Arcade ca. 1930’s Cast Iron Allis-Chalmers #265 Tractor for Sale

Arcade ca. 1930’s Cast Iron Allis-Chalmers #265 Tractor

We have for you this ca. 1936 cast iron “Allis-Chalmers” tractor model #265 that was manufactured by the Arcade Manufacturing Company of Freeport, Illinois.

This is a two-piece cast iron construction where the halves are held together with a riveted steel rod in the center. Both the tractor and the trailer have rubber “Arcade Balloon” tires. The white rubber tires are still intact, but as per usual with toys of this age they may have petrified, discolored, warped and/or cracked. The wheels, as with many cast iron toys are a bit loose and wobbly, and appear to have been glued in some places on the axles. The headlights on this are both broke off, but it still looks pretty good without them. 

Our example of this tractor is in fair all original condition with no restorations or touch ups. This piece shows the usual dust, fading patina, chips, scuffs, scratches, surface rusting and wear that are to be expected from age and play. This came in two sizes this one is approximately 5″ L. 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.