"the market for mechanical elephants has been pretty slow in recent years"

[grobmotorix]

All I can find is the year, location and photographer. From a Life Magazine Pictorial, 1953. Captioned "Mechanical Elephant - Fayetteville, N.C. Photographer: Robert W Kelley

And I think this answer is worth the point. And you´ve made a full 360° with this one!

the market for mechanical elephants has been pretty slow in recent years

When searching through the whole Life file you can find another picture with some more details:

[Otto Puzzell]

Is this "Wendy" the same beast? I don't know. The feet look the same...

[grobmotorix]

Is this "Wendy" the same beast?

No, I do not think so.

Can anyone read the bottom line of the sign?
I´ve tried all tricks with Corel and that´s the most improved version:

[barrett]

There was a rather decrepit example called Nellie, which I believe languished outside the Beaulieu museum for a number of years. Seems like a popular creation

[Otto Puzzell]

Another variation on this theme:

Built by Luneside Engineering (of Halton) to a design by Frank Smith, the Macades Elephant was driven by a single-cylinder JAP air-cooled stationary engine with drive to wheels that were in place of the rear feet. The front legs free-wheeled.

The "Mahout" walked alongside and controlled the beast by turning it's head to steer and operating the controls behind the ear. The machine had to be registered for road use, so it was required to have "Road-Tax", carry number plates and a fire extinguisher and the driver had to have a driving licence.

[grobmotorix]

How nice!

Thank you!

[Otto Puzzell]

Is this "Wendy" the same beast?

No, I do not think so.

Can anyone read the bottom line of the sign?
I´ve tried all tricks with Corel and that´s the most improved version:

I'm 95% sure it says: "World's Finest ans Safest Bathing Beach"

[Otto Puzzell]

Another pic of the Luneside beast.

It seems at least four of this type were built.

[grobmotorix]