Accession Number

2008.005.012

Alternate Name

figural tape measure; novelty tape measure

Description

One figural tape measure made of celluloid in the shape of the head of Edward, Prince of Wales (later King Edward VIII, then Duke of Windsor). He is represented in uniform with a military cap. The cloth tape has a plastic tab and pulls on a spring mechanism from the back of the neck. Measure is in inches and centimeters.

Narrative

Figural tape measures, such as this, were popular novelty and souvenir items in the late 19th and early 20th century. 

HRH Price of Wales (later King Edward VIII) visited Craigdarroch Castle on September 25, 1919 to open Craigdarroch Military Hospital, as part of a cross-Canada tour.

History of Use

The donor was a collector of needlework items and gave this to Craigdarroch as part of a large bequest of sewing tools. 

Date

circa 1920

Dimensions

5.5 x 4 cm

Material

Plastic, celluloid