Arcade Rare Large Red Cast Iron Tandem Fire Engine Ladder Truck #1947 *SOLD*

Arcade Rare Large Red Cast Iron Tandem Fire Engine Ladder Truck #1947

We have for you this rare, large, red, cast iron two-piece tandem fire engine ladder truck #1947 “Fire Trailer Truck” that was manufactured by the Arcade Manufacturing Company of Freeport, Illinois. This toy ca. 1940 can be found in the Arcade Cast Iron Toys Catalog #58: The World of Tomorrow 1940 on pg. 5 

The white rubber tires are still intact in excellent condition, but as per usual with toys of this age they have petrified and cracked. The blue painted hubs have faded and flaked off over time. The decals are in great condition with the usual chipping, scratches, and fading.

This Arcade cast iron tandem fire engine ladder truck is in excellent all original condition with no breaks, restorations, repairs, or touch ups. This piece shows the usual patina, dust, chips, scuffs, surface rust, scratches, and wear that are to be expected from age and play. The truck is approximately 16 ¼” L (w/ladders it is 20” L) x 2 ¾” W x 4 ½” H. We invite you to view the photos to further determine quality and condition. 

 

 

A brief history of Arcade Manufacturing Company of Freeport, Illinois: 

 The Arcade Manufacturing Company of Freeport, Illinois was originally founded as Novelty Iron Works by Edward H. and Charles Morgan in 1868, and conducted business in two small buildings with a staff of ten people. 

The company operated between the years 1868 to 1946. They began making toys and coffee mills and then moved to a new site in 1893 (after fires, financial issues, and changing their name from Novelty Iron Works). 

Arcade toy catalogs appear to start at 1902 and as late as 1939. Arcade`s toy line included over 300 toy items. Yellow Cab was their first successful toy followed by Andy Gump in 348 and Chester Gump in His Pony Cart. Arcade also made toy banks, doll house furniture, and cast-iron penny toys.