Reel lawn mowers used to be very very popular – remember? For many of you and especially those of you ages 12 to 40, you may know manual push reel mowers as, “that old mower my grandfather used have”. We recently discovered a fantastic and informative old magazine advertisement for The Genuine “PHILADELPHIA” Lawn Mowers. You can tell by reading the ad that reel lawn mowers once had a passionate following.
The advertisement reads:
Lawns or Links – Sun or Shade
That Grass thrives best which receives the best care and no factor plays a greater part in the development of fine lawns than does the Lawn Mower. Now, to the casual observer, all Lawn Mowers look pretty much alike. Paint and varnish, gilt lettering and fancy designs cover a multitude of Lawn Mower sins. That is why it pays to buy Mowers of known reputation. That is the reason why experienced buyers ask for The Genuine “PHILADELPHIA” Lawn Mowers.
They stand for fifty-five years of undivided efforts in one field. We originated, developed and improved, until to-day every “PHILADELPHIA” Mower is sold under the unqualified guarantee that they are of the highest standards in workmanship and materials.
Progressive Dealers the world over will show you any models. There are twenty-five styles all told, in Hand-Horse- and Motor-Mowers.
The Philadelphia Lawn Mower Company
31st and Chestnut Streets, Philadelphia, Pa., U.S.A.
1924 Philadelphia Lawn Mower Advertisement
I just happend to be doing a search to get info on my antique reel mower and discovered your article. I am trying to get a production date on the reel mower I have. My father was going to yard sale the mower, but i decided to keep it. I now have a very small back yard and decided to put it to use. It’s in great shape and would be an easy restoration. Any suggestions?
Hi Fred – Great question. Unfortunately there is not a lot of information out there about older mower models…
Try uploading a picture of it, maybe one of our readers can give you more information. We look forward to seeing it!
I have a Philadelphia Style D 1895 Lawn Mower. Its patent date is Oct. 26, 1880. Its about 14′ wide w/ cast iron wheels, solid blades with wooden main brace and wooden handles. I was trying to find out more about the Philadelphia Lawn Mower Company, but have failed. Your web site was the only one that was close. Can you tell me a little about the Company and how old this mower may be? I was told this old of a mower may have come from England. Can you help? Thanks in advance. Robert