For Students
This Isn't a Textbook Exercise
A Texas family is hunting the origins of a full-size mechanical Christmas Tree Turner — a SpinCraft model from Milwaukee, patented in 1956 (Patent 2733032). The trail goes cold in the 1950s. We need your help.
This is real historical research with real stakes. No hypotheticals. No made-up scenarios. Just primary sources, dusty archives, and the satisfaction of solving a mystery that's stumped us for years.
Skills You'll Actually Use
- Archival research (newspapers, trade journals, city directories)
- Primary source analysis (patents, catalogs, advertising)
- Historical investigation (tracking manufacturers, distributors, retail chains)
- Digital forensance (OCR databases, microfiche, estate sales)
What to Look For
- SpinCraft or Spin-Craft branding (Milwaukee, WI)
- Patent 2733032 (granted 1956, filed earlier)
- Ulrich family connections (inventors/manufacturers)
- Department store catalogs (1950s–1970s)
- Trade publications (hardware, housewares, seasonal goods)
- Newspaper ads, estate sales, or collector mentions
Why This Matters
The mom behind this search was a teacher for 40+ years. Every bounty we pay goes as a donation to a teacher or school — maybe even yours.
Perfect for class projects, independent study, history seminars, or just bragging rights when you crack it.
Get Started
Found something? Have questions? Email clark@superfun.team — we'd love to hear from you.