There’s nothing like a vintage pennant or flag to rile up the emotions. Whether the pennant is hanging up in your favorite watering hole (like Coles on Elmwood) or in your den, each one tells a story about who hung it, and why. From the skull and crossbones to an IVY League school (originally named “IV” for the first four schools to join – Harvard, Yale, Princeton and Dartmouth), pennants are signals or markers that evoke pride, and sometimes controversy. You throw a name or a symbol onto a pennant, and it suddenly changes the context into something more permanent, more meaningful. A pennant is a source of pride. It’s like waving a flag and saying, “This is what I believe in!”
Some pennants are funny. Some are cryptic. Some are in your face. Some say where people are from. Others say where they are going.
Did you ever stop to consider who makes all of the pennants that you see around town today. Well, there are a few pennant manufacturers, but did you know that there is a boutique business right here in Buffalo? Yup, it’s called Oxford Pennant, and it specializes in vintage style pennants and flags. The business stocks a number of best sellers and featured items, all made right here in the US. It also fulfills custom orders that are actually affordable.
Founded in 2013, Oxford Pennant is a”designer and manufacturer of vintage wool and cotton pennants that are inspired by American sports traditions
For the first time ever, this pennant and flag business is launching a pop-up presence, starting tomorrow (Saturday, November 26) at 43 West Tupper beginning at noon. Stop on by and stock up on a locally made pennant or two for the holidays. You won’t want to miss this chance to check out the inventory first hand. Come see why so many people are returning to these retro roots – instead of wearing their beliefs on their sleeves, they are once again hanging them on their walls.
Photos: Oxford Pennant