The coin collector.
This first item is made of mixed metals and has slots on the top and connectors on the sides. Any idea what it was used for back in the day?
If you thought it was a coin collector, you’re absolutely right! Train and bus conductors used to drop the fares into the slots, and then they could retrieve the neatly stacked coins from the bottom. The hooks on the sides allowed them to attach it to their belts. Surprisingly, a modern version of this is still used in a few places where payment is not required upon entry. Pretty clever, right?
The Sand-Filled Swim Cap.
Nice blue-lined hat with chin straps and a feminine pattern. Care to guess? Hint: It’s sand-filled!
This odd headgear is an early handcrafted swim cap. Swim hats were often modelled by aviatrix styles in the 1920’s. Rubber supplies were scarce for home sewers. Ingenious solution: machine-sewn channels and stitching, and a sand-filled top. Why sand? It blocks water and lets swimmers select their fabric instead of black or yellow rubber. Very innovative approach!
Iron flu dumper.
Now look at this two-sided stamped iron object. An iron plate swivels on a spiraling iron post. Any ideas?
It was an iron flue damper, as you suspected! Despite their rarity, iron-flue dampers are still used. Antique shopping is fun because we find intriguing historical artefacts. Like going back in time!
Victorian Shop Dispenser.
Look at this gold-sketched metal box with a bevelled glass front. It even has a little dog-themed sliding door. I think it was used for what?
This lovely box is a Victorian shop dispenser. It was meant for bulk sales and had several sizes. This one has a gunpowder label insert, but it might have been used for sugar, sweets, or other bulk goods. The glass front showed clients the quality of the items. Why the hunting dog photo? It’s only a decoration, as it’s used to hold gunpowder. Interesting piece, huh?
The Cedar Butter Churn.
This huge wooden drum has a lid, handle, and foot. A side crank is included. Any views on its purpose?
The drum is a cedar butter churn. It produced more butter. The opposite side reads “Farm Master Dairy Supplies.” We didn’t want to give it away too easy! Learning about these archaic tools transports us back to simpler times.
Soda bottle stand.
Look at this three-tiered metal stand with notches. It has three legs and is four feet tall. Can you guess its purpose?
This booth displays soda bottles, but not just any drink. It was designed by Nehi for their soda bottles for promotion. The bottles’ handy necks fit perfectly in the triangle shape and notches. Corner shops and grocery stores had these stalls during the Depression. They were impressive!
