Collections record Beta

Mechanical bank

2016-52-3

Cast iron mechanical bank featuring a boy (or jockey) with a stick and a mule. Rectangular base with rounded corners that taper towards the top, painted red with gold and black borders. The top of the base is painted green and sculpted to resemble grass. On the base is a seated boy (possibly African American) with a stick, yellow shirt, pointed cap, and blue pants. Standing in front of the boy is a mule with a black harness and red and yellow saddle. In front of the mule's back-left leg is a switch that activates the mechanism, spinning the mule and raising its back legs to kick the boy, who falls backwards. No visible coin slot. Raised lettering on the base reads "ALWAYS DID 'SPISE A MULE." Imprinted on bottom of base "PAT APR 27 1897."

Displayed and occasionally used in Sheldon Tavern by donor's husband's family.

• J & E Stevens Co.

c.1897

Height 6.25", Width 10.25", Depth 2.75"

• paint
• cast iron