Description
This is the 1939 Turtox Biological Supplies catalog, Catalog No. 40, issued by General Biological Supply House, Inc. of Chicago. Often referred to as the “Turtox red book,” it was the go-to reference for high school and college biology teachers ordering microscope slides, preserved specimens, models, and lab equipment on the eve of World War II.
A nice bonus with this copy is a folded, typewritten teaching handout on “Animal Phyla, Classes, and Representatives” with handwritten notes, clearly produced and used by the original owner in the classroom. Together, the catalog and handout form a vivid snapshot of biology teaching in the late 1930s.
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Original 1939 Turtox Biological Supplies “Red Book” catalog, Catalog No. 40
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Published by General Biological Supply House, Inc., a major U.S. school lab supplier
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Packed with listings for microscope slides, preserved and living specimens, models, charts, and apparatus, with contemporary prices
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Laid-in typewritten classroom handout on animal phyla, with manuscript annotations, likely by a biology teacher
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Attractive red and black design with strong vertical “Biology” spine titling and classic Turtox logo
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A useful reference for historians of science/education and a great display piece for collectors of vintage laboratory or school equipment
Condition: Large softcover catalog in red boards with black spine. Spine lettering bright and legible; light rubbing and small bump/crease at the spine ends; corners with minor wear. Covers show a few small surface marks and general shelf wear consistent with age. Interior pages are lightly toned but generally clean and legible; binding solid. The laid-in handout shows old folds, toning, and pencil notes as expected for a working classroom sheet. No loose or missing pages noticed on a quick inspection.
Overall, a solid and appealing example of an important pre-war biology supply catalog, enhanced by original teacher ephemera. In addition to any condition notes above, please view all the photos to assess the book’s appearance and condition for yourself.
