-Hold the Fort c. 1877

Samuel Clark's "Hold the Fort" is a cast iron toy bank, embodying the intersection of play, industry, and patriotism. The weight of the iron grounds the object, while the rough texture of the casting speaks to the industrial processes that shaped it. Red, white, and blue paint evokes a strong sense of American nationalism and, along with the flag, infuses the toy with cultural significance. The method of production—likely involving mass production techniques—hints at the broader social context of industrialization and consumer culture. The phrase "Hold the Fort" is cast into the iron, indicating an association with strength, perseverance, and a subtle encouragement of savings. The cannon, flag, and fort all act as symbols of power. This toy is more than a plaything; it’s a material artifact reflecting the labor, politics, and consumption of its time. By understanding the material and making of "Hold the Fort," we recognize the complex stories objects can tell, blurring the lines between art, craft, and industry.