Sweet Antique Rattle Whimsy with Lock Shaped End green and cream A bit of research leads

A bit of research leads me to believe that most if not all were made from a kit of Strombecker Steam Locomotives dating to the 1920s or 30s

--to begin with

maybe mid-century or a little earlier

Just incredibly constructed from top to bottom and in fantastic condition--really quite a thing

Sweet Antique Rattle Whimsy with Lock Shaped End green and cream A bit of research leadsA fairly simple but beautifully carved and quite old whimsy rattle, sold as found with string wrapped around one end, perhaps to keep it from rattling! I really like the lock shape of the larger end, which also allows for it to be hung from a nail, and then the other end looking rather like a little acorn. Very sweet, with a great old patina, looks maybe like walnut to me. 5 1 2" x 15 16" x 15 16" and in very good condition. String could be easily