Vintage mechanical novelties and devices at Anderton Boat Lift

10 Sep 2019 09:55
Published by: Kian French

On Saturday 7 September, the Anderton Boat Lift opened an exciting new addition to its free interactive exhibition area - a 'Novelty-orium' - comprising 22 fun, vintage machines and novelty amusements dating from the early 1900s - 1940s. The games on display include a beach-themed game of Carousel as well as Gypsy Fortune, Bullion and Shoot. Skilfully brought back to full working life, these coin-operated machines can be used for just £2 for ten tokens. These nostalgic machines are intended as amusements only and no prizes are given. *

The Anderton Boat Lift, owned by the Canal & River Trust charity, is free to enter, including its exhibition area, grounds and waterways-themed play area. Charges only apply if visitors want to enjoy a boat trip through the lift or along the River Weaver. **

This quirky and fun collection of mechanical amusements allow visitors to take a fascinating journey into the past, to a time before computer games and hand-held consoles. Visitors will be transported back to a time when people were delighted by Shoot, a game of skill, where getting the ball in the goal was the simple aim. Nostalgic games like Winning Cups and Jack Pot, Gypsy Fortune, Tip 'em off, Bullion, Jack Pot and Extra Win are other early examples of amusements that entertained and amazed generations from start of the last century.

Graham Wood, Duty Manager, Anderton Boat Lift, said: "These fun and unforgettable vintage amusements are a wonderful part of our past that is fast disappearing. Many of the people who worked on or went through the Lift would have been very familiar with such games and we are pleased to bring them back to the public's attention. We hope that these amusements will appeal to people who remember them from their youth but also delight, with their gun and simplicity, the youngsters of today."

The Anderton Boat Lift has a tree-top coffee shop selling fresh, affordable food and a shop that sells a wide variety of items, including books, games, cards and canal-themed gifts.

The Anderton Boat Lift is the first successful boat lift in the county and is Victorian high engineering at its very best. Still in operation today, the Anderton Boat Lift offers paid-for boat trips through the iconic boat lift or along the picturesque River Weaver (joint tickets also available). There is no charge for under 5 years old. For all boat trips, booking is advisable on 01606 786 777.

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