Celebrate over 90 years of childhoods and
have
some salad
July 30, 2011
St. Charles County, MO
The little red wagon. It’s been a staple of childhood for as long as many of us can remember. There is no arguing the nostalgia that summertime toy stirs in our hearts.
An American success story:
The Chicago-based Red Flyer company has been celebrating over 90 years of their famous toy wagons. The company’s founder, Antonio Pasin, made his way to Chicago from a small town near Venice, Italy. He scrimped and saved by working many jobs and by 1917 had saved enough money to buy some supplies and rent a workshop. He began creating wooden wagons at night and selling them during the day. Back then the name of his company was Liberty Coaster Wagon Company.
Pasin’s nickname quickly became “Little Ford” as he implemented mass production techniques to fulfill demand for his wagons. In 1930, the company changed its name to Radio Steel & Manufacturing. In 1933, the company participated in the World’s Fair in Chicago. Their 45’ tall Coaster Boy was a very popular exhibit with fairgoers.
What is the meaning behind the name “Radio Flyer?” The name Radio Flyer was chosen because of Pasin’s respect for Marconi’s invention of the radio combined with his awe of flight.
From 1942 to 1945 all wagon production stopped. The company was too busy focusing on wartime production of Blitz Cans. Blitz Cans are five-gallon containers made of steel used to transport fuel and water to the troops overseas. Radio Flyer was awarded an Army-Navy “E” award for their high achievement of producing materials needed for the war.
After the war, babies were booming and business was too for Radio Flyer. The little red wagon was a familiar sight in backyards and sidewalks in neighborhoods everywhere. There were Davy Crockett wagons and Mousekeeter ones, too. The Town and Country wooden wagon was introduced in the 60’s and the company’s first plastic wagon was created in the 90’s. Through the years, the company has also made tricycles, wheelbarrows, toddler walkers, patio furniture and more.
In 1992, the movie “Radio Flyer” was released, honoring this loved toy. The company has also collected poignant memories for publishing a book of stories from people touched by that “little red wagon.”
Gardening goes little red wagon
You can still enjoy the classic little red wagon in your home, even if all the kids are grown. Hose it off and bring it inside the house to use as an indoor lettuce garden!
Here’s all you do:
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Line the wagon with sturdy plastic sheeting.
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Fold the plastic over to double the sheeting and create a heavier barrier.
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Tape may be needed to secure the plastic to the sides of the wagon.
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Spread a layer of potting soil on top of the plastic.
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Plant some lettuce seeds.
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Place wagon near a sunny window.
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Water your garden every day.
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Shoo the pets away from it.
Within a few weeks, you’ll be eating salad thanks to your little red wagon!
And doesn’t it look so darling in the house?
Copyright 2011 Neighbors About Town
