The next program hosted by Sterling-Rock Falls Historical Society is scheduled for 2:00 p.m., on Sunday, May 21, 2017, at the CGH Medical Center’s Ryberg Auditorium, 100 E. LeFevre, Sterling, IL.
Steve O’Connor will present a program on the history of “Illinois Toys.” He is an Illinois native and a mechanical engineer, who was concerned about the decline in our manufacturing base in Illinois. While researching this subject, he became aware that we had a substantial toy industry.
He is on the board of the Rochelle museum and presented the idea for an Illinois toy display. So, O’Connor started collecting toys for display.
He will be discuss the 80 toy companies that existed in Illinois at one time, and he will display some of their toys.
The photo shows part of the Rich Toy Company collection displayed at Morrison’s Heritage Museum, 202 E. Lincolnway, Morrison, IL. Rich Toys were manufactured in Morrison and other area towns.
The program is free. Everyone is encouraged to attend. Refreshments will be served.
For further information contact the Historical Society at 815-622-6215.