Sleigh Bells Ring By Ken Foust

THE HOLIDAYS will soon be on us, and every child will dream of all the wonderful things Santa will bring. How does Santa know who’s been naughty or nice? Can reindeer really fly? And just how does the man in red visit so many houses in only one night? One thing is certain however; at least on this side of the Big Pond. He brings everyone’s gifts in a sleigh drawn by reindeer. If you doubt it, reread American Clement Moore’s timeless classic, “A Visit from Saint Nicholas.” It’s all in there.

While it may be difficult for small children (and some adults) to understand it’s more blessed to give than to receive, various American toymakers guessed there would be a market for toy sleighs, complete with Santa and a few of his reindeer. Examples of their work can be found in paper and wood, cast iron, and lithographed tin. Photographs and descriptions of sleighs from three different manufacturers help give a better idea of how successful their designs were.

Explore more collector stories, vintage toy highlights, and market insights in the Antique Toy World Magazine – November 2026

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