Fisher-Price toys provide trip down memory lane
Photos by Tom Rivers
MEDINA – Dr. Doodle, a toy manufactured by Fisher-Price in 1957-61, was among the toys on display during a program about Fisher-Price at Lee-Whedon Memorial Library today.
Larry Lackner shared toys from his collection as well as highlights of his research about the company including its time in Medina from 1970 to the late 1990s. Lackner worked for the company in Medina from 1972 to 1997, starting as a material handler and ending as a quality control inspector.
Fisher-Price turned the former Heinz plant into a manufacturing center for toys. At its peak, Fisher-Price had 950 workers in Medina.
The Little People were a very popular toy and are currently a finalist for the Toy Hall of Fame at the Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester.
Tuggy Turtle was made by Fisher-Price from 1959-1961.
Elsie’s Dairy Truck was made by the company from 1948-1950. Lackner said he regretted that the packaging for the toys always said made in East Aurora even though Medina was “Toy Town,” producing many of the toys.
