Hobart Foundry & Machine Confirms Contract Renewal; Birdbath Machines Still in Production

HOBART, OHIO – Hobart Foundry & Machine has confirmed the renewal of its sole remaining manufacturing contract for the production of cast-iron hermetically sealed birdbath coin-operated fortune-telling machines.

Plant manager Lyle Dodd stated that demand “remains steady, if unexplained.” The contract, which technically never expired, has been in continuous effect since its original execution date, which neither the Foundry nor the contracting party has been able to produce. Both sides agreed that production should continue “until further notice.” The renewal was approved without discussion at the most recent Council session.

The machines are fabricated entirely by two employees: Sheldon Marsh, 84, and Earl Tipton, 99, who report to work on the Foundry’s single weekly shift. When asked about succession planning, Marsh said, “Earl’s training me.” Tipton did not comment but was observed eating a cookie.

The Foundry, located behind the Riverfront Shoppes on Route 3, currently operates with no other active contracts. The birdbath fortune-telling machines have been its sole product for several decades. They can reportedly be found at various undisclosed locations throughout Proctor County. The Herald was unable to locate a single resident who has received a fortune from one, though several claimed to know someone who had.