Selects: How Slinky Works | STUFF YOU SHOULD KNOW

Summary

In this engaging and informative episode of Stuff You Should Know, hosts Charles W. "Chuck" Bryant and Josh Clark delve into the fascinating world of Slinky, one of the most iconic and beloved classic toys. They explore the origins, development, and success surrounding the captivating spring toy.

The story begins with the accidental discovery of Slinky by Richard Thompson James, a mechanical engineer who was inspired to create a toy utilizing this unique spring mechanism after knocking over springs in his workshop. Richard spent a year refining the spring's mechanism, size, and tension to achieve its signature arching motion, ultimately crafting the original Slinky from high-carbon steel and adhering to Hooke's Law in physics.

Once Richard had perfected his prototype, he took it to the neighborhood kids, who were instantly enamored with the toy. Realizing its potential, Richard turned to his wife, Betty, to find the perfect name for their creation, and she discovered "Slinky" in the dictionary. Eager to share their new toy with the world, Richard and Betty started the James Spring and Wire Company with a $500 loan to manufacture Slinkys, made from 2.5-inch-tall high-carbon steel containing 80 feet of wire.

While the toy initially struggled to find an audience, a turning point occurred when Richard demonstrated Slinky's charm at a local department store, which led to an explosion of sales and immense popularity. By the time they took their invention to the American Toy Fair, Slinky had become such an exciting and in-demand product that it sold over 100 million units within its first two years.

Chuck and Josh continue to discuss the company's expansion and introduction of the plastic Slinky in the 1960s, as well as the various licensing deals and innovations that have kept Slinky relevant over the years. They also delve into the company's financial struggles and eventual takeover by Richard's wife, Betty, who was instrumental in reviving the brand with the introduction of plastic Slinkys and the famous, longest-running Slinky jingle.

Having been sold to Poof Products in 1998, Slinky continues to be a familiar household name today, with its enduring popularity bolstered by memorable appearances in films such as "Toy Story." As Chuck and Josh recount the captivating journey of Slinky, it is clear why this iconic toy has stood the test of time and continues to enchant generations of children and adults alike. Overall, this episode offers a fascinating exploration of the history, science, and enduring appeal of one of the world's most beloved toys.