The Slinky Toy
Clifton Heights, Delaware County, Pennsylvania
Marker Inscription
Invented in 1943 by Richard James and named by his wife Betty, the Slinky was manufactured here at James Industries until 1965. In 1960 Richard left his family and gave control of the nearly bankrupt company to Betty. Betty turned the company into a multimillion-dollar enterprise with worldwide distribution. In 2001 she was inducted into the Toy Industry Hall of Fame. The Slinky was one of the most popular toys of the 20th century.
Erected by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
The Story
A coiled steel spring that could "walk" down stairs became one of the twentieth century's most beloved toys — and it was made right here. Richard James stumbled onto the idea in 1943, his wife Betty gave it the name Slinky, and James Industries manufactured it in Clifton Heights for decades. When Richard walked away in 1960 and left a nearly bankrupt firm to Betty, she rebuilt it into a multimillion-dollar enterprise, later earning a place in the Toy Industry Hall of Fame.
Why it matters
The Slinky is a small monument to American invention and to Betty James, a woman who salvaged and grew a company in an era when few women led them.
Plan your visit
NearbyMake a day of it — museums, food, and places to stay near this marker.
Museums & culture
- Bridgette Mayer7.7 mi away · 709 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
- African American Museum in Philadelphia7.9 mi away · 701 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Congress Hall7.9 mi away · Philadelphia, PA
- Liberty Bell Center7.9 mi away · 526 Market Street, Philadelphia
- Independence Hall7.9 mi away · 520 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Philosophical Hall7.9 mi away · PA
Attractions
- American Bandstand4.9 mi away
- Philadelphia Zoo6.1 mi away
- Pennsylvania Railroad, Connecting Railway Bridge6.3 mi away
- Discovery Center at East Park Reservoir6.6 mi away
- Rocky Steps6.7 mi away
- Commandant's Quarters6.7 mi away
Food & drink
- Talula's Garden7.7 mi away · 210 West Washington Square, Philadelphia, PA
- Talula's Daily7.7 mi away · 208 West Washington Square, Philadelphia, PA
- Fat Salmon7.7 mi away · 719 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Munchie’s Cafe7.7 mi away · 728 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Philly Pretzel Factory7.7 mi away
- Maya's Pizza & Grill7.7 mi away · 716 Sansom Street, Philadelphia, PA
Places to stay
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Philadelphia Center City7.2 mi away · 237 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Cambria Hotel Philadelphia Downtown - Center City7.2 mi away · 219 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Fairfield Inn & Suites7.2 mi away · 261 South 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Holiday Inn Express7.3 mi away · 1305-11 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Alexander Inn7.3 mi away · 301 301 South 12th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, Philadelphia, PA
- Residence Inn Philadelphia Center City7.3 mi away · 1 East Penn Square, Philadelphia, PA
Places data © OpenStreetMap contributors. Hours and details change — call ahead.
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Related people
- · Richard James
- · Betty James
Themes & tags
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