Spinner:McLoughlin's Indicator

McLoughlin Brothers was a book publisher specializing in retellings or bowdlerizations of classic stories for children. They were also the leading maker of games in the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In 1920 Milton Bradley Co. purchased the games division. McLoughlin ceased game production at this time, but continued publishing their picture books. This spinner device, called "McLoughlin's Indicator" dates from the late 19th century. During this period dice, as well as playing cards, often reminded people of gambling. Savvy McLoughlin brought out its 'indicator' as an improved substitute for dice or teetotums (similar spun indicators.) Clever marketing on the label calls the spinner both an "improvement" and "unobjectionable substitute."