Tonka Trucks From Toys to Real Life
Every kid needs to have a Tonka Truck, whether it’s classic “indestructible” metal models or one of those new beautiful bulky dump trucks. But Tonka did not only produce construction vehicles – the toy company built and continues to create a variety of miniaturized massive machinery. Have a look at some of the more interesting Tonka vehicles we found, along with a little bit to Tonka toy history.
Tonka Mighty Dump Truck
In 1964, Tonka (which means “Big”) introduced their unfortunately named “Mighty Dump” truck, one of the world’s most recognized toys. It’s metal body and durable parts made a mark on America as an “indestructible” gift any child would adore.
Today’s Tonka’s are made of more plastic than metal, allowing them to be safer for children to play with – but are still touted as an almost invincible product, able to take on any beating your kids will give.
Hasbro purchased Tonka in 1991, and has since created a themed clothing line, preschool-age toys, video games, barbecues, and was even honored when a life0size version of the “Mighty Dump” was built to go on Tonka Tours – raising money for charities.
Tonka Army Jeep
In support of American troops, Tonka produced several Army vehicles in the early 1960’s – including a very functional Jeep, which had about as many moving parts (minus the engine) as a full-sized version.
Although very life-like, we’re uncertain how mounting an automatic machine gun to the rear of a Tonka would work.
More Than Just Dump Trucks
You can’t become famous on one product alone. Throughout the 60’s, 70’s, 80’s (and on through today) Tonka produced a full range of construction equipment – including backhoes, plows, cranes, earth diggers/movers and bulldozers.
Some of the people who work real life versions for a living spent hours a day playing with the toy version growing up. Who can guess which is more entertaining to mess around with?
Tonka Service Vehicles
Throughout the 1950’s and 60’s, before the introduction of “Might Dump,” Tonka produced a wide variety or life-like service vehicles. These toys ranged from tow trucks to oil rigs, garbage haulers to milk delivery vans.
As you can see, realistic toys were very popular at this period in history – there was no switch on the bottom to shoot lasers from headlights, or transform the oil rig into a robot.
Tonka Jets
In the 1970’s Tonka took to the skies and produced a special edition FedEx Edition line, including delivery cars and jets! So now, thanks to one toy company, you can prep your kids for a future with a delivery or construction company!
Jokes aside, Tonka has become part of Americana – a 60 year old company whose purpose is to bring excitement to the children of our world with the help of some fun, metal toys.
Photos and information thanks to Wikipedia, Hasbro and TonkaToys.com
I grew up with them at one time I owned a trucking Co and had one on my desk. Things change but still in construction and have been flying Helicopters for over twenty years. At some of the factory schools we even refured to the Tonka in respect to how many built but were sad that you never made a Helicopter. Well I guess the old trucks will have to do.I As a classic car owner SS 454 convertible we see a lot of old Tonkas at the swapmeets. Keep on truckin or flyin..
Tonka Trucks are nearley indestructable!I still have some of my Tonkas Trucks and loaders from the late 60s and early 70s!Iam handing them to my 5 year old nephew!and he loves them very much!I hope this helps.and god bless you and yours.Barry.