Thanks myrkassi and mianders for confirming that I haven't lost my memory. I am not too sure what brought it to mind, I think I just saw a reference to a paddle on the site here. I did a little digging and I think it could possible be a program called "Going for a song". Another possibility is the precursor to that program called ", Animal , Vegetable, Mineral". There are episodes of both on the You tube thingie if you search. Although i haven't found the episode in question.
kdpierre, interesting questions. Although the program was broadcast in 1950s or 60s the item was an antique then so probably dating to early 20th century. The US also had experiments with so called 'spanking machines' as well. But not sure any of these were ever a success. To me , it would seem to overly complicate matters. And I am not too sure if any parent would pay for it.
The paddle was supposed to be reused. It came with additional wooden pegs/ bridges so i assume they could be easily replaced in they got damaged. Although the design was that they would let go if too much forces was used and the paddle was just re-assembled, I assume.
Of course this is all from memory of a TV program 60 years ago. Which was the reason for my post. i had hoped some American reader would have seen it for sale of have heard of it being used. |