Harvey the Rabbit’s History 

In 1959, Ed Harvey founded Harvey Boat Works Inc.. In need of a corporate marketing theme, he chose the image of "Harvey the Rabbit” inspired from the 1950s film “Harvey”, starring Jimmy Stewart. Harvey has served as the company's mascot for over 60 years in the marine business.

In the late 1960s, a customer offered Ed the chance to acquire a rare "Texaco Big Friend" statue. These 24-foot-tall fiberglass figures were a popular marketing tool for Texaco in the mid 60s, with only a handful surviving today. The waving giant stood outside Harvey Marine in Aloha, Oregon until 1974, when a unique transformation took place. Its head was replaced with that of a rabbit, becoming the first "Harvey the Rabbit" statue.

While the initial rabbit head was somewhat “rough around the edges”, it delighted passersby, who often honked and waved. Over the years, Harvey has undergone a couple transformations, repairs from vandals, and different paint and color combinations. Harvey received a new head in 1988 which it retains to this day. Harvey has also been adorned with various costumes and decorations for holidays and special occasions, including Christmas Trees, Valentine's balloons, Fourth of July fireworks, and Girl Scout Cookie promotions.

Harvey was completely repainted in 2024 and will be moved slightly, in order to build a new sidewalk and allow for renovations to the 1880s building.

Additional information and never been seen before photos will be added in the future.