Amusing Gallery

A cunning stroke by William Heath Robinson

A clever but unsportsmanlike contrivance to increase buoyance and prevent fatigue among Channel swimmers. A useful inflatable idea to help long-distance swimmers by the gadget king, William Heath Robinson, well known for his convoluted contraptions and wacky ideas. Date: 1927

© Courtesy of the estate of Mrs J.C.Robinson/Pollinger Ltd/ILN/Mary Evans Picture Library

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Jacks Saloon, Happy Hollow, Hot Springs, Arkansas

Jack's Sallon Bar at Happy Hollow. An "amusement park" of sorts, Happy Hollow was established in the late 1880s or early 1890s by Norman McLeod off Central Avenue on what is now Fountain Street. Mr. McLeod also delighted many with his photography skills. Nearly everyone who has family that lived near Hot Springs in the early 1900s has one or more photographs taken there. The park was best known for its humorous photographs. Happy Hollows visitors could have their pictures made in an old bathtub, riding on the back of a burro, or taking a drink at the bar (as seen here with a multitude of humorous signs!), which contributed to Arkansass hillbilly image. Date: circa 1920s

© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection

Christmas Greetings card with a Golfing Pun theme

Christmas Greetings card with a Golfing Pun theme, playing on words/terms. "May Xmas: BUNKER trouble and Care and LINK you to a Golden New Year. I ask you to accept today... Each warmest wish of mine, that PUTS the w-HOLE of thought IN PLAY, and LINKS my heart to thine. May joy that suits you to a TEE, DRIVE IRON fate from view, and HOME or OUT, Good Fortune be the friend that CLUBS with you. Date: circa 1905

© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection