Retro Toys and Treasures Bring Back the Pleasures of the Past

Whether you are nostalgic for simpler times or you simply want your kids to experience active play that does not involve a remote control or video screen, retro toys are the perfect way to bring back the pleasures of the past. Below are just a few of the beautifully-crafted, sturdy vintage-style toys and other treasures that can provide hour after hour of safe and wholesome fun.

Radio Flyer Inchworm

A few decades ago, nearly every American child had their own Radio Flyer inchworm; all it takes to make this adorable ride-on “go” is bouncing up and down. Safe for kids aged 2 to 5, this friendly toy helps children develop balance and large motor skills.

American Retro and Airflow Collectibles Pedal Cars and Planes

Let your child’s imagination soar with American Retro and Airflow Collectibles retro ride-on toys, including pedal cars, planes, and trains. These stainless-steel ride-ons meet or exceed all current safety standards; the durable construction ensures that your child, and even your grandchildren, will enjoy these fanciful toys for years to come.

Radio Flyer Retro Rocket

The Radio Flyer Retro Rocket pedal toy sports vintage styling, along with realistic “outer space” sounds (activated by rolling the wheels) and under-the-seat storage to take along everything your child needs for the next important “mission.”

Airflow Collectibles Tricycles

Airflow retro tricycles are stunning reproductions of the original Sky King Trikes of 1936. These steel trikes boast fabulous powder coats, chrome insignias, solid rubber tires, sealed ball bearing, rubber handles, and light that really does work. Why spend over $3,000 for an original trike that is in bad, as well as, unsafe condition, when you can buy a perfect replica in pristine condition? For even younger children, Airflow makes junior-sized tricycles that are exactly the same in every way, just scaled-down.

American Retro Coke Machine

While you may not be old enough to remember the first Coca Cola machines, back when a cold one cost only a few cents, you are sure to appreciate the retro feel of this authentic reproduction of the Westinghouse original from the 30’s and 40’s. This vintage-style treasure really works and is perfect for the family room or patio.

Coca Cola Bubble Clock

The classic “double bubble” Coca Cola advertising clocks, made from the 1940s to the 1960s, are among the most attractive vintage clocks available. Add one of these fully-functional electric clocks (no batteries required) to your den or family room to give your décor a genuine retro look and feel.

Where to find

You can find all of these amazing vintage-style items, as well as a wide range of retro ride-on toys (from planes to trains to automobiles) and much more – even a “real” Thomas the Tank Engine – from A Kid Place. Visit us today to find over a thousand high-quality, safe and environmentally conscious toys, nursery and bedroom furnishings, children’s musical instruments, and classroom items, all at affordable prices.

The History of the Coke Machine

Whether you are old enough to remember the first Coke machines, back when a bottle of icy cold Coca-Cola cost only a nickel, or you are a fan or collector who specializes in vintage Americana, the American Retro coke machine is the perfect addition to your family room or patio area. For the enthusiast, here is a little bit of the history of the ubiquitous Coke machine.

The First Coke Machines

Coca-Cola was already the most popular American soft drink when the Coke machine first appeared on the scene in 1929. The original machine was a basic ice chest with the Coca Cola logo on it, manufactured by an Indiana company known as Glascock Bros. Manufacturing. It could be found in drug stores and malt shops everywhere; the 6-oz. bottles sold for 5₵ apiece.

The 1930s – Pre-WWII

Throughout the 1930s, Glascock Bros. continued to manufacture their signature Coke machines; the smaller models were designed to fit on store counters, or they could be wall-mounted to economize on limited space. A larger, “standard” model was available on casters so that it could be moved easily; the cooler held crushed ice to keep the drinks cold and refreshing, in keeping with the “Ice Cold” label that appeared on every machine.

World War II Era

In 1937, two companies – the Vendo company and Vendorlator Manufacturing Company – merged to form a single soda machine manufacturing firm. The resulting company produced over 5,000 coolers, which were installed at military bases and factories in keeping with Coca-Cola’s pledge to provide free soft drinks to all of the nation’s servicemen during wartime.

Postwar Years

The post-WWII Coke machines, in particular, are considered to be works of art and are highly prized by collectors. The first coin-operated machines featured white-over red units; thirsty customers would insert their nickel, then open the door and retrieve their bottled Coke.

With the American Retro Coke Machine, you can bring a little piece of vintage Americana into your own home. These exquisitely designed models are authentic down to the last detail and create the perfect conversation piece for your family room, bar area, or outdoor patio. You can find these vintage-style Coke machines, along with other great products from American Retro, at A Kid Place.