Toy Tales | Vintage Toys & Games, History and Exploration of Play

A Christmas Story House and Museum – Cleveland, Ohio

Relive the fun, frivolity, and heartwarming drama of Ralphie Parker and his family at A Christmas Story House and Museum in Cleveland, Ohio.

Toy Tales Weekly: The Pinewood Derby, Stan Lee, Hasbro, and more

A look at the history of the Pinewood Derby and 7 other things we wanted to share this week.

Collector Spotlight: Doc Lucky Meisenheimer

Doc Lucky Meisenheimer collects yo-yos. We talk with the Doc about the origins of his passion for the toy and discover why he's just as famous for his displays as he is his collection.

Jewel Magic from Mattel (1975)

When loaded with beads, Jewel Magic produced "oodles of baubles 'n bangles" at the turn of its handle.

The Repacked Podcast

The Repacked Podcast features comprehensive conversations about action figures and the franchises behind these toys and collectibles.

KerPlunk from Ideal (1967)

KerPlunk has brought skill and strategy to play since its debut in 1967. Iterations include Despicable Me and Jurassic World branded versions, along with giant and mini variations.

The Flexible Flyer Sled Museum – Moorestown, New Jersey

The Flexible Flyer’s New Jersey roots are honoured by the Moorestown Public Library's permanent exhibit dedicated to the iconic steerable sled.

Toy Tales Weekly: National Toy Hall of Fame, LEGO, KB Toys, and more

Uno, pinball, and Magic 8 Ball were the 2018 inductees into the National Toy Hall of Fame and 7 other things we wanted to share this week.

Jerome Lemelson: Technology Innovator

Jerome Lemelson's passion for technology and engineering led to advancements in toys, games, and gadgets.

Sonny the Seal from Milton Bradley (1999)

"ARF"

The coolest toys don’t have to be bought; they can be built. In fact, sometimes the only way they’ll ever exist is if you make them yourself.

Adam Savage

The market for child development toys is expected to reach about $40 billion worldwide by 2019; STEM/STEAM toys are projected to comprise 76% of that market.

Create Your Own Reel Viewer from UncommonGoods

Create Your Own Reel Viewer from UncommonGoods puts a twist on the classic reel-viewer experience: customizable images.

Zap! Ray Gun Classics

Published in 1991, Zap! Ray Gun Classics is a sure-fire nostalgia trip for anyone who grew up in the Space-Age era of Flash Gordon, Buck Rogers, and Tom Corbett.

Mini Tru-Smoke Diesel Mod-Pad Carrier from Remco (1970)

Released in 1970, the Mini Diesel Mod-Pad Carrier was one of the “tru-smoke” toys from New Jersey-based Remco that emitted “clean, harmless smoke” while it operated.

Hollywood Science Fiction Museum – Hollywood, California

The Hollywood Science Fiction Museum provides a look at the future and technology as told through science fiction media such as books, movies, and television.

Toy Tales Weekly: Sesame Street, Ouija Boards, Think a Dot, and more

Street artist KAWS has partnered with Uniqlo for a second Sesame Street-themed collection and 7 other things we wanted to share this week.

Jigsaw Puzzles – 250 Years of Fun

Anne D. Williams – puzzle historian, collector, published author, and professor – writes about the history and appeal of jigsaw puzzles.

Super Skittle Bowl from Aurora (1973)

"Olympic-size skittle bowl, it's like having a bowling alley in your backyard or playroom."

Hot Wheels Collectors Original 16 Display Set from Mattel

In Mattel's ongoing celebration of Hot Wheels' 50th anniversary, the company is releasing a showroom-style display set featuring reproductions of the first 16 original die-cast cars from 1968.