Archived Exhibition

Time to Play! Early 20th Century Toys

Exhibition dates: May 17 – October 12, 2007

Toys and games are products of the society, culture, and family traditions in which they are created. Toys are often miniature versions of real-life inventions and activities, and they reflect our sense of humor and curiosity. Toys appeal to everyone; they challenge us, teach us, and provide entertainment.

Through the first half of the 20th century, playthings evolved from handmade wooden or cloth toys to more elaborate cast iron, tin, rubber and plastic toys produced by companies worldwide. In a period marked by two world wars and advancements in medicine, science, technology and social progress, toys mirrored these changes. American icons were born during this time, sparking the imagination of children everywhere; cartoon personalities, cowboys and superheroes leapt from the pages of comics, radio programs and the silver screen.

Many of the toys featured in this exhibition are still enjoyed today, while others have been replaced with computer games or electronic versions. Regardless of the time period or the material, the enduring toy—the one that we all remember playing with when we were young—is the one powered first and foremost by imagination.

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Time to Play Family Fun Days

Join us the third Saturday of each month through July for hands-on activities that allow families to create and play with a variety of fun and inventive toys that were enjoyed from the early 1900s to the 1950s.

Activities will take place at Boyd Park and in the Boyd Gate House from 11am–2pm.

Saturday, May 19 – Tea Parties & Toys
Saturday, June 16 – Hoops & Hopscotch*
Saturday, July 21 – Jacks & Jump Ropes

*On Saturday, June 16, the Marin Museum of the American Indian will partner with MHM to provide historical context to the Hoops & Hopscotch-themed Family Fun Day. Staff from the Marin Museum of the American Indian will be on site to help participants learn about and play four different Native American games – two of which are the original “hoop” and “hopscotch” games.

Parking is available to Museum visitors during Family Fun Days across
B Street in the Westamerica Bank parking lot, on the corner of B St. and Mission Ave.

Acknowledgements

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Toys above from the Jefferson J. and Shirley Graves collection