Merriam Extremely Rare ca. 1876 Tin Lithographed Horse Cart with Bell *PENDING*

Merriam Extremely Rare ca. 1876 Tin Lithographed Horse Cart with Bell

We have for you this extremely rare ca. 1876 tin lithographed horse cart with chimes and cast iron wheels that was manufactured by the Merriam Manufacturing Company of Durham, Connecticut.

This early American piece has lithographed patriotic flags around the roller part of the cart, and when rolled forward the chimes tinkle melodically.

This piece is in good 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 is to be expected from age and play. It is approximately 10 ½” L. We invite you to view the photos to further determine quality and condition.

A brief history of Merriam Manufacturing Company of Durham, Connecticut:

1851 – 1880s

Founder: L.T. Merriam

Merriam Manufacturing Company of Durham, Connecticut was founded on January 25^th, 1851 by L.T. Merriam and its first directors including Merriam were Miles Merwin Jr., Samuel Newton, William Wadsworth, and Enos Rodgers. In approximately 1853 Merriam’s connection with the business was terminated, but the company retained the name.  The company specialized in tin toys and japanned and stamped tinware of various types. Enameled tinplate clockwork toys. Continues today as a box manufacturer; ceased toy production in the 1880s. Known for such classics as “Horse on Sculptured Base”, patented by William A. Hardwood, Brooklyn, New York, plus “Rabbit in Hoop”. The success of the business was somewhat varied and the eventual end of the company is very hazy.