Manufacturer McClary Manufacturing

Minature Tin Western Fair Shovel

DateLate 19th Century

Credit LineGift of Dr. J. Malcolm Smith, London, Ontario, 1999

Object number1999.003.071

Label TextRepresentatives of the McClary Manufacturing Company distributed this souvenir miniature tin shovel at a late 19th century Western Fair. The company, established in 1852, displayed its wares at the first Provincial Fair in London in 1854. From that year forward, the Fair provided the company with lots of opportunity to build customer loyalty, foster brand recognition, and highlight its diverse product line. The McClary Manufacturing Company made this scoop. In 1852, John McClary (1829-1921) and his older brother Oliver (ca. 1818-1902) opened J. & O. McClary, a tinsmith shop in London. Over the years, the McClary Manufacturing, Company produced a vast array of high-quality items, including cast iron stoves, copper kettles, and decorative enamelware. The company took advantage of every opportunity to trumpet the quality and range of their products. From match holders to ashtrays to toys, their goods reminded customers of the McClary name and reputation. In 1927, the McClary Manufacturing Company merged with four others to become General Steel Wares. Its London plant closed in the mid-1970s.

NameScoop