Behold, the Mini Hoover

James Spangler, an asthmatic janitor, brought a revolution to the cleaning industry with his invention of the first upright vacuum cleaner. This device, a stark departure from the conventional broom and pan, was essentially an electrified broom. It featured a motor, a fan, a dust-collecting bag, and a rotating brush, all of which worked in harmony to dislodge debris. This unique combination of elements marked a significant shift in the way we clean.

Hoover ad from the 1920s

Spangler's patent found its way to the Hoover Company in 1908, a move that would shape the cleaning industry for years. The company’s early dominance in the British market, particularly in the early 20th century, was so profound that Brits began referring to their vacuums as 'Hoovers '. Such was the popularity and ubiquity of the Hoover brand that it became a colloquial term for all vacuums, much like how we use 'Kleenex.

So it is even more remarkable that this miniature “Hoover” was made into a toy only a few decades later. It was the result of Taylor & Barrett's forward-thinking innovation. The toy-making duo were brother-in-laws who were known for their lead figures and animal toys. They produced a range that included figures of elephants, camels, zebras, and more. Their innovative approach to toy-making included realistic household replicas. They meticulously crafted these toys, using detailed molds and high-quality materials to accurately mirror the design and function of the actual household items they mimicked.

During the devastating WWII air raid in 1940, Taylor & Barrett’s London factory was reduced to rubble. Yet, their dedication to their craft and the quality of their products shone through. They managed to salvage a significant portion of their equipment, a testament to the durability of their steel molds. Despite the destruction, they held on, waiting for the war to end so they could resume production.

Unfortunately, the war and some internal disagreements led the two founders to form separate companies in 1945, F.G. Taylor & Sons and A. Barrett & Sons, and the surviving molds were divided between them. The war must have taken a toll on their partnership, with the stress and uncertainty of the times leading to disagreements and conflicts. The founders decided to part ways. The companies continued to trade until 1980 and 1983 respectively. The Barton company was acquired by the owners of Lundby in 1984, following which the Barrett designs were soon discontinued.

This pre-war Taylor & Barrett metal upright vacuum cleaner is cast metal and includes a cloth bag, just as Spangler intended. Taylor & Barrett also made other cleaning equipment replicas like brooms, dustpans, and buckets, reflecting the domestic chores of the era.

Today, collectors treasure Taylor & Barrett's household replicas for their craftsmanship and historical significance. This miniature 'Hoover' is a prime example. It’s a rare piece of history. It represents artisans who were unafraid to push boundaries and try new things. Perhaps Taylor and Barrett saw the emergence of the vacuum cleaner as a significant development that needed to be replicated in miniature. Too bad for Spangler that he didn't hold the miniature patent.