25945

Rare "Broom Torch" with McKinley Portrait Paper L

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles / Historical Memorabilia Start Price:300.00 USD Estimated At:400.00 - 500.00 USD
Rare  Broom Torch  with McKinley Portrait Paper L
<B>Rare "Broom Torch" with McKinley Portrait Paper Label</B></I> During the 1880s and 1890s, the broom was a popular political symbol, signifying a clean sweep of corruption, dead wood, or whatever. This most unusual torch is made like an actual broom with torch assembly projecting at top. On the wood shaft is a large, deteriorated paper label picturing William McKinley and the same of the manufacturer, Oliver H. Dean. It is hard to imagine this torch being used safely with its combustible broom just below the spill-prone torch assembly, which may explain why so few apparently survived; we have never seen another. But for the rough label, it is in fine shape. Overall length 64". Lot:259