Old Shay Golden Cream Ale Test Can

Fort Pitt Old Shay Test Can

Produced under the Fort Pitt Brewing Company name in Smithton, Pennsylvania, the Old Shay Golden Cream Ale test can represents a notable artifact from the regional brewing landscape of Western Pennsylvania. The Fort Pitt label, which had a long history in the Pittsburgh area, saw its portfolio produced out of the Smithton facility following mid-century industry consolidations.

This test can was manufactured as a factory sample and lithographic trial by the canning manufacturer to assess graphic alignment, ink shades, and brand presentation prior to full commercial output. Because these test cans were produced exclusively for quality control, technical setup, and brewery approval, they did not enter the standard filling line or commercial distribution channels. Surviving examples often remained air-sealed factory blanks without ever containing beer, with some specimens preserved as internal plant souvenirs.

The exterior display features the Old Shay insignia and horse-and-carriage motif alongside the Smithton, Pennsylvania brewery designation. While variations exist among pre-production proofs and factory trials from the canning plant, these developmental cans provide collectors with direct insight into the graphic design and production processes of Pennsylvania breweriana.