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• 1 media/Montreal_Gazette_0617_1950.png 2025-03-18T17:20:57-04:00 Use of the Torcan 866P 25 1950-1969 plain 2025-03-19T19:33:51-04:00 1950 - 1969

  Who Used the Torcan 866P?

  Torcan's marketing strategies reveal that the fan was primarily targeted at two groups: office workers and homemakers. Advertisements emphasized the fan's utility in both settings, reflecting its versatility and appeal to the middle class. The 1950s and 1960s were marked by significant economic growth in Canada, with rising wages and increased participation of women in the workforce. These factors contributed to higher household incomes, enabling families to invest in appliances like the Torcan 866P. With Canada's population at 13.7 million compared to 40.1 million today, during the 1950s and steadily growing due to immigration and the baby boom, this period likely meant that more people could afford the fan, making it a desirable purchase for many households.

  How Was the Torcan 866P Used?

  The Torcan 866P was likely used daily during the summer months to combat rising temperatures. Its compact design and 8" blade diameter made it ideal for desks and small spaces, further enhancing its appeal. However, due to the open cage, it did not seem suitable for children. Torcan's advertisements often leveraged patriotism, particularly during the Cold War era. For example, their baseboard heaters were marketed with slogans like "This is what it takes to win the Cold War," appealing to consumers' sense of national pride. Similarly, the desk fan was promoted as a practical and essential item for modern living.
  Owning a Torcan 866P was more than just a practical decision; it was a symbol of modernity and middle-class status. Its presence in homes and offices also reflected the era's emphasis on comfort and technological progress. Additionally, Torcan's marketing campaigns often tied the fan to specific occasions, such as Father's Day. Advertisements encouraged consumers to purchase the fan as a gift, further embedding it in the cultural practices of the time. This strategy not only boosted sales but also reinforced the fan's role as a desirable and thoughtful present.