Moments of Play: Six Stories of Toys at Historic Sites by Priya Chhaya (June 2026)

In 1995, Pixar released the first Toy Story movie, forever connecting a generation of adults and children to Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Rex, Slinky, Mr. Potato Head, Bo Peep, and Hamm. Told from the perspective of the toys, the film shared a message of connection, joy, and growing up—tackling complicated themes along the way.

As the film depicts, toys were meant for entertainment but throughout history they also shaped socialization skills, good behavior, and creativity. They could range from expensive mass-market toys to handmade toys made out of household items. And as certain toys went in and out of fashion, they became collectible for adults drawn back by nostalgia.

Here are six toy “stories” from National Trust Historic Sites and sites that are part of the National Trust’s Historic Artists’ Homes and Studios program. Each shows the different roles toys play in building connection and joy.