Kingsbury Manufacturing Co. Rare ca. 1931 #1626 Tin Hand Painted Windup Bell Ringer Fire Engine Pumper Truck *SOLD*

Kingsbury Manufacturing Co. Rare ca. 1931 #1626 Tin Hand Painted Windup Bell Ringer Fire Engine Pumper Truck 

This very rare ca. 1931 depression era #1626 tin, hand painted, windup bell ringer fire engine pumper truck was manufactured in by Kingsbury Mfg. Co. (also see Wilkins Toy Co.) of Keene, New Hampshire 

This toy is quite special and seems quite basic. However, when you consider it came from the depression era when materials were scarce, you begin to understand why it is so simplistic. The black rubber tires are still intact, but as per usual with toys of this age they have petrified, warped, and cracked. The cast metal driver is original and in great condition. When the wheels are turned, the bell underneath rings. The windup mechanism works as it should, which is awesome considering how old this piece is.  

Our example of this Kingsbury #1626 fire engine pumper truck has no breaks, restorations, repairs, or touch ups that we could see. 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 toy is approximately 10 3/4″  L. This would be a great and impressive addition to any collection. We invite you to view the photos to further determine quality and condition. 

A brief history of Kingsbury Mfg. Co. (also see Wilkins Toy Co.) of Keene, New Hampshire:
 

Active: 1919 – 1942
Wilkins Toy Co.
Founder: Harry T. Kingsbury
Specialty: In 1895 Harry T. Kingsbury bought Wilkins and combined it with the Clipper Machine Works, which specialized in farm equipment. In the early 1900s, toy automobiles were introduced to the company line. The Wilkins line was dropped following WWI in favor of Kingsbury, which was by know an established name in the field. Kingsbury specialized in copying famous models of aircraft and assembly-line, trucks, and buses. WWII saw Kingsbury shifting to war contracts and never returning again to toy production. All production equipment was sold to Keystone in Boston. The company still exists, but as Kingsbury Machine Tool Division, a subcontractor for such giants as IBM, General Motors, and GE.