Test Your Strength Machine
Date19th Century
Object NameStrength Machine
Mediumbrass, wood, linoleum (? asbestos)
ClassificationsSports and Recreation
DimensionsOverall: Height: 68 cm, Width: 61 cm, Depth: 38 cm
AcquisitionPresented in 1986.
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDMS010852
About MeThis test your strength machine belonged to William Livingstone, born 13 August 1903, who was born in waggon at South Esplanade West, Torry. He inherited it from his father Edward Livingstone who was a docker, originally from Dundee. William Livingstone became a docker through the hereditary nature of the occupation. Later in 1944, he went into the fish market as a fish market porter or "lumper". There he remained until he retired in 1969 at the age of 66.
He travelled the shows with this test your strength machine, carrying it on his back and travelling by bus. He also had a smaller hand machine which was stolen when he was coming back from a show. He was a very athletic man who entered many of the contests - jumping, running etc. - at the Highland Games and shows.
Machine with a large brass dial marked in increments up to 50 stones. The centre of the dial is marked with two crossed flags on polls (incomplete portrayals of United States of America flags) and "WM MCMILLAN // ABERDEEN". Above the dial is a wooden handle which can be lifted and depressed into a brass vessel attached to the back of the dial. This is all mounted via three metal legs onto a rectangular wooden base that is lined on top with patterned linoleum, edged with metal strips. The underside of the base is recessed and round wooden feet at each corner.
