AC Williams ca. 1930’s Red Cast Iron “Wrecker” #3468 with Hook & Rubber Tires Tow Truck Toy *SOLD*

AC Williams Red Cast Iron “Wrecker” #3468 with Hook & Rubber Tires Tow Truck Toy

We have for you this ca. 1930’s red cast iron toy “wrecker” tow truck with hook and rubber tires, model #3468 that was manufactured by A.C. Williams Co. of Ravenna, Ohio.

This is a two-piece cast iron construction where the halves are held together with a riveted steel rod in the center. The tow hook, wheels and axles appear to be nickel plated cast iron. The bright colorful toy wrecker is very sturdy and well-built. The rubber wheels are all original and great condition. Embossed on the inside right it says “X 5 ½” and “3468” on the inside left it says “2X”

These toys came in assorted red, blue, green and tan bodies. With nickel plated Windlass and rubber tires. Our example of this wrecker is in great all original condition with no restorations, repairs, breaks or touch ups. This piece shows the usual patina, chips, scuffs, scratches, surface rusting and wear that are to be expected from age and play. It is approximately 6” x 2 ½”. This is a very desirable and hard to find cast iron toy  and would be a great addition to any cast iron collection. We invite you to view the photos to further determine quality and condition.

A brief history of A.C. Williams Co. of Ravenna, Ohio:

The A. C. Williams Company was founded in business in Chagrin Falls, Ohio in 1844. It was founded by John Wesley Williams, the father of A. C. Williams. However there was a big fire at the company, and a decision was made to move to Ravenna. Ohio. Actual production started there in 1893.

Like the other famous cast iron companies of the time (Hubley, Dent, Kilgore, Arcade, Kenton), A.C. Williams manufactured cast iron cars and trucks.  From 1893 to 1923 they produced cast-iron horse-drawn rigs, autos, airplane, penny banks and tractor toys; the line included mostly miniatures distributed through Woolworth, Kresge`s, and other five-and-dime stores. They even produced some tin cars towards the end of the company’s relatively long history. Unfortunately, in 1938 they closed their toy production and continued in other ventures to this day.