Erector Set

An Erector Set contains a collection of metal beams, bolts, screws, nuts, pulleys, gears and motors which make working mechanical toys.

There are dozens of sets available, with several different sets introduced each year. Newer models come with electric motors to make the different objects come alive. Sets have the ability to be built into several objects including a robot, helicopter, submarine, Empire State Building or a variety of model cars and trucks.

The original Erector Sets were created by A.C. Gilbert in 1912. The first sets, Type I, used just a few small metal parts, packaged in cardboard boxes. The invention inspired the first national advertising campaign for a toy in 1913. The sets were not produced for a few years during World War II, then were re-introduced with wooden beams in the late 1940s. Gilbert ran the company until 1967 then was forced to file bankruptcy. The current sets are manufactured by Meccano and distributed by the Nikko Group.

• Wired: Geekdad: An Erector Set for Toddlers (July 3, 2007)

• ToySnipe: Vintage Erector Set (July 7, 2007)

• Google Blog Search: Erector Set

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