C.O.C.A. Times

had turned this rare Electro-Vendor into a baseball ma-
chine. Not so! Dick Beushel looked at my example
and later confirmed in his book on Jennings machines
that, indeed, Jennings advetiised in its old marketing
literature that my baseball variation was available as an
Electro-Vendor option. The Electro-Vendor appeared in
an ad in the July, 1930 issue of Automatic Age on page
9. It was described as "different" and "offering some-
thing new" and " intended to be operated with no value
amusement checks". "No value amusement checks"?
You have got to be kidding! The machine stands 48"
tall, 16" wide and 16" deep.
As you can guess, since this machine is in my book,
it tells a story, beginning when I got a tip from Mike
Gorski many years ago. Mike knew of my thirst for
unique baseball machines and mentioned that a very
"strange" slot machine might be available near Yellow-
stone National Park. I contacted the owner and made
a deal, sight unseen, something I rarely do. Another
friend, partner "B.P." Pierce offered to haul it to Chi-
cagoland on his way back from a trip that had taken
him right past the park. We both got a surprise. "B.P."
was surprised one way when he discovered the size and
weight of this gem that almost consumed all available
space in his mini van. I'll never forget the "joy" on his
face as we unloaded it at the show. I was surprised in
a more positive way, as I could not believe the " look"
and condition of my new find. I immediately hugged
"B.P.", forgetting that he doesn't like to be hugged.
Of all the machines in my baseball collection, the
Electro-Vendor has attracted the most interest from col-
lectors. Author and baseball expert, Dr. Mark Cooper
considers it one of the finest baseball coin-operated ma-
chines he has ever seen.
I offer two tips for those who own or are thinking
of purchasing an Electro-Vendor. First, the legs are ve-
neered with a walnut finish and very fragile, so do not
"scoot" the machi ne when moving it. Pick it up and
set it down . Also, as discussed above, the motors for
these machines were "works in progress" as Jennings
improved and refined them. Do not overplay or other-
wise "tax" the motors. Keep them well oiled and check
for faulty wiring. Smoke does not help the look of these
gems.
Over the years these Electro-Vendors have become
quite popular and have increased in value, particularly
when in good original condition.
Thank you, Mike and "B.P.".
Now Available at
Victorian Casino
Antiques
$75 .00
Tom Gustwiller's
"REEL AMUSEMENT"
A Must Have Full Color Book!
To Order by Mail , Please Send
($75.00 + $5.00 Sh ipping) to :
Tom Gustwiller
116 West Main St.
Ottawa , Ohio 45875
Take a look al ou,
Rew Web,ile!
www.bocatradingpost.com
954 .650 .7826
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