Arcade Cast Iron Tandem Fire Ladder Engine Truck Pairing *SOLD*

Arcade Cast Iron Tandem Fire Ladder Engine Truck Pairing

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

The white and black rubber tires are still intact, but as per usual with toys of this age they may have petrified, discolored, warped and/or cracked. The ladders are a replacement. This is a pairing between two Arcade fire ladder trucks, so the front and back are from different toys from Arcade.

This piece is in 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, and wear that are to be expected from age and play. This is approximately 16″ 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.