1906 Beans Exterior Colors
32 Historically Documented Colors
This Franklin Beans Ready Mix Paint brochure, produced in January 1906 by the Lewis U. Bean Company, Philadelphia, features 32 authentic historic exterior colors. The palette reflects tones popular in early 20th-century American homes, including vermilion, sky blue, multiple shades of green, brown, and soft yellows and creams.
Formulated with linseed oil and lead/zinc pigments, these paints were intended for exterior use — durable and designed to withstand the elements while providing rich, vibrant color. The brochure clearly displays the original colors, allowing users to select shades with historic accuracy.
Note: Original sheen levels are preserved as closely as possible. Historic gloss oil colors are supplied in modern semi-gloss or satin, as true oil gloss is no longer produced.