Trays by Theme: Bakelite & Fibrotta

Theme: Bakelite & Fibrotta

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The Bakelite & Fibrotta themed trays feature trays that are made of interesting man made materials of the time. Were they produced because metal was being rationed for wartime production? Were they looking for materials better suited to wet slippery glasses and bottles? We will add research as we engage with our NABA members and details come forward. Please send us any other examples of this interesting trays, by following the link above.

Bartels Brewing Co.

Syracuse, NY
Fibrotta

Bartels Brewing Co.

Edwardsville, PA
Fibrotta

Fell Brewing Co.

Pottsville, PA
Fibrotta

Jos. Laurer Brewing Co.

Binghampton, NY
Fibrotta

Monroe Brewing Co.

Rochester, NY
Fibrotta

Bakelite

"Polyoxybenzylmethylenglycolanhydride, better known as Bakelite, was the first plastic made from synthetic components. It is a thermosetting phenol formaldehyde resin, formed from a condensation reaction of phenol with formaldehyde. It was developed by the Belgian-American chemist Leo Baekeland in Yonkers, New York, in 1907. Bakelite was patented on December 7, 1909.

The creation of a synthetic plastic was revolutionary for its electrical nonconductivity and heat-resistant properties in electrical insulators, radio and telephone casings and such diverse products as kitchenware, jewelry, pipe stems, children's toys, and firearms."

Excerpt from Wikiapedia - go here for the full article

Bakelite Coaster

Fibrotta

Made of compressed wood pulp, information regarding Fibrotta is limited. Please contact us if you know more. We did find the following:

"The United Indurated Fibre Company ("UIFC") was founded in the Niagara County, New York town of Lockport. By a process of pulp compression they could create a moldable material that would retain its shape. After being varnished, the molded piece would be water resistant and could tolerate temperature extremes."

Internet research shows this material primarily being used in wood pulp serving pieces, such as bowls and water pitchers. It is also referenced as being used of fire brigade buckets, as the water did not soak into the bucket and make it as heavy.

Fibrotta Detail