Bert Montgomery Salyer Jr. arrived in Oklahoma City in 1934 and built a chain of over 35 retail gasoline stations across Oklahoma and surrounding states from nothing. His economy product was re-refined motor oil — and he put one of the most striking label designs in Oklahoma petroliana on it. The Sooner Queen. A cowgirl kneeling beside a campfire, a Hereford calf, rolling plains. A comparable can sold at Morphy's Hershey auction in October 2024 for $6,150. Now it's on a tank.
Light and airy unisex tank with a relaxed vintage surf fit. Soft fabric, comfortable drop armholes, easy unisex sizing. DTG printed. Machine wash cold, tumble dry low. Available in Athletic Heather, Black, Dark Grey, and White — XS through 2XL.
Salyer Refining Company operated from 1934 through the early 1950s out of Oklahoma City. The Sooner Queen re-refined motor oil brand was their economy line — reclaimed, cleaned, and resold at a time when postwar motorists needed cheap lubrication and independent refiners needed a way to compete against the majors. The can's cowgirl-and-campfire design is documented in major petroliana auction records. Most cans were thrown away. This one wasn't — and now the label lives on.
The perfect gift for the Oklahoma history collector, the petroliana enthusiast who knows the Salyer story, the western Americana fan, or anyone who wants a rare piece of Oklahoma oil history on something they'll wear on warm days and open roads.
The Faded Label Co. — keeping the golden age of American roadside art alive, one product at a time.
