More Halloween Noisemakers
Halloween noisemakers probably originated in Germany, and became popular in this country around the 1920's. Early noisemakers were made of wood and made a ratcheting sound when spun. By the 1950's, noisemakers were made of tin, came in all shapes and sizes, and featured colorful Halloween graphics. Although noisemakers went out of fashion in the 1960's, today they're being appreciated anew by collectors, both for their sound and visual qualities.

American noisemakers were mainly produced by three companies: Kirchhof, U.S. Metal Toy and T. Cohn.

Ratchet style, U.S. Metal Toy Mfg. Co. Ratchet style, Kirchhof (note wooden handle) Ratchet style, printed on all sides, U.S. Metal Toy Mfg. Co.
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Round ratchet style, wooden handle, no manufacturer listed Contemporary plastic whistle, Amescan (?) Rattle, wooden handle, no manufacturer listed
Bell style, no manufacturer shown Rattle style, U.S. Metal Toy Mfg. Co. Mallet style, Kirchhof (note wooden handle)
Paddle style, Kirchhof Frying pan style, no manufacturer shown Horn, states only "Made in USA"

Go to Page Two for more noisemakers

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