Williams Purple Cow Lager '39 25th Reunion Can

Williams 1939 Reunion Zip Top

The Can

The Williams Purple Cow Lager 12-ounce can is a straight steel zip top produced as a commemorative release for the Williams College Class of 1939 during their 25th reunion in 1964. Unlike souvenir containers produced empty as novelties, these cans were factory-filled with genuine lager for attendees at the reunion festivities. The front display features a banner reading "WILLIAMS" across the top and "Purple Cow LAGER" along the base, framing a graphic of the purple bovine spraying a stream of milk directly into the open beak of a pelican.

The Brand

Williams Purple Cow was not a standard commercial brand, but rather a custom-commissioned promotional label honoring the mascot and traditions of Williams College in Williamstown, Massachusetts. The "Purple Cow" motif originated in the late 19th century from Gelett Burgess's nonsense poem and was quickly adopted across the campus, serving as the title of its humor magazine and eventual collegiate mascot. For the silver anniversary of the Class of 1939, alumni organizers arranged for a dedicated lager packaged specifically for the weekend's celebrations.

The Brewery

This custom run was brewed and packaged by the Narragansett Brewing Company in Cranston, Rhode Island. Established in 1890, Narragansett grew into the dominant brewing powerhouse of New England. The brewery survived Prohibition by producing near-beer and medicinal malt extracts, rebounding strongly in the post-repeal era. By the mid-20th century, Narragansett was famous throughout the Northeast for its regional marketing, sports sponsorships, and familiar catchphrase, "Hi, Neighbor! Have a 'Gansett!" The company operated its expansive Cranston facility until being acquired by the Falstaff Brewing Corporation in 1965, with local brewing eventually ceasing in 1981.

Collecting Context

Private-label commemorative cans from the early pull-tab era hold a distinguished place in breweriana collecting. Because they were produced in limited quantities for private gatherings rather than retail distribution, surviving examples are notably scarce. This can is especially prized by both vintage beer can enthusiasts and collegiate memorabilia collectors due to its connection to Williams College history, its bold graphic design, and its status as an authentic, beer-filled reunion issue.