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JIM BEAM DECANTER HISTORY
The fascinating hobby of Beam decanter collecting has spread
across the nation and around the world. The Jim Beam Company, established
in 1795, has long been interested not only in the production of fine whiskey
but also in the designing and creating of artistic and attractive containers
for their superb Beam Bourbon.
In 1952 the Specialty Bottles were originated, making a
distinct change from their conventional whiskey bottles. A glass
Cocktail Shaker was designed in 1952, with the Christmas gift-giving public
in mind. In 1957, the first of the famous Trophy bottles were issued
- the colorful Fish Regal Chin decanter and the demure Duck. They
proved to be the first of a long line of distinctive china Trophy bottles.
During the succeeding years, in answer to the growing demand for these
unusual bottles, Beam issued both china and glass decanters, each unique
in conception and design. Some honored leading States of the Union,
some Centennials of cities and events; leading sports events were distinguished
by attractive decanters. Golf, horse racing, football, and tennis
events were in turn, honored - such bottles receiving the accolade of public
renown.
   
As the demand for ceramic decanters grew, many companies and large
retailers asked the Beam Company to create a decanter specifically for
them. These bottles become known as Customer Specialties. In
1955, the Jim Beam Company produced the first Executive decanter to commemorate
its 160th birthday. Thereafter, an Executive decanter was issued
each year, designed for the holiday season. They are highly ornate
and colorful containers, seemingly out of a King's treasure room, decorated
with 22 carat gold! Beam's highest price premium whiskey is put into
these bottles.
  
Some collectors specialize in Series Collecting; such as Sports,
Wheels, Trophies, Ducks Unlimited..see our great pictorial page for all
the series listed with pictures of all the Beam Bottles.
PICTORIAL
INDEX
JIM BEAM CLUB HISTORY
The first Beam Club, the National Jim Beam Bottle an Specialties Club,
was formed in Berkeley, California in 1966, beginning with 16 members.
Within a year, over 100 members were spread around the Bay Area.
Many other Beam Clubs sprung up across the country and proved to be vital,
motivating forces for the collectors. The membership grew, excellent
bulletins(newsletters) were published and club bottles were proposed for
addition to the Beam Collection.
Dozen of other clubs were added as enthusiasm grew, each a leader
in its area. There were over 19,000 collectors around the world.
In 1970, it was realized that a national organization of Beam Clubs would
be advantageous to all. The National Jim Beam Bottle and Specialties
Clubs or Berkeley, CA, led the way. It established an office in Belmont,
California, and preliminary meetings of Beam Club Presidents were held.
The National Association of Jim Beam Bottle and Specialties Clubs were
formed in February 1971. Temporary offices were elected to serve
until the 1st National Convention which was held in June 1971, in Denver
Colorado.
Soon foreign clubs came into existence. At the 3rd Convention held
in Detroit, Michigan, in July 1973, the name of the Association was changed
to International Association of Jim Beam Bottle and Specialties Club (IAJBBSC).
With active beam clubs in Europe, Australia, New Zealand and Canada.
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Information provide by Jim Beam Bottles A Pictorial
Guide~published 1982, Taylor Publishing Co.
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