dren's Fersornal Scales r~194o'd-J
by Jim & Merlyn Collings
Most personal children's scales or shorter scales are uncom-
mon and somewhat scarce. (Photo I) shows three children's
scales and two adult scales for height comparison. The scales
pictured in (Photo 1) are two Fairbanks Morse scales and
three Rock-Ola LoBoys. (Photo 2) shows the full length shot
of the Fairbanks bar or beam scale. The shorter Fairbanks bur-
gandy bar scales stands 33.5'' in height. The copper colored
adult counter-part stands 44" in height. (Photo 3) shows the
close-up of the two Fairbanks scales. The adult scale called the
"valet" has many additional features than the child's version.
Besides obtaining weight the adult "valet" had a hook for the
tie and belt, the pant hanger in front, the shirt and coat hanger
rack in back and the tray in front of for wallet, keys and pocket
watch. This adult "valet" was often found in the home in the
master bathroom or bedroom. The smaller scale was made
for "junior". The child's beam scale was made available for
children to encourage good health habits and was ideal for
home use. The Fairbanks scales were made of metal and came
in a variety of colors. It has a ribbon column head and also had
a Fairbanks Morse name plate on the column. These beam
scales were on free play.
Another beam scale was made in England. (Photo 4) The
Avery child's Doctor scale is cast iron and measures weight in
pounds and English stone. It is 36" in height and is on free
play. It was painted in different colors.
The Rock-Ola Co. of Chicago manufactured a child's scale
which is only 33.5" in height. Pictured in (Photo 5) are two
of these smaller scales. One in Depression green (which is ex-
tremely rare) and the other in light blue. These cast iron Rock-
Ola LoBoy scales operated on one cent. These machines were
porcelainated in several colors. Refer to C.O.C.A. TIMES,
Vol. 6 (No. 2005) titled THREE PERSONAL SCALES." The
term LoBoywas given to many short scales in the 1930's and
still persists today".
In 1939 the Hanson Scale Co. of Chicago produced a penny
scale as well. This shorter 36" scale in (Photo 6) was used in
Health related clubs. The round dial is called a "Health Dial".
(Photo 7) shows another Hanson scale with a "special order"
emblem attached to the white porcelain column. This "Red
Goose Shoes" scale was reportedly found in a deserted depart-
ment store in the shoe department. We would like to thank
a fellow collector Charles Kemp for his "Red Goose Shoes"
photo and information.
The children's scales were placed in the following locations:
shoe stores, Dr.'s offices, rest rooms, department stores, train
stations, arcades, amusement parks, grocery stores, home use
and other high traffic areas.
We would like to thank Jeff Storck for his continual help
and advice.
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