June 2021 update: We have found a source for the famous Sundrella 701 aluminum umbrella: ParknPool.com, a company based in Virginia.
After a tip from a reader, I called up ParknPool, and indeed, their sales manager confirmed they have the umbrella for sale and that it has been in their lineup for while. I think I must have missed the source before because they call it the 701 Aluminum Umbrella with no mention of Sundrella, the name we retro vintage shoppers know this by.
It’s great to know these are still out there and available!
Some details from ParknPool’s website:
The 701 Aluminum Umbrella has been manufactured since 1956. It is virtually indestructible. Style and science come together in this Aluminum Umbrella. Aerodynamically designed, their strength is in the patented swivels which make them virtually topple proof and leave them standing in the wind.
Each umbrella is constructed with a sturdy 7 ft diameter tubular frame with aluminum alloy braces and ribs for lasting durability.
Designed to fit any standard table with a center hole, the umbrellas 1-1/2″ mast pipe locks into a furnished PVC ground sleeve.
Virtually maintenance free, these Aluminum Umbrellas are as dramatically beautiful as they are durable. An array of baked enamel colors in many hues permit creative combinations in an endless variety.
The umbrella canopy is made up of 40 aluminum vanes, powder coated to your choice of colors.
Assembly is required.
Made in the USA.
ParknPool told me that the umbrellas are still being made by the same Phoenix supplier. Next time I’m in Phoenix for Arizona Tiki Oasis, I need to go visit. I would love to see how these circa-1956 beauties are made!
History of the Sundrella 701 aluminum umbrella, from my original story in 2009:
The company that manufactures the Sundrella (yes, with a “d”) has been based in Phoenix since 1956 — when it got started building this very same 701 aluminum umbrella. In fact, according to a manager that I spoke with in 2009, the company built only 701 umbrellas for the next 22 years, until 1978, when the current owners bought the company.
How to buy a Sundrella 701 aluminum umbrella:
- You can shop for these on Park n Pool. Thanks, ParknPool, for your help with this story!
Ryan F says
I recently purchased two of these through Diane. $800+ each. There was a lead time of over 3 months after I finally was able to place the order. Required quite a bit of follow-up (phone calls and emails) to keep the process moving forward. There are only a handful of colors for the alternating stripes. I purchased mine completely white, removed every other slat, spray painted both sides orange and reinstalled. They look awesome. I recommend installing the pole in a cored hole in concrete paving/patio/pool deck as opposed to a regular umbrella base. You’ll need a really heavy expensive umbrella base to support the umbrella adequately.
Pam Kueber says
Thanks for sharing your experience, Ryan. I recommend that readers ask the company for its mounting recommendations / specifications, but will leave your thoughts up here to raise awareness about ensuring the umbrellas are properly secured.
DJ Sparkles says
I could get a turquoise one for by the pond!
Depending on price. I’d take any color if I could score one for $25 like the lucky June!
Joe Felice says
Must have stripes! Never saw one without.
Mary Oles says
Stayed at a little motel in Ocala, Fl. They had them all around their pool area. So cool!
Pam Kueber says
Now we can look for them everywhere we go!
june cahill says
I live in Tucson – and have found 2 ‘in the wild’ – one at Gerson’s – a local architectural salvage place, the other while driving by a Sal Army – both were $25 —- the most daunting was trying to get them home – I had to borrow my friend’s truck and was terrified it’d would fly out above and then onto the road like a flying saucer! They’re both on opposite sides of our backyard (I think our backyard landscape layout was designed by an ‘OCD engineer’ as each side mirrors the other with a huge rectangular pool right in the middle! My umbrellas are different colors – one is brown/tan; the other is blue/tan, but since they’re not right next to eachother – who cares? They make me smile! 🙂
Pam Kueber says
WOWOWOW, what great finds! They cost considerably more than $25 today! Were yours in great shape?
Craig says
Pam,
As a lifetime Arizona resident, these were all over the place for quite a while and can still be seen around town. In fact,there is one about 100 ft from my office window. I could walk over and take a few snaps if you like. I frequently contemplate finding one for my 1955 ranch house.
Pam Kueber says
Sure! Take some photos and email to me — I’d love to add them! retrorenovation@gmail.com
Primrose Road says
Do you havr a price range?
Pam Kueber says
Hi Primrose, I’ve asked the company … meanwhile if you’re interested, reach out to them directly.
Robin, WA says
Pam, can you find out what colors are available?
Pam Kueber says
Hi Robin, over on the original site (the production site) there is a tool that lets you play with color options: http://www.azumbrellas.com/umbrella-color-options/
I’ll check to see if this is still all relevant. Super fun to play with e.g.:
CarolK says
These Sundrellas make me remember the Tastee Freeze in my dad’s hometown. It was a frequent summer evening destination when we’d visit my grandparents 50 years ago.
Ms. Vel-Vida says
It’s great to know these are still being made. I always thought they were so cool when I’d see them around motel pools (along with brightly colored plastic papasan chairs) in the Lake George area and other Adirondack establishments like ice cream stands and convenience stores. I think one of the Stewart’s in Colonie even has a couple at their picnic tables.