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Hess Riverboat, deluxe model, circa 1900 L 10.75” (27.3 cm), W 1.875” (4.8 cm), H 3.5” (8.9 cm) This was the deluxe model which included twin smoke stacks, exposed engine mechanism and paddle wheel covers. It is an early lithographed model boat which uses a flywheel friction mechanism similar to the later patented and produced “Hess Roller” toy mechanism of 1912 and later. |
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Hess Riverboat, economy model, circa 1900 L 10.75” (27.3 cm), W 1.875” (4.8 cm), H 3.5” (8.9 cm) This was the economy model which only included a single smoke stack, no exposed engine mechanism and no paddle wheel covers. It is an early lithographed model boat which uses a flywheel friction mechanism similar to the later patented and produced “Hess Roller” toy mechanism of 1912 and later. |
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Hess 1045 sailboat, circa 1900 L 11.75” (30 cm), W 2.25” (5.7 cm) without flywheel spinner, H 10.25” (26 cm) The largest of the Hess sailboats, it was equipped with two simulated sails made from paperboard. Flywheel powered, it also had an offset front wheel to simulate wave action. No markings on the body to identify maker, but D.G.R.M. is stamped on the front wheel which seems to be cast metal rather than stamped tinplate. |
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Hess 1041 sailboat, circa 1900 L 9.5” (24.3 cm), W 1.813” (4.6 cm) H 8” (20.3 cm) This paperboard sailboat was the medium size version of three boats offered by Hess. Flywheel powered, it also had an offset front wheel to simulate wave action when rolled. No markings other than “1041” lithographed on both sides and “D.G.R.M.” and “Eng. Patent” stamped on the tinplate front wheel. |
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Hess Riverboat Variations Some variations from the standard model riverboat include smokestack differences and the addition of a bell. Whether these wooden smokestacks were fabricated and installed by some previous owner or were factory variations is unclear. Only one variation with wooden smokestacks has been observed. Metal finials on the smokestacks have only been observed on this one example. The bell has been observed on a couple of different examples and is probably factory installed, although rare to find. The bell striker is triggered by the front wheel as it rolls.
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