The Ohio Art Company: Spinning Tops Through the Ages
Greetings, readers! Prepare for a captivating journey into the vibrant world of Ohio Art Company’s spinning tops. These childhood classics have delighted generations with their mesmerizing rotations. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the rich history, captivating designs, and enduring legacy of these iconic toys.
Ohio Art Company: A Legacy of Creativity
The Ohio Art Company was founded in 1908 by Charles Lazarus in Bryan, Ohio. Initially specializing in metal toys, the company later expanded into plastic products, including the beloved spinning tops. Lazarus’ ingenious invention, the “Everlasting Top,” laid the foundation for the company’s spinning top empire.
The Everlasting Top: An Enduring Icon
The Everlasting Top, introduced in 1947, revolutionized the spinning top industry. Its patented design featured a unique “hourglass” shape that allowed it to spin for an astounding 30 minutes. This remarkable invention instantly captured the hearts and imaginations of children worldwide.
Designing the Perfect Spin
Ohio Art Company’s spinning tops are renowned for their intricate designs and vibrant colors. Each top is carefully crafted to provide an optimal spinning experience. The company’s designers experiment with different materials, weights, and shapes to achieve the perfect balance and spin time.
Licensing Deals: Bringing Beloved Characters to Life
Over the years, Ohio Art Company has collaborated with various entertainment giants to create spinning tops featuring popular characters. From Disney princesses to superheroes, these licensed tops offer a fun and interactive way for children to connect with their favorite characters.
The Power of Nostalgia
Ohio Art Company’s spinning tops evoke a deep sense of nostalgia for many adults. The familiar “humming” sound and rhythmic rotations transport us back to our childhoods. The company’s enduring designs ensure that these toys continue to captivate new generations of children.
Ohio Art Company’s Spinning Tops: A Table of Delights
| Top Model | Design | Year Released |
|---|---|---|
| Everlasting Top | Hourglass shape | 1947 |
| Color Wheel Top | Rotating color wheel | 1958 |
| Rocket Top | Rocket ship design | 1969 |
| Bubblegum Top | Chewing gum-shaped | 1985 |
| Disney Princess Top | Featuring Disney princesses | 1995 |
| Superhero Top | Featuring popular superheroes | 2002 |
| LED Top | Lights up while spinning | 2010 |
Conclusion
The Ohio Art Company’s spinning tops have become an integral part of childhood for generations. From the Everlasting Top’s groundbreaking invention to the captivating designs of licensed tops, these toys continue to spin their way into the hearts of children and adults alike. As we embrace the nostalgia and joy they evoke, we invite you to explore our other articles for more fascinating insights into the world of toys.
FAQ about Ohio Art Company Spinning Tops
What is an Ohio Art Company spinning top?
Ohio Art Company is a toy manufacturer that first began producing spinning tops in 1928. Their spinning tops are typically made of metal or plastic and have a variety of designs.
How do you play with an Ohio Art Company spinning top?
To play with an Ohio Art Company spinning top, simply hold the top by the handle and spin it on a flat surface. The top will continue to spin for a period of time, depending on how hard you spin it.
What are the different types of Ohio Art Company spinning tops?
Ohio Art Company produces a variety of different spinning tops, including:
- Classic tops: These tops are made of metal and have a simple design.
- Character tops: These tops feature popular characters from movies, TV shows, and comic books.
- Light-up tops: These tops light up when they spin.
- Sound-effect tops: These tops make sounds when they spin.
How do I choose the right Ohio Art Company spinning top?
When choosing an Ohio Art Company spinning top, consider the following factors:
- Age of the child: Ohio Art Company produces spinning tops for children of all ages.
- Interests of the child: If the child has a favorite character or movie, you may want to choose a top that features that character or movie.
- Budget: Ohio Art Company spinning tops range in price from a few dollars to over $20.
Where can I buy an Ohio Art Company spinning top?
Ohio Art Company spinning tops are available at a variety of retail stores, including toy stores, department stores, and online retailers.
How do I care for an Ohio Art Company spinning top?
To care for an Ohio Art Company spinning top, simply wipe it clean with a damp cloth. Do not immerse the top in water.
What is the history of the Ohio Art Company?
The Ohio Art Company was founded in 1908 in Bryan, Ohio. The company initially produced wooden toys, but it later expanded its product line to include metal toys, plastic toys, and games. The Ohio Art Company is best known for its Etch A Sketch toy, which was introduced in 1960.
What are some of the other products that the Ohio Art Company produces?
In addition to spinning tops, the Ohio Art Company produces a variety of other toys and games, including:
- Etch A Sketch
- Slinky
- Lite-Brite
- Koosh Balls
- Silly Putty
Where can I learn more about the Ohio Art Company?
You can learn more about the Ohio Art Company by visiting the company’s website at www.ohioart.com.