The Story of Knickerbocker Toy Company: From Teddy Bears to Hasbro
When you think of American toy history, certain names always stand out—Hasbro, Mattel, Fisher-Price. But long before those giants dominated store shelves, theKnickerbocker Toy Company had already earned a special place in the hearts ofchildren and collectors. Founded in the early 20th century, Knickerbocker beganby producing traditional teddy bears and simple rag dolls, quickly gaining areputation for quality and charm.
By the 1960s and 70s, the company had become synonymous with one of the most beloved character dolls of all time—Raggedy Ann and Andy. Their soft, cheerful faces and hand-stitched style made them household staples, with many families passing them down through generations. Alongside Raggedy Ann, Knickerbocker became known for producing dolls and plush toys based on Holly Hobbie, Curious George, Sesame Street characters, Annie, and even Disney licenses, cementing its reputation as a leader in character-based toys.
However, as the toy industry consolidated in the 1980s, Knickerbocker was acquired by Hasbro,who integrated its most popular lines into their expansive portfolio. Hasbro itself would later merge and restructure within the larger competitive world of global toy companies, where it now stands as Mattel’s greatest rival. While the Knickerbocker name eventually disappeared from packaging, itscreations live on—treasured by collectors who fondly remember the joy thesedolls and toys once brought.
Today, Knickerbocker toys remain highly collectible, with Raggedy Ann and Andy in particular standing as cultural icons of 20th-century toy history. For many, they are more than playthings—they are symbols of childhood comfort, storytelling, and American nostalgia.
With love
Shyloh
Tales from the youngest daughter of adoll collector — raised on Milo, Vegemite, and more antiques than a country opshop.
