Arcade Rare ca. 1930’s No. 202 Cast Iron Green Wrecker Tow Truck *SOLD*

Arcade Rare ca. 1930’s No. 202 Cast Iron Green Wrecker Tow Truck  

We have for you this very desirable and rare, ca. 1930’s cast-iron no. 202 tow truck in green that was manufactured by the Arcade Manufacturing Company of Freeport, Illinois.  

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 rope on the boom is a period replacement. Then hook is not original, but we may have a hook coming for this.   

Our example of this Arcade cast-iron tow truck is in great all original condition with no breaks, repairs, restorations or touch ups (other than those mentioned above). 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 is approximately 6 ¾” 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.