Matchbox toys were so named because the original models were packed in boxes similar in size and style to boxes of matches. The Matchbox/Lesney was a major employer in East London, before relocating to Rugby in Warwickshire in 1990.
Tootsie Toys made their debut in 1906 when a Chicago based company, Dowst Brothers made a minature die cast of a Model T Ford. By the early 1920's the name 'tootsie' was being used as a brand name. The 'Tootsie' moniker apparently came from one of the Dowst Brothers' granddaughters, who name was 'Toots.' |
