Profiles of Ingenuity

Frank Hornby grew his idea for a toy system with interchangeable parts into the company that would become Meccano Ltd., makers of the Hornby Trains and Dinky Toys brands.

Jim Henson was a television pioneer and innovative visual artist who raised puppeteering to a new art form.

Remco built a lasting legacy in the toy industry through its innovative use of recovered electrical parts, television advertising, and established pop-culture properties.

W.H. Schaper Mfg. Co. Inc. was quick to embrace innovations in plastics manufacturing to create some of the century’s most recognizable games.

The acclaimed aerospace engineer, inventor, and business leader took inspiration from a mishap with a heat pump to create the Super Soaker water blaster.

What began as an idea rejected by major toy companies grew to become K’NEX, a formidable competitor to established construction toy systems.

Stanley Weston became a toy industry legend for his early contributions to the G.I. Joe brand and a storied career in toy licensing.

Aurora Plastics Corporation seized the burgeoning hobby market in 1950 and captivated model makers for decades to follow.

From toy soldiers to farm animals, Britains became Europe’s most enduring manufacturer of agricultural toys through innovation and imagination.

Energy company, Hess Corporation, released its first toy truck in time for the 1964 holiday season. The now-annual tradition has grown into a much-anticipated event for collectors and toy enthusiasts.

From a small-scale maker of plush toys and novelties founded over 120 years ago, GUND grew to become a leader in the toy industry.Energy company, Hess Corporation, released its first toy truck in time for the 1964 holiday season.

After a career in the United States Navy, Sas created the first-ever electric tabletop football game that took the market by storm and remained a hit toy for decades.

The British toy company made a name for itself producing tiny toys that encouraged imaginative play.

James R. Becker was a pioneer in the global toy and game licensing industry with objects of play that resonated with children and adults around the world.

The German company’s brand is based on the exceptional quality of its books, toys, and games.

Click the Subscribe button! These five time-honoured toy brands have ingeniously adapted to capture attention on YouTube.

From croquet sets to wicker prams, dollhouses, and electronic toys, South Bend Toy Manufacturing Company is known for its ability to pivot to meet the changing world.

Schwarz left his home in Germany for the United States and established an iconic retail brand that transformed the way retailers connected with consumers.