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17/09/2021 6:14 pm
I confess that I like my Tootsietoys, even though I realize they do not meet the standards of 1/43 models in size, complexity, or most any other measure. But here's an exception:
After World War II ended (1945) and metals became available for toys, Tootsietoy resumed production of their dime store cars. First, they just used the same molds and presses that had been in storage for years, but then Tootsietoy management decided to try some different things. One of these was a line of larger cars, including this six inch station wagon that attempted to resemble the 1948 Buick. Please take note that this is a single pressing production. But it has a three step painting process to strive for realism: the body (red), the grill & bumpers (silver), and the wood (a yellow/brown/tan).
Looking up a different Tootsie in Weiland & Force, TOOTSIETOYS: WORLD'S FIRST DIECAST MODELS, I found this comment under the Buick's picture:
"1948 Buick Super Estate Wagon. The Rarest six-inch."
Just thought some of you who are lucky enough to have Brooklin's fine Buick woody might appreciate this forerunner. I don't, but here's the Tootsie version beside Brooklin's DeSoto wagon in a similar color combination:
David H 
(PS: I wouldn't swap my Tootsie Buick for a BRK.)
17/09/2021 6:57 pm
Excellent post, David, and informative. Thanks!
John Kuvakas
Warrenton, VA
Karl Schnelle and Karl Schnelle reacted
17/09/2021 7:56 pm
To a young kid, this Buick woody wagon, would be exactly like Dad's 1948 wagon ! His delight and his imagination would more than fill in any shortcomings in precise detail and he would proudly feel he had a wonderful replica of his family's (or anyone's) Buick station wagon.
17/09/2021 11:06 pm
That is really cool. I remember my Dad had one of these in a box of old toys. I am not sure what happened to it.
John Merritt
South Lyon, Michigan - USA
18/09/2021 12:21 am
Most of the toys that I played with in the mid to late 1950's were passed down to me from my uncle and older brother. As a result, I had metal cars and trucks from the 1930s and 1940s to play with. Many were Tootsie toys. Although I never had the Buick woody wagon, I do remember most of the others. Unfortunately, they all went out in the garbage when I outgrew them and only the memories remain.
Thanks for your post David.Your commentary into the company's history and events of the time greatly adds to the pictures.