The Fairground Heritage Trust is the UK's only organisation preserving items from our rich Fairground history. Click on the image to make an online donation. Note that the donation process uses Paypal - and you may cancel your donation at anytime.

SAM CROW’S DODGEMS

Sam Crow’s Dodgems were built by Lakins of Streatham in 1938. One of a number of similar tracks, the Crow machine differed in that it had a double row of boards down one side depicting a racing car scene. Painted by Lakin’s chief artist Edwin Hall, this must rate as one of his most impressive works. The remaining boards have winged wheel motifs alternating with racing cars.

Left & below: Two views of the track on Newcastle Town Moor in 1971 (Tate)

Above & right: close ups of some of the cars from the racing scene on the front boards. These boards are now part of the Fairground Art collection at Dingles Steam Village, but are currently undergoing conservation work at Tate Décor, prior to going on display at Sheffield Museums Trust's Pleasurelands exhibition this Autumn.
The left hand front return, with a magnificent winged wheel motif bearing Lakin’s name.	One of the single cars featured on the rounding boards

BACK TO THE GALLERY INDEX

.