Homemade Toys

Matchbox Train

A tiny, multi-segmented pull-toy built by younger children.

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Category
Homemade Toys
Materials
Empty matchboxes, thread or thin wire, and small seeds or pebbles.

How It's Played

A tiny, multi-segmented pull-toy built by younger children. Empty wooden or cardboard matchboxes are linked together end-to-end using thread or wire. Small pebbles or dried seeds are placed inside each drawer as "cargo," and the train is pulled along the floor or across dirt pathways.

Cultural Roots

A domestic toy that encouraged imaginative narrative play and early mechanical coordination among toddlers using small household containers.

Did You Play Matchbox Train?

Wherever you grew up — Kingston, Montego Bay, Brooklyn, Toronto, London, Miami — if you remember playing this, we want to hear from you. Send us your story, your photos, or an old video. Every submission helps preserve this game for the next generation.

Photos and stories may be featured on this page and across our social channels (with credit to you).

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