Aviation toys helped to inspire a generation of children to become interested in aviation. In 1910 the Dowst Brothers Company began producing toy airplane models for children. By the late 1930s, hundreds of models had been produced under the Tootsietoy brand name, many of which were related to aviation. This airplane hangar was part of the Tootsietoy Airport boxed set (No. 5100) introduced in 1931, which also contained two models of Ford Tri-Motor airplanes.
Thousands of African American children were inspired to pursue a career in aviation as a pilot, mechanic or business leader as a result of the tireless work of African American visionary William J. Powell, Jr.
