Vilas-Harsha Toy Dressing Table

Q: My mother received this toy dressing table as a gift in 1918. It has a label on the back that says "American Toys, Manufactured by Vilas-Harsha Mfg. Co., Chicago." I'd like to know something about the maker and value.

A: Vilas-Harsha Manufacturing Co. was founded in 1919 with the consolidation of A.H. Vilas Co. and L.R. Harsha Manufacturing. Albert H. Vilas founded his company in 1878 and made moldings and picture frames. L.R. Harsha Manufacturing was founded by Leslie R. Harsha before 1893. By 1918, Harsha's company was making moldings, picture frames, gift novelties, and toy furniture. The companies merged in 1919 and became Vilas-Harsha Manufacturing Co. Your toy dressing table is worth about $25 to $50 in very good condition, but since it has paint loss and damage, it will sell for less.