18 Weird Inventions From the Early 20th Century That Didn’t Quite Catch On

People like to think the early 1900s were a simpler time, but honestly? They were just as weird as we are now, maybe even weirder. Case in point: the bizarre gadgets, contraptions, and "miracle solutions" inventors tried to sell back then. Some of them were basically harmless oddities (like a rocking bathtub that made you feel like you were in the ocean), while others were downright terrifying (looking at you, face glove).

The thing is, not every invention makes it into the future - but looking back at the ones that didn't is both hilarious and a little unsettling. Imagine walking into a diner and sitting down on a stool that secretly weighs you before you order that milkshake, or strapping a rubber mask to your head three times a week in the name of beauty. Yikes.

These 18 inventions from the early 20th century are proof that people have always been experimenting, always been hustling, and always been a little bit out of their minds. And while most of these contraptions didn't survive the test of time, they definitely deserve a spot in the "what were they thinking?" hall of fame.

01
The “Niagara” Wave & Rocking Bath

via Rare Historical Photos

It says "ABSOLUTELY no water splashing in the room" but I doubt it
Advertisement
02
Multi-purpose cane

via Rare Historical Photos

You never know when you'll need a butterfly net
03
Surprise Chair

via Rare Historical Photos

For the person who wants less friends
04
Solar Bath Apparatus

via Rare Historical Photos

Cure Diseases of the Head by blasting it with UV light
Advertisement
05
Clock Phonograph

via Rare Historical Photos

This actually makes perfect sense and I like it!
06
Flying Saucer Camera

via Rare Historical Photos

"so scientists can judge the source and make-up of saucers"
07
Goofybike

via Rare Historical Photos

This seems safe
Advertisement
08
Cigarette Case to Keep Track

via Rare Historical Photos

If you're a guy who needs this, you already have no friends
09
Glamour Bonnet

via Rare Historical Photos

"The effect is similar to what a person feels who climbs a high mountain or flies high in a plane" - so… no effect
10
Electric Shaver Haircutting Guide

via Rare Historical Photos

Yeah… I don't think that would work
Advertisement
11
Umbrella-Equipped Cigarette Holder

via Rare Historical Photos

"An English clown"
12
Scale in Soda-Fountain Seat

via Rare Historical Photos

Shame yourself into eating less
13
Breathing Balloon for Big Breasts

via Rare Historical Photos

it's… just a balloon
Advertisement
14
Stamp Licker

via Rare Historical Photos

Licking stamps used to be a daily thing
15
Vigor’s Horse-Action Saddle

via Rare Historical Photos

"The problem with young people today is that they don't ride enough horses!"
16
Madam Rowley’s Toilet Mask (or Face Glove)

via Rare Historical Photos

I don't know if "Face Glove" is a better name than "Toilet Mask"
Advertisement
17
Fence Cycle

via Rare Historical Photos

That's it… It's a fence cycle
18
Water Hunting Tripod

via Rare Historical Photos

Or… you know… a boat.