These novelty mechanical dispensers were produced by the Schwartzbaugh Manufacturing Co. of Toledo, Ohio during the 1920’s, and are referenced in the 1992 book entitled, “Smokerama” by Phillip Collins. Both pieces are approximately 10 in. tall X 9 in. wide X 4 ½ in. deep at the base. Both have original ears and tail (usually replaced), cigarette dispenser lacks the small pack that was typically on the donkey’s back for holding matches. Behind the donkey is a green directional sign (which also holds the hidden cigarettes) with arrow pointing to “Arroyo Grande” and “Half Moon Junction”. Both pieces appear to be mechanically sound and operational except the short rubber hose original to the whiskey dispenser donkey’s underside is rotted mostly away and would need to be replaced to make that dispenser operational for dispensing fluids. A small piece of clear aquarium or similar tubing might suffice for an adequate replacement.

While occasional single examples of this set appear, to find an original pair in working order with original ears and tails is very rare. If you want the ultimate fun conversation starter for your bar here it is. When the whiskey dispenser’s front ear is lowered the donkey’s tail would raise and it would “pee” whiskey (stored in the whiskey barrel on donkey’s back) into a shot glass through the rubber hose on bottom of donkey. The cigarette dispenser worked similarly, lower the donkey’s ear and its tail would raise and a cigarette would “appear” from the donkey’s rear end; the cigarettes being stored in the directional sign behind the Donkey (for nonsmokers we have seen these pieces dispense candy cigarettes). Overall condition is good with paint losses and minor corrosion commensurate with age and use.