Toys · 1915
1915: A Golden Era of American Play
As World War I curtailed European toy imports, American manufacturers surged forward with inventive, durable playthings. From iconic rag dolls to metal construction sets, 1915 marked a pivotal year of imaginative childhood play.
- 1915 | Johnny Gruelle | USA
Raggedy Ann Doll
Patented by illustrator Johnny Gruelle in 1915, this charming red-yarned rag doll quickly captured hearts across America as an enduring symbol of childhood comfort.
- 1915 | Rueckheim Bros. & Eckstein | USA
1915 Cracker Jack Baseball Cards
Packaged directly inside popcorn boxes, this iconic 176-card set featured vibrant portraits of legendary ballplayers like Ty Cobb and Honus Wagner.
- 1915 | Parker Brothers | Board Game
Pollyanna: The Glad Game
Based on Eleanor H. Porter's bestselling novel, Parker Brothers introduced this uplifting track-movement board game where players maneuvered tokens to turn misfortune into gladness.
- 1915 | The Toy Tinkers | USA
Tinkertoy Construction Set
Invented by Charles Pajeau, these wooden spools and rods won top honors at the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition for sparking open-ended architectural creativity.
- 1915 | A. C. Gilbert Company | USA
Gilbert Erector Set
Featuring new electric motors in 1915, A. C. Gilbert's steel building sets empowered young builders to assemble working miniature cranes and bridges.
- 1915 | Geo. Borgfeldt & Co. | USA
Rose O'Neill Kewpie Dolls
Created by artist Rose O'Neill, these chubby, wide-eyed winged baby figures dominated playrooms and carnival prizes throughout 1915.
- 1915 | A. Schoenhut Company | USA
Schoenhut All-Wood Dolls
Crafted in Philadelphia, these unbreakable wooden dolls with steel spring joints offered a high-quality American alternative to imported German porcelain.
- 1915 | Lionel Corporation | USA
Lionel No. 42 Electric Locomotive
A centerpiece of Lionel's 1915 catalog, this heavy-duty Standard Gauge electric train engine brought realistic railway action into living rooms.
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