Bustin Babe's Barnstorming Poster

[Oldtix]

"Fast and cheap" was the general rule for production of outdoor signs. That usually mean using stock design signs, where the images and hype were done by the tour organizer. The local printer would add the location, date and ticket information in a blank space specifically left for that information. In this case, the entire design is customized to Flint...that would be a red flag.

The tour dates couldn't be finalized until the World Series ended. The tour started on the 10th. In Flint, the goal would have been to get the signs up as fast as possible to alert the locals. The photo of the pair in their special uniforms was obviously not taken in a studio ahead of the tour; it was taken after it began. That raises two issues: (1) why wait for photos and (2) why select a photo with a third person pictured? Doesn't make sense.

Finally, if a sign is weatherbeaten, it isn't likely to have neat pinholes in the corners. Signs were usually nailed up to survive the elements, and when removed the holes would be far more ragged than pinholes. Rips and tears would be more typical in exposed posters like this.

Another of those "too good to be true" situations.