This hand-cranked toy is called, “Cock-a-Doodle Egg Co.” The animated farm scene is activated by turning a handle on the right side. When activated, a stream of “eggs” (steel balls) start rolling down the rows of chickens, which bob their heads up and down. The eggs are collected in a basket and then recirculated as the handle is cranked.
Mr. Petersen created a vast array of projects over his lifetime, ranging from miniature engines to hand-cranked animations and more. He built functional miniatures like a 1/3 scale Gatling gun or a 1/4 scale Case steam tractor, but he also built mechanical creations for the fun and enjoyment of his family. When Birk passed away in 2015, his family graciously donated over 150 items from his collection for display at the Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum, where they are currently on display. We thank the Petersen family for sharing his extensive collection, which demonstrates the broad interests and many talents of Birk Petersen.