Toys · 1907
Teddy Bears and Spinning Fads Rule 1907
In 1907, toy manufacturing reached new heights as mechanical construction sets and stuffed animals dominated nursery floors worldwide. The global obsession with teddy bears hit an all-time peak while parlor games and sidewalk spinning fads captivated children and adults alike.
- Steiff / Germany / Plush Toy
Steiff Teddy Bears
During its record-breaking year in 1907, the German toy company manufactured nearly one million plush teddy bears to feed an unprecedented global craze.
- Frank Hornby / UK / Model Building
Meccano Construction Sets
Inventor Frank Hornby officially trademarked the name Meccano in 1907, launching a revolutionary system of perforated metal strips, girders, and bolts.
- Gustave Philippart / France / Skill Toy
The Diabolo
This ancient hourglass-shaped spinning top, propelled along a string tied to two sticks, erupted into a massive international playground obsession in 1907.
- Florence Pretz / USA / Novelty Doll
Billiken
Created by artist Florence Pretz in 1907, this mischievous smiling charm figure became an instant national sensation as both a statue and a plush doll.
- A. Schoenhut Co. / USA / Wooden Playset
Schoenhut Humpty Dumpty Circus
Philadelphia toy maker Schoenhut expanded its popular line of posable jointed wooden circus animals and performers, delighting American children.
- Dietsche / USA / Trading Card
1907 Dietsche Detroit Tigers Postcards
This pioneering sports postcard set captured baseball stars including a young Ty Cobb, helping lay the groundwork for modern sports card collecting.
- Lionel / USA / Model Train
Lionel Electric Trains
Lionel energized department store display windows and parlor floors with its heavy-duty electric trains running on early standard track layouts.
- Märklin / Germany / Tinplate Toy
Märklin Tinplate Steam Toys
German manufacturer Märklin set the global standard for detailed tinplate steam engines, clockwork locomotives, and intricate miniature accessories.
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