Its RED

[953 nut 57,471]

Little Red Wagon Day on every last Wednesday in March, on March 26 this year, is a token of appreciation for those cheerful, airy rides in a little red car pulled by moms or dads on a summer afternoon. If you’ve sailed in a red wagon on Independence Day parades or were pushed in a toy red van in your childhood, it’s time to relive those memories and make some more.

The little red wagon is a vivid part of every childhood. Bright, small, and pushed by an adult, the time spent riding in a red wagon is unforgettable. Little Red Wagon Day was founded by the parent company of the red wagon, Radio Flyer, to honor 100 years of manufacturing one of the most popular and favorite toys for kiddos.

The history of the little wagon dates back to 1917, which is way before the company was even named Radio Flyer. Antonio Pasin, the founder of Radio Flyer, was a carpenter who made phonograph cabinets and used a small wagon to store his tools. Catching the eyes of many, people were intrigued by the little wagon. The increasing demand for the small cart originally used as a toolbox led Pasin to begin manufacturing the wagons. The first name of Pasin’s newfound company in 1923 was the Liberty Coaster Company. Picking up the pace, it was renamed Radio Steel & Manufacturing in 1930 with its advanced version of steel stamped wagons and finally settled on Radio Flyer a few years later.

The booming popularity of the little red wagon increased after the Chicago World’s Fair in 1933, where Pasin built a 45-feet tall statue of a boy riding the red wagon. Known as the world’s largest red wagon, Radio Flyer used it to celebrate their 80th- and then their 100th anniversary to pay tribute to the only outdoor toy that’s been passed down to generations. The little red wagon has since brought smiles, fostered imaginations, and had a healthy, positive impact on little kids. On every last Wednesday in March, we rekindle fond memories and celebrate the classic American toy.

 

 

[ri702bill 8,903]

For decades, the Radio Flyer wagon was manufactured here in the USA. It was even a featured item on the cable tv show "Made in America". But, shortly after the episode was taped, manufacturing was offshored to Cheaponesia..

Edited March 26 by ri702bill

[SylvanLakeWH 27,176]

Custom  version:

[Handy Don 13,256]

I just converted the front steering on the wagon I restored for some of my grandchildren. Originally the single axle-full pivot style. (see the photo above!), the wagon too frequently tipped over when turned sharply. The new system is automotive (or Wheel Horse ) style with spindles and tie rods no more tipping! 

The new chassis came from a shop in Ontario, Millside Industries. They sell complete wagons as well as chassis kits. Since I already had usable wheels/tires, they were willing to sell just the chassis parts. Good quality, easily installed, happy grandchildren (and their parents). 

[D_Mac 9,034]

Here are my 2 Radio Flyers. A friend of mine and I made these a few years ago. I used to push / pull my nieces kids around at car shows. They have long since out grew them. They need to go to new home for more memories.

[adsm08 2,556]

On 3/27/2025 at 6:57 PM, D_Mac said:

Here are my 2 Radio Flyers. A friend of mine and I made these a few years ago. I used to push / pull my nieces kids around at car shows. They have long since out grew them. They need to go to new home for more memories.

 

Those are pretty awesome.