The Vintage Water Decals of America’s National Parks
by Ron Wolfe of American Pickers
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In the world of vintage collectibles, few items evoke the spirit of adventure and Americana quite like the water decals from the 1950s, especially those showcasing our beloved national parks. These small yet vibrant pieces of art were more than mere decorations; they represented a post-war era of exploration and discovery, capturing the beauty of the great outdoors as families took to the highways for summer road trips. Every decal told a story, inviting travelers to embrace the landscape, the flora, and the fauna of America’s wild spaces.
As I’ve traveled many back roads and highways to historic monuments, attractions, and the national parks, I have collected over 4,000 of these decals. I’ve stumbled across this intriguing subset of vintage decals that once adorned gas stations, roadside lures, and local motels. These decals were often produced in small batches and featured stunning, hand-painted depictions of national parks like Yellowstone, Yosemite, and the Grand Canyon. The bright, bold designs promoted tourism to these destinations. Also, they served as mementos in a time when Americans sought adventure far beyond their backyard – a stark contrast to today’s digital images, which live online, not in your hand or displayed in a frame. There’s something magical about water decals, as they resonate with the thrill of hitting the open road, fueled by a sense of wanderlust.
The resurgence of interest in these collectibles has sparked a new appreciation among vintage enthusiasts and collectors alike. Many are not just drawn to the art deco style and nostalgic themes – they also see the potential for investment. Mint-condition decals featuring intricate designs and limited runs tend to fetch from $20 to upwards of $300 in today’s market, particularly those tied to popular locations. Collectors gather at shows and online auctions, drawn by the allure of Americana and the story each piece carries.
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It’s thrilling to see a simple water decal transcend its humble origins to become a cherished memento of travel and exploration.
Today, as I sift through boxes of vintage goods, I am always on the lookout for these water decals. Not only do they represent a bygone era of Americana, but they also serve as a reminder of our national parks’ natural beauty and the joy of spontaneous road trips. So, whether you’re a serious collector or just someone drawn to the charm of the past, keep your eyes peeled. You never know when you might find a piece that transports you back to a simpler time – one where the journey was as essential as the
destination itself, and the adventure began at the first glimpse of a lively decal whispering tales of the great outdoors.
Best known for his co-hosting role on The History Channel’s long-running hit, American Pickers, Rob Wolfe is also a seasoned antique dealer. From vintage signs to antique cars and motorcycles, and everything in between, Rob has an extensive knowledge of, and passion for, all things antique. He’s been collecting unique items and learning about their history since early childhood and today that passion can be seen at his showroom in Bettendorf, Iowa, where Rob hosted the annual Bettendorf Americana Car show and Antique Auction.