Vacuum Cleaners Discussions

Anyone know if he's still around selling the Dyson vacuums?

Chris

Hi Venson:

He does know alot of inside technical data.  If I recall correctly, Tom G. sold new Rexair Rainbows.

Carmine D. 

CarmineD wrote:
Mornin' Carmine,

That I don't know. However, I believe he had a lot to do with Air-Way and the development of its last model the Centurion.

Venson

Venson wrote:

True, Venson.  An Air-Way model was even produced and sold with his name on it.

Carmine D.

Hi everyone,

I spoke to Tom recently and the new museum at Tacony is really going to be a showpiece for all vacuum cleaner collectors.  There are over 519 vacuum cleaners on display from 1910 through the 1990s.  The museum is divided into separate sections or "rooms" for each decade; i.e. 50's room, 60's room, etc.  In addition to the vacuums, there will be framed advertisements highlighting the many different brands on display, and a complete library of instruction manuals as well as brochures.  It will be open to the public and they will be giving free tours to anyone who wants to view the machines.  According to Tom the museum is interactive; if someone wants to run a machine from the display they can (with supervision of course!).  I understand it will be opening in July with billboards along the highway advertising it.  It sounds like a lot of fun and I plan on visiting myself this September.

-MH

Fantastic! Thanks MH.

Venson

Venson wrote:

It does my heart and soul good to know Tacony [RICCAR/Simplicity] is preserving and exhibiting vacuum cleaner history from 1910 to 1990's through models and pictures.  

Carmine D.

Well, it's good to know that Tom G. is moving ever onward and upward away the drama and nonsense of a certain vacuum collectors club. He's probably the most knowledgeable person I ever encountered, and a good person to know.

Is there a web site for this new museum?  Is there anything else to do in St James, MO?

Severus wrote:
Hi Severus,

The press release I found was updated June 7th. Construction is still going on but a July 1st opening is hoped for.

I took the extra step and called Tacony in ST. Jmaes directly. I was given to understand that its sales department is handling the museum/factory store. I've already placed a call to her and am waiting for a response, but if anyone wants to keep tabs on this further, I was informed that the person to speak with is a Ms. Joy Petty. The number is 636-349-3000. Just ask for her when you get reception.

Best,

Venson

Hi Venson,

The marketing director, Joy Petty, is one of two overseeing the museum, the other being the President, John Kaido. 

Tacony will hosting a company-sponsored gathering for vacuum collectors at the Museum and Factory in St. James, Missouri on September 10, 11, and 12th of this year (Thursday, Friday, & Saturday).  The weekend gathering will be open to any vacuum collector or enthusiast who wishes to attend (yes, that means you too, Carmine!).  Accomodations can be found at the Days Inn of St. James.  The Museum will not be limited to "looking", either; all 500+ cleaners in the Museum will be completely operational and ready for those interested to try out at a moment's notice (with assistance from the Curator, Tom Gasko, of course!).  If you're thinking about going, I strongly urge you to attend and see the first ever private Vacuum Cleaner Museum in the United States.  This will be an event you will not want to miss, and distance-wise, well worth the trip. 

-MH