Hammacher Schlemmer celebrates the 100th Anniversary of offering the "Best," the "Only" and the "Unexpected." Our next century begins with a focus on the domestic needs of the post WWII consumer. "Hammacher Schlemmer has stood as a symbol for fine quality in Gifts and Housewares for 100 years. Our main purpose in life has been to assemble those things that help to establish an attractive and smoth running household-to set the scene for happier living!" This picture shows Else Schlemmer, President, cutting the first slice of our 100th birthday cake.
The same year the Berlin Blockade begins, prompting the U.S. to launch the Berlin Airlift, Albert I becomes the first monkey astronaut, traveling 39 miles aboard a V2 rocket launched from White Sands, New Mexico.
The same year Hammacher Schlemmer introduces the first Automatic Steam Iron and the Amazing Electric Broom, this "Ferris Wheel Set" captures the atmosphere of the carnival in a "very handsome, combination Drink and Relish Server". The 20" diameter wheel holds a dozen highball glasses and four "good-size" relish trays that revolve on its chrome-plated frame. It sells for $95.
In a departure from our typical gnome-inspired covers, this Gift and Fine Housewares Catalog features a whimsical depiction of two dogs riding a gift-laden toboggan on the front and back cover. The illustration is by Henry Stahlhut, a well-known designer of the period who created cover art for numerous Hammacher Schlemmer catalogs as well as many other national publications.
