87 King Street

Philco Radios

Founded in 1892 as the Helios Electric Company, the Philco brand name didn’t appear in market until 1925 when they released a rectifier unit that allowed people to convert their battery operated devices into plug-in electronics. In 1928, the company introduced their own line of radios to the market. Within two years, they became North America’s leading radio manufacturer, holding that title for 24 consecutive years.

In 1961, the Ford Motor Company acquired Philco and rebranded the products as Philco-Ford in 1966. With dwindling sales, the company was sold several times in the 70s and 80s, eventually being marketed under the Norelco brand name in 1981.

This sign was painted between 1928 and 1942 when tenant Great West Electric occupied 87 King Street.