Pollock Toy Museum

Pollock’s Toy Museum, located in London, is an extraordinary collection of historical toys that offers a window into the past of children’s entertainment and popular culture. Founded by Marguerite Fawdry in the 1950s, the museum was born out of Fawdry’s passion for toy theaters, an interest that turned into a vast and varied collection of toys from different eras and parts of the world. The museum’s history dates back to the 19th century, when John Kilby Green began printing and selling toy theaters, miniature versions of real theaters that allowed children to stage performances in their homes. Upon Green’s death, his business was taken over by Benjamin Pollock, whose name the museum still carries today. Pollock continued the tradition of toy theaters, producing and selling these fascinating objects until the mid-20th century. During World War II, Pollock’s production suffered a blow, but thanks to Marguerite Fawdry’s dedication, the tradition was saved and expanded with the acquisition of numerous other historical toys.Pollock’s Toy Museum is not just a tribute to toy theaters, but a celebration of the history of toys in general. The museum’s collection includes over 4,000 toys, including Victorian dolls, tin soldiers, board games, puppets, and even a clay mouse from ancient Egypt, dating back to around 4,000 years ago. Each object tells a story and reflects the evolution of materials, design, and toy production technologies over the centuries.One of the most fascinating aspects of Pollock’s Toy Museum is its environment. The museum is housed in two historic buildings in the Fitzrovia district, characterized by narrow stairs and winding corridors that add an intimate and almost magical atmosphere to the visit. Each room is a treasure trove of discovery, with toys displayed in a way that evokes the era in which they were created. The building itself, with its architectural peculiarities and ancient charm, contributes to making the museum experience unique and unforgettable.The museum has faced numerous challenges over the years. Recently, it had to temporarily close its doors due to financial difficulties and the need to find a new location. However, the museum’s managers are determined to keep this valuable institution alive, launching fundraising campaigns and seeking new spaces to reopen and continue sharing their extraordinary collection with the public.An interesting anecdote concerns the founder Marguerite Fawdry, who acquired the collection of toy theaters after a chance conversation with an accountant. While looking for a spare part for her son’s toy theater, she was told that there were hundreds of thousands of pieces in stock, but no one able to manage them. Fawdry then decided to purchase the entire stock, thus saving a historical tradition and laying the foundation for the museum it would become.