The phrase “7 Foot Cigar Store Indian” might seem strange at first, but it holds a fascinating history rooted in American culture. These towering figures, often made of wood, once stood outside countless tobacco shops, becoming synonymous with the trade itself. But how did this association begin, and what can we learn from these silent sentinels of a bygone era?
From Wooden Warriors to Tobacco Mascots: The Evolution of an Icon
Carving of a Native American figure holding cigars
The use of figures to advertise goods dates back centuries, but the connection between Native Americans and tobacco has its roots in the early colonial period. European settlers arriving in North America quickly adopted tobacco from indigenous peoples, who had cultivated and used it for medicinal and ceremonial purposes for millennia. As tobacco became a lucrative commodity, shopkeepers needed a way to signal their wares to a largely illiterate public.
Enter the cigar store Indian. These eye-catching figures, often carved with striking features and vibrant colors, served as a powerful visual cue. Standing tall on busy streets, they transcended language barriers, instantly communicating “tobacco sold here.”
Beyond the Storefront: Examining the Symbolism and Controversy
Different styles of cigar store figures
While the cigar store Indian is the most iconic, it’s crucial to note that these figures weren’t always Native American. Shopkeepers often chose figures that reflected popular imagery of the time, including sailors, sultans, and even figures from Greek mythology. However, the Native American figure, with its perceived connection to tobacco, remained a dominant and enduring image.
This association, while commercially successful, also drew criticism. Critics argued that the figures perpetuated harmful stereotypes and reduced a diverse culture to a simplistic caricature. By the mid-20th century, changing social attitudes and the rise of anti-discrimination movements led to the decline of the cigar store indian.
“7 Foot Cigar Store Indian”: A Legacy in Words
The phrase “7 foot cigar store indian” itself speaks volumes. The specificity of “7 foot” emphasizes the imposing size of these figures, while “cigar store indian,” though now considered by many to be outdated and insensitive, still evokes a sense of nostalgia and historical curiosity.
“These figures, while problematic in their representation, offer a unique window into the visual language of advertising and the evolving social norms surrounding cultural imagery,” notes Dr. Emily Carter, a historian specializing in American material culture. “They remind us of the importance of critically examining the symbols we use and the messages they convey.”
More Than Just Wood and Paint: Remembering the Past, Shaping the Future
The legacy of the “7 foot cigar store indian” is a complex one. These figures, once ubiquitous symbols of commerce, now prompt reflection on cultural appropriation, representation, and the power of visual language. While their era as advertising icons has passed, they continue to spark conversations and offer valuable lessons in cultural sensitivity.