Whirlpool Jr.

The Whirlpool Jr. is a rare and fascinating artifact from the dawn of pinball history. Produced by Skilgames, Inc. in 1932, it represents one of the earliest mechanical pinball machines ever created. As a Pure Mechanical (PM) device, it relies solely on physical mechanisms to propel balls through the game board, pre-dating the introduction of electronic components that would become standard in later pinball designs.

A key feature of the Whirlpool Jr. is that it offered 7 balls of play for just 1 cent - a remarkable value proposition for players at the time. The machine is a square cabinet with a round playfield, measuring 18 1/4 inches long, 18 1/4 inches wide, and 5 3/4 inches high. According to the Encyclopedia of Pinball, it was the first of the "square-circle" games from any manufacturer, and was marketed by the Whirlpool Sales Agency of Youngstown, Ohio. Its simplicity and reliance on physical mechanics make it an attractive example of early pinball design.

Unfortunately, little is known about the Whirlpool Jr.'s design, art, or theme, as no documentation or illustrations have been found to shed light on its original intent. Nevertheless, this enigmatic machine remains an important piece of pinball history, offering a glimpse into the pioneering spirit and ingenuity that defined the early days of the industry. Its rarity and unique features make it a treasured find for collectors and historians, providing a tangible connection to the evolution of pinball from its humble beginnings to the modern games we know today.