Traditional Toys
The Museum has a substantial collection of wooden toys, which are described as traditional toys. Many of these toys were first made in Germany. A highlight of this part of the collection is a set of sample sheets, which were carried by salesmen from the beginning of the 19th century to trade fairs and exhibitions. The Museum also has a fine collection of arks, many of which are on display. They range from an early 19th century example to a modern German one. Rocking horses date from the 17th century. The Museum has a collection of some 20 horses, the majority of which date from the 19th century.
Noah's Arks
Noah and his Ark has always been a popular biblical story for children, and toy versions of the ark have been made since the 18th century. They were particularly popular during the Victorian period when children were restricted to play with biblical toys on Sundays.
Toy Horses
Toys horses, in various forms and made from many materials, have been around for several thousand years. Often they closely resembled their real counterparts and the work that they performed, and they were usually for boys.
Sample Books - 1840
Until the 20th century, the centre of the toy making industry was firmly fixed in Germany. Salesmen and manufacturer's agents travelled between toy fairs carrying samples of toys and dolls to show potential customers.
