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The 1930's- The Great Depression hits the U.S. hard
The Great Depression was a worldwide economic downturn which started in 1929 (although its effects were not fully felt until late in 1930) and lasted through most of the 1930s. It centered in North America and Europe, but had damaging effects around the world.
The most industrialized countries were affected the worst, including the United States, Germany, Britain, France, Canada, and Australia. Cities around the world were hit hard, especially those based on heavy industry. Unemployment and homelessness soared.
Needless to say, the toy making industry was dramatically impacted. Structo toys ranged in price from $1.25 for the construction cranes and simple pieces to $5.00 for the larger and more detailed toys. To put it into proper perspective, in 1930, $5.00 was one-third of a week’s wage for many working class men.
Structo continued to produce a very high quality line of toys but sales were the lowest in the company's history. This limited production makes many of the surviving examples of toys produced during this time extremely scarce and valuable.
The most industrialized countries were affected the worst, including the United States, Germany, Britain, France, Canada, and Australia. Cities around the world were hit hard, especially those based on heavy industry. Unemployment and homelessness soared.
Needless to say, the toy making industry was dramatically impacted. Structo toys ranged in price from $1.25 for the construction cranes and simple pieces to $5.00 for the larger and more detailed toys. To put it into proper perspective, in 1930, $5.00 was one-third of a week’s wage for many working class men.
Structo continued to produce a very high quality line of toys but sales were the lowest in the company's history. This limited production makes many of the surviving examples of toys produced during this time extremely scarce and valuable.
In the near future, sample catalog pages and print advertisments from the early 1930's will appear in this space.
For now, enjoy browsing a rare 1939 Structo dealer catalog featuring that year's entire line-up.
For now, enjoy browsing a rare 1939 Structo dealer catalog featuring that year's entire line-up.