Toys From the 1900s: History's Best Sellers

Make way for the hits of 1900s! This remarkable era stood as a testament to the golden era of American industry and the march of first-rate toys. Crowd-pleasers such as Meccano shared the spotlight with mega-bestsellers Crayola Crayons and essential classics. Brought to you by top-notch makers from industry leaders like Meccano Ltd. and Binney & Smith, these trailblazing products swept main street from coast to coast as genuine top-flight hits and earned a permanent place in cultural lore. Check out the complete rank-ordered ledger below to relive the finest releases of the year.

1. Meccano

   Released in 1901 by Meccano Ltd., Frank Hornby

   Meccano, initially launched as 'Mechanics Made Easy' in 1901, quickly became a foundational toy, captivating children with its innovative approach to construction. Born from the inventive mind of Frank Hornby, this metal building system allowed budding engineers to assemble a myriad of models, from simple cranes to complex working machines. Its introduction marked a significant shift in toy design, moving beyond static playthings to interactive kits that encouraged problem-solving and mechanical understanding. Meccano wasn't just a toy; it was a hands-on educational tool that fostered creativity and an early appreciation for engineering principles, making it an instant cultural phenomenon across homes and schools.

2. Crayola Crayons

   Released in 1903 by Binney & Smith, Edwin Binney & C. Harold Smith

   The turn of the 20th century marked a colorful revolution in children's play with the introduction of Crayola Crayons in 1903. Launched by Binney & Smith, these simple wax sticks quickly transcended their humble origins to become a monumental cultural phenomenon. For a mere nickel, children could unlock a world of vibrant imagination, making art accessible and enjoyable for everyone. This affordability, combined with their non-toxic nature, allowed Crayola Crayons to rapidly embed themselves into homes and classrooms across America, laying the groundwork for over a century of creative expression and solidifying their status as an indispensable tool for childhood development.