Who Invented the Toy Car?
Last Updated Apr 6, 2020 5:42:54 AM ET
In 1953, Jack Odell created the first matchbox car in London, England. The first car was a steamroller made of brass and painted red and green. In an assembly-line style production line, Odell and his partners worked from a London pub called The Rifleman.
Odell came up with the idea when he made a miniature steamroller for his daughter who normally carried spiders in a matchbox to school. His daughter loved the miniature creation so much that Odell decided to mass produce his idea.
Once he created the steamroller, Odell designed the land rover, a London Bus, a bulldozer and a fire engine. Finally, after 18 creations, Odell finally made his first matchbox car, which was the MG TD roadster.
More From Reference
Why Getting Vaccinated Doesn't Mean You Should Toss Out the Mask — Yet
How Do You Apply for Social Security Benefits?
How Did the VW Beetle Become an Emblem of the '60s?
We Explain the Complicated History of Myanmar and Aung San Suu Kyi
Financing the Future: Setting Up Savings Plans for Grandchildren
Responsible Retirement: What's the Maximum Amount You Can Contribute to a 401(k)?