Last week, we talked about the very first U.S. trademark – Averill Ready-Mix Paint. This week, let’s look at another piece of trademark history that’s still alive and kicking (or maybe wrestling) today.
Meet Samson: A Trademark with Staying Power
The honor of the oldest U.S. trademark still in continuous use belongs to a mark first registered in 1884.
- Applied for: April 7, 1884
- Issued: May 27, 1884
- Owner: J.P. Tolman Company
- Goods: Cords, lines, twines, and ropes
The trademark? A logo depicting the Biblical figure Samson wrestling a lion—a perfect symbol of strength and durability.
From J.P. Tolman to Samson Rope Technologies
What began with the J.P. Tolman Company has endured for well over a century. Today, the mark is still in use by Samson Rope Technologies, Inc., a leader in high-performance rope manufacturing. It’s remarkable when you think about it – through industrial revolutions, world wars, and the digital age, this trademark has stood the test of time. While logos, companies, and industries have changed, Samson’s image of strength has stayed relevant.
Why It Matters
Most businesses don’t last five years, let alone 140. But the Samson trademark shows just how powerful brand recognition can be. It’s not just a picture of a man and a lion – it’s a promise of toughness, reliability, and quality that has outlasted generations of competitors. That’s the magic of a well-protected and well-maintained trademark: it preserves the reputation of a business across centuries.
Fun Fact Friday Takeaway
The oldest U.S. trademark still in use was registered in 1884 – and it wasn’t for food, fashion, or furniture. It was for rope. The image of Samson wrestling a lion continues to represent strength today, just as it did nearly 150 years ago. Trademarks aren’t just about protecting logos – they’re about protecting a legacy that can last for centuries.
This post is for informational purposes only and does not provide legal advice. You should contact an attorney for advice concerning any particular issue or problem. Nothing herein creates an attorney-client relationship between TM Law & Associates and the reader.
