American Science & Surplus Gift & Greeting Card

Business Description

Located in West Chicago, American Science & Surplus is a unique store that offers an eclectic range of products to those with a passion for discovery and invention. With a focus on science and education, this store is perfect for hobbyists, artists, experimenters, and do-it-yourselfers of all kinds. American Science & Surplus offers an array of unusual and hard-to-find items that can be used for a variety of purposes.

For those who are looking for value, American Science & Surplus offers surplus products at prices well below retail. They love closeouts, inventory overruns, mis-manufactures, and items whose time has not come. Customers have used American Science and Surplus items in homemade cars, sculptures, precision instruments, homemade telescopes, costumes, model railroads, window dressings, holiday decorations, and innumerable science projects. Their items are great gifts, inexpensive supplies, and an endless reason for a giggle or a "Gee whiz!"

American Science & Surplus has an intriguing history. It all started with Mr. Al Luebbers, who was working for Western Electric and had a great interest in optics. He noticed a company next door to the plant where he worked was throwing away reject lenses. He asked them if he could buy the rejects, but they said no. Instead, they told him he could have them if he would haul them away. Al and his wife Buddy took the lenses, cleaned and polished them at their kitchen table in the evenings, and offered them for sale. They placed an ad in Popular Science offering ten lenses for 50¢ and began to receive orders. Al figured that if they changed the ad to "Ten Lenses for $1", people would think they were better lenses and buy more. So he did, and they did. The business was launched as American Lens & Photo and has since grown into American Science & Surplus.

If you're in the market for an oddball piece or just want to browse a selection of unusual items, American Science & Surplus is worth a visit. The store's wide range of products and low prices make it a great place to find unique gifts or supplies for your next project.

Gift Ideas for American Science & Surplus

If you're looking for an out-of-the-ordinary gift, American Science & Surplus is the perfect place to look. This eclectic store offers a wide range of unique and hard-to-find items that are sure to delight anyone with a passion for discovery and invention. Here are a few gift ideas that will inspire, amaze, and entertain:

For the science enthusiast, a telescope or microscope is the ultimate gift. American Science & Surplus offers a range of models at affordable prices, making it easy to find the perfect one for your loved one's interests.

For the artist or crafter, there are many unusual materials that can be used to create one-of-a-kind works of art. Unusual papers, fibers, and fabrics can be found here, as well as tools for working with metals, clay, and more.

For the gadget lover, there are plenty of unique items to choose from, such as solar-powered chargers, quirky clocks, and fun electronic toys. These gifts are sure to bring a smile to their face and provide hours of entertainment.

For the DIY enthusiast, American Science & Surplus offers a wide range of tools and materials that can be used to build just about anything. Whether you're looking for fasteners, adhesives, or specialty tools, you're sure to find it here.

For the curious kid, American Science & Surplus has a range of educational toys and games that are both fun and educational. From chemistry sets to engineering kits, these gifts will help kids learn while they play.

Overall, American Science & Surplus is a great place to find unique and inspiring gifts for anyone on your list. With a focus on science and education, this store offers something for everyone and is sure to delight even the most hard-to-shop-for person on your list.

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