PHONOGRAPH DANCING TOYS

Phonograph dancing dolls and toys were first introduced in the early
1900's, primarily by the National Toy Company in Boston, Mass. These
amusing toys have become very collectible and originals are very scarce
and some extremely rare. The most popular of the dancing dolls is perhaps
RAGTIME RASTUS, first produced in about 1915. He tap dances on a wooden
platform with the power mechanism attached to the phonograph spindle.
Other toys which operate on the same mechanism include SHIMANDY,
THE BOXERS, and the rarely found FIGHTING COCKS. The National Toy
Company also made the MAGNETIC DANCERS which perform three ballroom
type dances at the edge of the turntable.

Unquestionably the ultimate phonograph dancing doll was SIAM SOO produced
by Morton E. Converse & Son Co. of Winchendon, Mass. The mechanism
attaches to the phongraph spindle and SIAM SOO dances over the turntable
while the record plays. She was patented in 1909 and was distributed
by the Columbia Graphophone Company.

Reproductions of these wonderful toys have been produced by Charlie Weatherbee since 1983. This series of phonograph novelties are quality hand crafted and purposely varied from the originals. These variations are intended to distinguish them from the originals which command premium prices. Since original toys have become very scarce these reproductions will undoubtedly become collectible themselves.

They are are a delightful accessory for any vintage phonograph owner as well as the serious collector. Their amusing action enhances the enjoyment of listening to and displaying your old phonograph. Young and old alike will be captivated by the humorous action of these attrctive toys.

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Ragtime Rastus

This terpsichorean artist is of wood construction and stands about 5 inches tall. He's hand crafted and painted in the original colors of yellow, black and red. His lively tap dance on top of the power mechanism is a remarkable exhibition to behold.

This imaginative performer is of wood construction and stands about 5 inches tall. He's hand crafted and painted a patriotic red, white, and blue. His right arm is s hinged and he appears to play his banjo while tap dancing.

This delightful dancer is of wood and steel spring construction about 6 inches tall. Hand made and painted with a flower patterned dress and felt hat. Her movements are very intresting and lifelike due to her spring construction. Her head tilts and rotates with her arms moving up and down when she dances.

Email or call for pricing and availability Email: Charlie Weatherbee
2120 The Crescent
Clermont, FL 34711
(352) 394-3971