| |
Americans were fascinated with the romantic Old West settings and heroic figures that they saw in the western-themed movies and television shows popular during the 1940s and 1950s. Some of the most admired western stars lent their names to toys, games, playsets, and accessories. These playthings encouraged children to become part of the Old West--experiencing make-believe adventures of cowboys and cowgirls, or frontier heroes.
|
|
Whitman Publishing Co.
Racine, WI
Date: 1954
ID: 96.0.155.4
|
|
Roy Rogers and Dale Evans Paper Dolls
Roy Rogers and Dale Evans were "King of the Cowboys" and "Queen of the West." From 1951-1957, millions of American children were glued to Roy and Dale's weekly television show to watch their thrilling adventures. In Roy and Dale's magical American West landscape, goodness was always rewarded and the bad guys got what they deserved. Their young fans eagerly purchased the many toys that featured these stars.
|
|
Walt Disney Productions
USA
Date: 1955-1956
ID: 86.118.1
Gift of William S. Pretzer
|
|
Davy Crockett Hat
Davy Crockett, an American frontiersman of legendary fame, became one of the biggest overnight successes in television history. During the winter of 1954-1955, the Walt Disney show aired a trio of television programs starring Fess Parker as Crockett. Americans went crazy for Crockett! Children loved Crockett-related accessories like this coonskin cap.
|
|
Milton Bradely Co.
Springfield, MA
Date: 1958-1965
ID: 88.316.1
|
|
Cheyenne Game
This game was based one of the many television westerns that graced American TV sets during the 1950s. The object of this game was to get from the corral to the Pony Express station--dodging Indians, poisonous snakes, and outlaws along the way!
|
