Background
The aptly named Lollipop fan is one of the most desired and collectable of all antique fans. This fan is not the type of fan that you purchase to become a daily runner or a bedroom fan. No, this fan is one that collectors covet simply to pull it off the shelf every now and then and be hypnotized by the bizarre and mesmerizing oscillation mechanism. Considered a wind-type oscillator, the history of the Lollipop Fan is unique and best explained by Darryl Hudson from his website:
“In 1901, Eck set up his own small factory in Belleville, New Jersey. He began to use G&W as his sales agent until at least 1904 or 1905. Eck rented a home and his family was now complete with four children. It was written that all of the electrical appliances coming out of the Eck Dynamo and Motor shop were the result of Eck’s patents and ideas.
In the spring of 1903 he was issued a patent for a type of oscillating fan that is known as the Lollipop. It consists of a stick in front of the blade with a round disk on top. He never made this fan as he was already putting a better idea on the market—the first gear driven oscillating fan. He sold or leased his patent for the lollipop to Robbins & Myers of Springfield, Ohio in 1904. They continued to make lollipop fans until about 1909”
Based on some research, it appears that the Lollipop was first introduced during 1904 in DC configuration only, with external brushes for the rotating mechanism as well as for commutation of electricity to the motor. These earlier lollipops also differed from later, more commonly seen models (such as the one pictured below) by their cage: Early models feature two round wires for the circumferential cage rings whereas later models feature a square rear ring with no secondary ring at all, as shown below. I am not sure of the changeover date for this difference.
A wealth of valuable information about R&M and the lollipop fan was found on the AFCA forum from this thread. Thanks goes out to the AFCA members who selflessly share their wealth of knowledge with others about the history of these stoic artifacts.
White Glove R&M Lollipop
My beautiful example of a completely original 12" 1908 R&M Lollipop fan demonstrates just how wonderful a non-restored fan can look. My intentions for this fan are to eventually clean it up just a bit, insulating the electrical components and replacing the power cord (which is not original) with White Glove Fans' trademark twisted pair in clay color. Aside from this, I look forward to simply enjoying this fan, bringing it out to wow guests while explaining the rich history behind such a marvelous creation.
Please enjoy the images and video that follow.
