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Part of a set of weighing scales from a Douglas Head sideshow

Date made: late 19th century

Maker: unknown

Description: These chairs are part of a set of weighing scales which belonged to the Lindsay family. They were once part of a 'guess your weight' side show. Summer visitors would sit on the chairs in order to find out how much they weighed. They were located at the Douglas Head steps area, opposite what is now the swing bridge over Douglas harbour. This was once the site of the terminus for the fernicular railway up Douglas Head, and boasted a number of penny arcades and attractions.

The full set of scales comprised the two wooden chairs, a brass cantilever, and a brass chair support.

During the height of the Isle of Man's popularity as a tourist resort, Douglas Head was a major attraction. The Douglas Head ferry would take visitors across the harbour, where they would disembark to enjoy the views from the high ground of the Head. They could also enjoy the entertainment in one of the many booths or attractions, or watch a minstrel show. Most of the attractions closed with the outbreak of war in 1939, and did not re-open again.

#imuseumholiday

Measurements: various

Materials: brass, wood

Object name: weighing scales

Collection: Social History Collection

ID Number: 2003-0135

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