Underwood’s Deviled Ham: The Oldest Trademark Still in Use Today

by Peter August 25, 2022

written by Peter August 25, 2022

Underwood’s Deviled Ham: The Oldest Trademark Still in Use

The Birth of a Classic

On November 29, 1870, the William Underwood Co. of Boston, Massachusetts, made history by registering the first trademark for a food product in the United States: “Deviled Entremets” – a spicy spread intended for sandwiches, luncheons, and travelers’ repasts.

A Culinary Innovation

Underwood’s Deviled Ham was not the first trademarked food, but it quickly gained popularity. Its unique flavor and convenience appealed to consumers, and it soon became a staple in American pantries. The trademark itself was a testament to the company’s foresight and marketing savvy.

A Legacy of Endurance

Remarkably, Underwood’s Deviled Ham remains in use today, a testament to its enduring popularity. While other trademarked food products from that era have faded into obscurity, Underwood’s has stood the test of time.

The Trademark’s Significance

The longevity of Underwood’s trademark is a testament to the power of branding. By securing a trademark, the company established a strong legal claim to the unique identity of its product, protecting it from imitators and ensuring its continued recognition in the marketplace.

The Evolution of Trademarks

Underwood’s Deviled Ham trademark was filed with the newly established U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Since then, the trademarking process has undergone significant changes. Today, trademarks are essential for protecting intellectual property and ensuring fair competition in the marketplace.

Other Notable Early Trademarks

Underwood’s Deviled Ham was not the only notable early trademark. Other early trademarks included:

J.B. Baldy & Co. Railroad Brand Mustard
Tracy Coit Shadine (canned menhaden)
William Lanfair Ellis canned oysters

These trademarks, along with countless others, have played a vital role in the development of the American food industry.

The Canning Industry and Underwood’s Success

The William Underwood Co. was one of the first successful canning companies in the United States. Canning was a revolutionary technology that allowed food to be preserved for longer periods of time, making it more convenient and accessible to consumers. Underwood’s Deviled Ham was one of the many products that benefited from this technological advancement.

The Enduring Appeal of Underwood’s Deviled Ham

Underwood’s Deviled Ham has endured for over a century due to several factors:

Its unique and flavorful taste
Its convenience and versatility
Its strong brand recognition
The company’s commitment to quality

Conclusion

Underwood’s Deviled Ham is a culinary icon, a testament to the enduring power of innovation and branding. Its trademark is a symbol of the history and evolution of the American food industry.

Peter

Peter is a marketer with a background in business and a passion for writing. With a keen eye for detail and a talent for crafting compelling narratives, Peter has carved out a niche for himself as a versatile contributor to LifeScienceArt.com, where he enjoys sharing his insights and expertise across a wide array of topics. Peter's journey into the world of marketing began with his university education in business. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Business Administration. His academic pursuits were characterized by a deep understanding of market dynamics, consumer behavior, and strategic planning. This foundation laid the groundwork for his successful career in marketing, where he has applied his knowledge to help businesses grow and thrive in competitive landscapes. Throughout his career, Peter has worked with a diverse range of companies, from startups to large multinational conglomerates, helping them develop and execute effective marketing strategies. His experience spans various industries, including technology, healthcare, and consumer goods, reflecting his adaptability and broad skill set. Peter's ability to blend analytical thinking with creative problem-solving has made him a valuable asset in any organization he works with. Despite his busy professional life, Peter has always made time for his true passion: writing. He finds joy in the written word and believes in its power to inform, inspire, and connect people. This passion has found a perfect outlet in LifeScienceArt.com, where he contributes to all sections of the site. Whether it's penning thought-provoking articles on the latest trends in life sciences, crafting engaging profiles of industry leaders, or writing insightful pieces on art and its intersection with science, Peter brings a unique voice and perspective to his work. One of the aspects Peter cherishes most about his role at LifeScienceArt.com is the opportunity to collaborate with a wonderful cohort of writers. He values the camaraderie and the shared commitment to excellence that characterize the team. Working alongside talented and passionate individuals inspires him to continually hone his craft and push the boundaries of his writing. Outside of his professional pursuits, Peter is an avid reader and a lifelong learner. He enjoys exploring new ideas, delving into diverse genres of literature, and staying abreast of developments in science and art. His curiosity and enthusiasm for learning are reflected in his writing, where he strives to bring fresh insights and a nuanced understanding to his readers. Peter's story is one of dedication, versatility, and a deep-seated love for both marketing and writing. His contributions to LifeScienceArt.com not only enrich the site's content but also underscore the importance of passion and collaboration in creating meaningful and impactful work.