The December 23rd Chicago Tribune had a "10 Things You Might Not Know About Toys" history lesson by Mark Jacob.
Some of the more interesting facts:
1. Play-Doh was invented as wallpaper cleaner. And there I sat eating it.
2. Milton-Bradley originally called the game Pretzel before it changed its name to Twister. The game really gained in popularity after Johnny Carson played it with actress Eva Gabor. I can just see old Johnny's expressions now. Wish I'd seen it.
3. Chicagoland has been the birthplace of many toys. The Radio Flyer red metal wagon was invented in Chicago and its world headquarters remain here. They are made in China today, however. Big surprise there.
Tinkertoys were designed by Charles Pajeau of Evanston.
Donald Duncan, of Oak Park, popularized the yo-yo. He also invented the dreaded parking meter. If you're like me, it is not that I don't feed them on purpose, it's just that I forget to put the quarters in.
4. Who is Barbra Millicent Roberts?
5. Illinois-based RC2 Corp, maker of Thomas the Tank Engine had to recall one million units because of lead paint from China. They sent free box cars to soothe irate customers, but then it was discovered some of the box cars had lead paint.
6. Barbara Millicent Roberts is better known as Barbie. Various estimates have it that between 10 and 25% of Barbie collectors are men.
Give Me Toys, Give Me Toys. --the Old Coot
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