Schlitz Princeton 1931 (paper Label) 25th Reunion Can

Princeton 1931 25th Reunion Can

The Schlitz Princeton 1931 (Paper Label) 25th Reunion Can commemorates the 25th milestone gathering of Princeton University's Class of 1931. Packaged by the Jos. Schlitz Brewing Company of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, this piece belongs to one of the most recognized traditions in collegiate breweriana.

Historical Context

Princeton reunions have long been famous for distinctive alumni regalia, elaborate costumes, and custom beverage containers. Beginning in the late 1930s, major American breweries began supplying alumni classes with custom-labeled beer cans for their major quinquennial and decennial celebrations. Jos. Schlitz was one of the key regional and national breweries that partnered with Princeton reunion committees to produce customized cans for graduating classes.

Labeling and Characteristics

Rather than using fully lithographed tinplate—which required substantial minimum production runs suitable only for massive national distribution—this container was issued with a paper label wrapped over a standard can body. The applied label integrates Class of 1931 reunion insignias with Schlitz's classic mid-century trade dress and slogans. Paper-labeled cans allowed the brewery to accommodate private event orders and specific alumni gatherings in limited quantities.

Collegiate reunion cans occupy a specialized niche among collectors, with Princeton issues representing a significant portion of known college-related beer containers. Variations exist among Princeton commemorative cans across different reunion years, label treatments, and brewery partnerships.