#44 • Collection of Original Kentucky Fried Chicken Printing Blocks

Part of The Colonel Sanders Artifact Collection (live auction by The Menish Group Auction & Real Estate)

High bid $2,100.00

Status: Sold

Description Collection of original Kentucky Fried Chicken printing blocks used in the production of promotional and advertising materials. The group includes multiple engraved printing blocks mounted on wooden bases, featuring a variety of Kentucky Fried Chicken-related images, logos, promotional graphics, and Colonel Harland Sanders likenesses. Several blocks retain visible KFC branding and advertising copy, while others depict product packaging, promotional layouts, and graphic elements intended for commercial printing. The printing blocks are housed in a labeled storage box identifying the contents as "Original Kentucky Fried Chicken Printing Blocks." Historical Significance Before the widespread adoption of digital publishing and computerized graphic design, printing blocks were essential tools used in the creation of advertising materials, menus, promotional pieces, newspaper advertisements, direct mail campaigns, and restaurant marketing collateral. These original blocks represent the physical production methods behind Kentucky Fried Chicken's advertising efforts during a period of rapid growth and brand expansion. They offer a rare glimpse into the creative and mechanical processes used to build one of the world's most recognizable restaurant brands. Story & Context Long before advertisements could be designed and distributed digitally, individual printing blocks were engraved, inked, and incorporated into printing layouts to reproduce images and text. Each block served as a working production tool within the advertising process. This collection preserves a behind-the-scenes aspect of Kentucky Fried Chicken's history, documenting how the company's marketing materials were physically produced. The presence of Colonel Sanders imagery and branded promotional elements directly connects the group to the visual identity that helped establish Kentucky Fried Chicken's international recognition. Preserved among the Sanders-related materials maintained by the Settle family, these blocks survived as tangible artifacts of the company's advertising and promotional operations. Provenance From the preserved collection associated with Colonel Harland Sanders and Claudia Sanders, maintained by the Settle family following their acquisition of Blackwood Hall and the Claudia Sanders Dinner House directly from Colonel and Claudia Sanders in 1974. Condition Blocks exhibit wear, oxidation, ink residue, surface scratches, handling wear, and age-related toning consistent with commercial use and long-term storage. Storage box exhibits wear and discoloration. Contents sold as found. Quantity and specific designs vary within the lot.