Brings back memories. When I was young (a LONG time ago) my parents gave me
a copy of "The Boy Mechanic" which was published by Popular Mechanics. The
hardback book was vintage 1950's or early 60's but many of the projects
obviously dated into the 30's and 40's. It included many projects and
experiments that blanketed the spectrum from flight, sidewalk coaster cars,
photography, sail boats/iceboats, electrical projects and some archery
related projects such as shown on the link.

I also recall some projects that were well out of the "Boy" category. Not
the least of which was a fully enclosed and streamlined engine/propellor
driven iceboat that was capable of speeds over 70mph. I wonder how many
mothers found their boys building one of these?

It was probably books like these that developed a need to tinker and make
sawdust.

RonB