Matchbox - 1929 Fowler Crane - The de Selby Quarries Ltd. - Item# YAS07

As one looks at the architecture of the 1900s, a very obvious pattern emerges. As the century passed, the buildings got higher. The skylines of old citites took on a different look, with modern 'towers' looming far above the intricately sculptured ornamentation that distinguished the buildings of the past. The spate of lofty buildings was made possible by the new technology powered by steam. Steam wagons delivered materials to the site and steam-powered cranes lifted the materials higher and higher to the laborers. John Fowler & Co. Ltd, of Leeds, West Yorkshire was one firm whose steam-powered engines were an important part of the 20th century growth. Between the years 1924 and 1935, the company strove to advance the development of new technologies including an 'undertype' steam engine and a 'V-twin' compound engine, as well as diesel engines. The 1929 Fowler Crane is a detailed replica of a steam-powered crane that could be found at constructions sites. This intricate model has been crafted by Matchbox Collectibles exclusively for the Age of Steam II Collection.