Good Morning POU!
Yep, the stores are already putting up the wreaths and bows and getting geared up for the holiday season! We continue to look at toy makers and manufacturers that create toys and dolls that celebrate African Americans!
History In Action (HIA) Toys
Starting at age seven, Sterling Ashby was an avid collector of comic books. In fact, he loved collecting comic books so much, he braved a 20 minute bus ride with his five year old sister in tow to downtown Philadelphia just to get the latest issue in his favorite series. His fondness for collecting and a Christmas shopping experience inspired him to create his own collectible. In 2003, he was shopping for a Christmas present for a friend’s son and wanted to buy an unusual toy. He finally purchased a doll of a famous scientist and was struck by the toy’s educational quality.
When the child opened the toy, he looked at his father, asking him who this person was. His father explained that he was a famous scientist and the boy stared at the doll in amazement. Later, he put the toy in a special place in his room. Seeing the excitement and wonder on the boy’s face gave Sterling an idea. Using real heroes from history, he created a series of action figures that were fun, positive role models, whose real-life stories would awaken both a child’s imagination and appeal to the kid within us all. History in Action Toys was born!
Currently they offer the Bessie Coleman “Fearless Fly Girl”, Matthew Alexander Henson “Trailblazer” and Benjamin Banneker “Stargazer” action figures. But they hope to add three more next season and ask for suggestions on new action figures via the website. So please visit and suggest other great figures from our history for creation!
Visit HIA TOYS for ordering!