In the final entry in this series, Simon Johnson examines another mechanical device in the Te Manawa collection: the spud gun. Where it arose, how it was marketed, and some of the controversy that swirls around toys of this nature.
Simon Johnson explores the background of a mechanical zebra toy in the Te Manawa collection. This toy and many like it once dominated European toy markets in the first half of the 20th century - but now they are rare items.
As empires rise, so they too must fall. Simon Johnson follows up on his Mechanics Made Easy post by tracing the history of Meccano from post-war to the present day. One item in the heritage collection at Te Manawa is a landmark for the brand’s struggle to survive in an increasingly crowded market.
The heritage collection at Te Manawa contains many curiosities. Inspired by an example of “Mechanics Made Easy”, local historian Simon Johnson charts the rise of Meccano and the toy empire of engineering entrepreneur Frank Hornby.
Phone: +64 (06) 355-5000
0800-4-A-MUSEUM
Email: enquiries@temanawa.co.nz
Te Manawa Museum
326 Main Street
Private Bag 11055
Palmerston North, 4442
Aotearoa New Zealand
Every day: 10am – 5.00pm
(Opens 1pm Anzac Day)
(Closed Good Friday, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.)
Free general entry.
Donations appreciated
Charges may apply to some exhibitions/programmes.
