Toys and Childhood

This showcase presents a selection of cast-iron and tinplate toys from the Museum’s collection dating from the  1870s to the 1950s, illustrating the ever-evolving nature of American childhood and home life and bringing to light aspects of play. A variety of vehicles are included in the display, from boats and airplanes to horse-drawn wagons, as well as fanciful toys relating to the American circus – acrobats, clowns and a miniature Ferris wheel.