vats exceeded permissible limits. Following repeal in 1933, the brewery modernized rapidly and reclaimed its place as a regional manufacturing giant. However, mounting postwar competition from national shipping breweries eventually eroded its local market share, leading to the closure of the Lowell plant in late 1956 when brand rights were absorbed by Hampden Brewing Company of Willimansett.

For regional breweriana historians, this can is an essential artifact representing the closing chapter of Lowell’s industrial brewing legacy. Because it carries the original Lowell mandatory just prior to the brand's relocation to Willimansett, it serves as a prized centerpiece for collectors specializing in mid-century New England cans.