Toys · 1918
Wartime Play and American Toy Innovation
In 1918, with European imports curtailed by the Great War, American manufacturers stepped up to fill playrooms with innovative wooden, steel, and plush creations. Children found solace and joy in sturdy construction sets and beloved storytelling characters during a transformative era.
- P. F. Volland Company | Doll
Raggedy Ann Doll
Mass production of the red-yarn-haired cloth doll began in 1918 alongside Johnny Gruelle's beloved storybook, capturing the hearts of children across America.
- Red Square Toy Company | Construction
Lincoln Logs
Created by John Lloyd Wright, these interlocking notched wooden logs allowed children to build miniature frontier cabins right on the living room floor.
- A. C. Gilbert Company | Construction Toy
Erector Set
Saved from wartime metal restrictions after founder A. C. Gilbert lobbied Congress, these steel girder construction sets inspired aspiring young engineers.
- The Toy Tinkers | Wooden Construction
Tinkertoy Construction Sets
These simple wooden spools and wooden rods allowed children to build elaborate spinning structures as domestic toy production surged during the war.
- Milton Bradley | Board Game
Uncle Wiggily Game
Based on Howard R. Garis's popular bedtime stories, this gentle race game guided young players through the woods alongside an elderly rabbit adventurer.
- Liberty Coaster Company | Ride-On Toy
Liberty Coaster Wagon
Handcrafted in Chicago by Italian immigrant Antonio Pasin, these sturdy wooden wagons laid the foundation for what would later become Radio Flyer.
- Ideal Novelty and Toy Co. | Plush
Ideal Plush Teddy Bear
Ideal produced soft stuffed bears that provided comfort to children seeking warmth and security during the final months of World War I.
- Lionel Corporation | Model Trains
Lionel Standard Gauge Trains
Powerful electric locomotives pulled brightly painted tinplate passenger cars around living room tracks, serving as prized holiday centerpieces.
Enjoyed your trip back in time?