-Covered Bridge- still bank c. 1960s

John Wright created this Covered Bridge still bank out of cast iron in the United States. While it seems like a simple child’s toy, it represents the values and social history of the time. In the 19th century, covered bridges were a vital part of the rural landscape, facilitating transportation and commerce. By producing this cast-iron still bank, the manufacturer played into the ideals of rural life in America. It evokes themes of nostalgia, progress, and community. Notice the architectural details that add authenticity to the bank's design. What can a historian make of it? By studying trade catalogs, company records, and social histories, we can reveal the complex relationships between commerce, cultural memory, and the American landscape. The meaning of the art object is contingent on a detailed understanding of the social and institutional context.