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What Are Tootsietoys?

The Great Depression brought many changes in the United States, and the toy industry saw a severe reduction in the purchase of expensive toys. Children still wanted toys, however. Money-conscious parents began purchasing cheaper Tootsietoys. Tootsietoys are pocket-size die-cast metal toys. They began as cars and have expanded into other die-cast products, such as airplanes. Tootsietoys are coveted by collectors even today. Tootsietoys was trademarked in 1924.

Die-casting
- At a Columbian Exposition in 1893, die-casting was premiered. The metal is melted into a liquid and poured into a mold. Charles Dowst brought die-casting technology to the United States and began producing inexpensive "horseless carriages" for children. Dowst focused on cars, and later added pickup-trucks to his line of toys.
Model-T
- Dowst recognized the popularity of the Model-T Ford, and created a very detailed replica toy. The Model-T became a popular toy, because it was affordable and convenient to play with. Any authentic Tootsietoy will have their name embossed on the underside of the toy along with "Made in the U.S.A."
Other Toys
- In the 1920's, Tootsietoys expanded into contemporary dollhouse furniture resembling the décor of the 1920's and 1930's. They advertised their furniture in the Sears catalog for less than $1. The die-cast furniture fit in cardboard houses made by several other manufacturers, including Wayne Paper Goods Co. Toy trains, boats and aircraft joined the Tootsietoy line in the mid 1930's. In fact, Tootsietoys manufactured the toys in Cracker Jack boxes.
Tootsietoys Today
- After buying out the Dowst Brothers Company in 1926, owners Myron, Allen and Richard Shure purchased the Strombecker Corporation in 1964 and expanded their line into slot-racing. The company continued to make Tootsietoys, and even creates the die-cast Monopoly game pieces. Today Tootsietoys include preschool toys, such as magnetic letters and colored wooden blocks. Jump ropes, putty and paddle ball are included in Tootsietoys' rack goods -- and you can get your princess tea sets and picnic baskets from Tootsietoys as well. More than 40 million die-cast toys are produced every year, according to Dr. Toy's Dr. Stevanne Auerbach, Ph.D.

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