The Swing Shift Shuffle is a radio program of swing, big band, jazz, boogie woogie and other popular music from the 1930's and 40's that airs every Wednesday from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. (US Central Time) on WEVL 89.9 FM in Memphis, Tennessee, with a live webcast at wevl.org. In addition to the radio show, this blog is dedicated to all aspects of the Swing Era, including art, automobiles, cartoons, comics, history, movies, music, news, science, technology, and anything else that happened during that time. It also includes announcements about events in the Memphis/Mid-South area related to the Swing Era, such as classic movies, concerts, dances, lectures, etc. If you see something that fits the description, send it to me at tim@wevl.org. If you would like more information about the radio show, just go to the Radio Show FAQ page.

Monday, August 20, 2018

Late 1940's View-Master Viewer With Discs

At a recent estate sale, I came across the above item.  Other than realizing it was an early View-Master viewer, and having seen one belonging to my niece just a few months ago, I did not have much information about it.  Since it came with about 25 slide discs, most of which had copyright dates around 1946, it was cool, and the price was right, I picked it up.

My research has now revealed that it is a (probably) late 1940's or early 1950's Sawyer View-Master Model C.  There is an article on Collector's Weekly relating the origin and history of the View-Master, including its contribution to the war effort during World War II. 

It appears the Bakelite Model C is relatively indestructible, so inexpensive examples can be found in perfect working order.  I have not been able to view all the discs yet, but most are scenic views of U.S. National Parks, along with an early clay-model version of Goldilocks, and a few Hopalong Cassidy discs.  I've already enjoyed having it in my collection.    

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