The Virtual Corkscrew Museum's Weekly Newspaper

Syroco

In 1983 Herb Danziger, did a very interesting study on the Corkscrews of the Syracuse Ornamental Company CIRCA 1940-1950. The company developed "Syroco Wood" which was a composite of wood powder and resin used to produce a number of desirable corkscrews and openers. The corkscrews produced in full figure included a waiter, a man in top hat (above), a monk, a clown, an Indian and a Golden Knight. Other figures without a base included a police dog, a scotty dog, a bulldog, a laughing man, a terrier and a Pickwick figure.

Many of the figures were produced with both painted and walnut stained finishes. The figures were referred to in Syroco catalogs as "Old Codger," "Codger" and "Topper." Although these were produced well after Prohibition, I believe they have some foundation in the cartoon character of Kirby.

Stained Figures

Advertising "Socony - Vaccum

Old Codger Lux Clock

Old Codger Bar Towel Holder

Next: Openers Plus

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Introduction Andrew Volstead References The Facts Schuchardt's Patent Demley & More Flauder Patent Bridgewater Patent Syroco - Old Codger Openers Plus Death of a Puppet Kirby Conclusion The Drys Repeal

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