October 24th, 2015: Ex MARX The Spot

We're a week from Halloween but that doesn't stop the wee ones from having visions of sugarplums. So the responsible parent has to be thinking what to get Babs and Junior. Of course being responsible we'd like to lure them away from hours of computer games, and nothing dangerous, toxic, or violent. Something to spark their imagination, their creativity. Kids who have those traits can amuse themselves for hours with a piece of string and a swizzle stick, but some need guidance, direction, like a wholesome playset.
Toy soldiers? Heavens no.
Cowboys & Indians? No, irresponsible portrayal of Native Americans.
Paul Bunyan & Babe the Blues Ox? Good lord, deforestation, global warming, homeless squirrels.
Then the pillars of society, bringers of law & order, the government's guiding hand of justice, Elliot Ness & the Untouchables.



My favorite is the guy in the suit, overcoat and fedora, carrying a golf bag. Nobody would suspect a shotgun in there

OK, What's with Ex MARX The Spot, you ask?
Well now, Louis Marx and Company, starting in 1919, made this play set and lots of other toys. But since 1979 it's Ex toy company.
It seems this set is being reproduced, and by the looks of ebay and Amazon by several people. basic or with all the cars, furniture, store fronts, and lampposts. A choice of painted, unpainted, and even cast metal, to fit every credit card. Best of all, it will still be relevant come St Valentine's Day.