| Around the turn of the century, penny arcades featured "strength-testing machines" inviting you to shake hands with Uncle Sam. |
"Shake With Uncle Sam / only 25 cents / he will tell you the strength of your personality." |
"Hello Strong-Man / Squeeze My Hand." |
| Original arcade machines from the turn of the century are considered valuable antiques, but reproductions (such as the ones shown above) can still be found in museums and some amusement parks. These pictures were taken by roller coaster enthusiast Joe Schwartz as he toured amusement parks, gathering photos for his Joyrides web site (http://www.joyrides.com). Thanks Joe! |