Arcade Cast Iron Fire Engine Ladder Truck *SOLD*

Arcade Cast Iron Fire Engine Ladder Truck 

We have for you this cast iron fire engine ladder truck that was manufactured by the Arcade Manufacturing Company of Freeport, Illinois.     

This is the same casting as the 1940’s #1820 but with black rubber tires. The black rubber tires are still intact and in good condition, but as per usual with toys of this age, they may have petrified, discolored, warped, and/or cracked.  We did not notice any issues and the wheels roll as they should.  

This piece is in very good to great all original condition with no breaks, restorations, repairs, or touch-ups. This piece shows the usual patina, fading, dust, chips, scuffs, surface rust, scratches, missing accessories, and wear that are to be expected from age and play. This is approximately 7″ 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 in 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, dollhouse furniture, and cast-iron penny toys.