Gemini Firecrackers 1966

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A few years ago I was lucky enough to find a case of these NOS vintage Martian Firecrackers. Sadly this is the last pack. These are probably circa 1965-66 and illustrate the fascination we all had with the space program. That's a Gemini space capsule on the front. These mini rockets are Cosmic Charged, Super Charged and Extra Loud!

Farmhouse Survivors/Now

A selection of farmhouses that have somehow survived. These are all located in Etobicoke.

Stoupy's Tavern/Royal Oak/ Then and Now

The Royal Oak Hotel at the corner of Dundas Street East and Ontario Street in 1945.

 

A more current view.

Later known as Stoupy's Tavern, the bar is now closed and used only as a film set.

Old New York Storefronts

More Old Signs Around Town

St. Lawrence Antique Market- Sundays

True Blue.

Green with Envy

Mauve Madness

Baby Blue
This week she had 2 tables set up.

More Old Motorbikes Around Town

These old Hondas are virtually bullet-proof and keep on going...

Gemini Spacecraft Model Contest

This ad ran on the back of comic books in 1967 and at the time seemed just too good to be true.
According to an old issue of Boys Life, the winner was Alen Hanshew (age 13) of Portland.
According to a Revell spokesperon:

To confirm for all, this was not a model. This was an actual replica that was produced by McDonald Douglas. The capsule had to be shipped via railroad direct to the museum. The prize was awarded via a sweepstakes type entry, in order to win; the winner had to agree that they would donate to a local museum for two reasons, (1) So that others may enjoy and (2) Because it had to be shipped via railroad direct to the donation site.

A little more trivia for you, the cost of building this kit was $5,000. In 1967 $5,000 was unheard for any type of prize. Plus the additional model kits that the kid won. At least the kid got to keep all the model kits as he watched his beloved capsule given away. There were numerous glitches along the way in production. At the last minute McDonald Douglas said they would not provide the capsule. However, after seeing all the press etc, they some how found a way to complete the project and deliver to the museum.

The capsule's current location is in the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.