Released in 1967 from Marx, Shop King was a child-size home workshop that encouraged creative construction and self-expression.
The battery-operated toy mirrored many of the power tools a child might see in a grown-up’s workshop. Children could experiment and showcase their creativity with the help of blades and grinders to cut out shapes; sanders and polishers for fine-tuning; and paint and pipe cleaners for finishing and decorating.
An instruction booklet promised 101 project and design ideas. Eight patterns were included to guide children in fabricating animals, structures, and other projects.
IN THE BOX
A complete set included the base, tools (saw, router, lathe, sander, jig saw, sabre saw, grinder, polisher, and borer), and accessories (saw guide, snap cap wrench, paint and brush, buttons, pipe cleaners, styrofoam, and coloured paper). An operation guide and pattern booklet were also included.
Louis Marx and Company produced many toys and games that became part of the tapestry of childhood. Memorable Marx objects of play include Big Bruiser (1962), Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots (1966), Carry-All Action Playsets (1968), Barnstormer (1975), Torpedo Shoot (1975), Prehistoric Dinosaur Playset (1978), and others.
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