Hal Davis asked about the present location and condition of Isis.

I wish I could  help with Isis' current whereabouts or her condition but
I can't.  I've always been fascinated by her even though I've never seen
her.

'Isis' was a life-size Egyptian automaton who played a zither.  She was
capable of 'breathing' and making many other movements.  (Like removing
her veil if the room warmed up!)

There's a long and fascinating article about her and her creator, Dr.
Cecil Nixon, in the MBS Bulletin from Winter 1977 (Vol. 23, No. 1).
It was written by Howard M. Fitch who did extensive research work and
first-class writing.  It includes 14 sharp photographs.  The career and
activities of Dr. Nixon are almost as fascinating as Isis herself !

Dr. Nixon died in 1962 and his will specified that Isis should be
bequeathed to a museum.  She landed at Harrah's museum of cars, western
collectibles and all kinds of  antique gambling devices.

I hope that this reply will spark new information about  Isis.  I'll be
happy to share it (with permission of MBS) with anyone who sends me a
large (9x12" stamped envelope with postage of $ 0.55 and a couple of
bucks for copy costs.

Ed Sprankle