Meccano is a vintage toy and game that has been beloved by generations of children and adults alike. The iconic building sets, which consist of metal strips, plates, wheels, gears, and other parts that can be assembled into complex mechanical models, were first introduced in England in 1901 by Frank Hornby.

Hornby, a Liverpool-based clerk, was inspired to create Meccano after watching his children play with a set of wooden blocks. He wanted to create a toy that would allow children to build more complex and realistic models, and that would also teach them the principles of engineering and mechanics.

The first Meccano sets were made of metal strips, plates, and nuts and bolts, and were sold in small cardboard boxes. The sets were an instant success, and soon became one of the most popular toys in England.

Over the years, Meccano evolved to include a wide range of parts and accessories, including gears, motors, and even electrical components. The sets also became more elaborate and sophisticated, with models that could be powered by electricity or even steam.

During World War II, Meccano production was temporarily suspended due to wartime restrictions on metal usage, but the company bounced back after the war with a new line of sets that included plastic parts.

Despite the popularity of newer and more high-tech toys and games, Meccano has remained a beloved classic, with generations of enthusiasts continuing to build complex and intricate models using the classic metal strips and nuts and bolts.

In recent years, the popularity of vintage and retro toys has led to a resurgence of interest in Meccano, with collectors and hobbyists seeking out rare and vintage sets and models. Today, Meccano continues to inspire creativity, curiosity, and a love of engineering and mechanics in children and adults around the world. The History of Meccano – Vintage toys and games