The overhead pulley system shown was commonly used in retail establishments of the time. They transported cash, paperwork and goods. The pneumatic tube system, also a sight gag used in cartoons, would evolve from this.
Pretty risque for its time, as this was postcode, the ballerinas sing a song whose lyrics say: "if you find your Romeo sitting in a bordello..."
The tour guide is modeled after comedian W. C. Fields, who was notorious for his hatred of irritating children, like the Little Blabbermouse.
Audiences of the time would have recognized and appreciated all of the product humor shown. The items depicted here were everyday necessities back then, which patrons bought at the neighborhood corner drug store.
More modern production and technology have replaced many of the items seen on the tour, but products such as pink bismuth (pepto bismol), cash registers, and safety razors still exist today.
More modern production and technology have replaced many of the items seen on the tour, but products such as pink bismuth (pepto bismol), cash registers, and safety razors still exist today.
The evil side of the tobacco tin was voiced by Thurl Ravencroft, in one of his earliest appearances. He was best known later as the voice of Tony the Tiger and "You're a Mean One, Mister Grinch."