Tricorn hats were popular military and civilian fashion during the 18th century and are still common headgear here in Williamsburg, Virginia today.
Many military uniforms during this time were borne from civilian attire. During the American Revolution, many American and British soldiers wore the tricorne as a part of their uniform. Soldiers often wore the tricorn hat with the front corner directly over the left eye. This allowed them to carry their long-barreled muskets with ease.
Some military units would adorn their hats with cockades or colorful pieces of cloth. They would wear different colors of trim on their tricorn hats or plumes of different colors. These colorful embellishments distinguished them from other regiments.
The tricorne fell out of style by 1800 but is still a favorite fashion here in Williamsburg, VA.

The Toymaker of Williamsburg and W. Britain Annual Open House is just a month away!
When: Friday October 12, 2012 3:00-6:00p.m.
Where: The Toymaker of Williamsburg on Merchants Square
Highlights:
Read more details about this exciting Toymaker of Williamsburg and W. Britain Open House on our blog now!

Need a place for all those new back to school knick knacks? How about jars with animal toppers! Click through for a fun tutorial!
The fourth annual Military History Weekend will take place this October 13-14!
Attendees can look forward to a variety of events and exhibits including:
View full details on our official website now! Military History Weekend

Douglas Co. has been a family-owned and operated business for almost 60 years. It has become one of the oldest and most respected plush companies in the United States. One look at a Douglas Cuddle Toy and it is no wonder why!
Douglas the Cuddle Toy
Douglas Co. puts a strong emphasis on promoting imaginative play and emotional connection through their products. The company attributes the success of their business to distinctive designs, high quality materials, and craftsmanship. Douglas plush toys have unique gestures and endearing expressions that clearly distinguish them as Douglas. The toy line is also known for the variety of their product offering. They create cuddly toys out of unusual breeds and hard to find species. Douglas has enjoyed continuing success and the company has grown internationally. Today, Douglas is sold in Canada, Europe, Asia, and Australia.
Read more about Douglas Cuddle Toys and check out a great selection of Douglas Plush on our official site now!
http://www.toymakerofwilliamsburg.com/blog/douglas-the-cuddle-toy/

Robert E. Lee
Robert E. Lee is well known for the role he played in the American Civil War, especially for his success in The Second Battle of Bull Run and the Battle of Chancellorsville.
Robert E. Lee attended West Point in 1825. After graduating, he served the US military in Georgia, New York, Texas, Virginia and Mexico. In 1852, Lee was given the job of superintendent of West Point.
On April 18, 1861, Lee was offered the position of field command of the US Army. When Lee learned that Virginia seceded from the Union he resigned from the US Army and took the position as commander of Virginia forces.
In 1965, he was given the title General-In-Chief of all Confederate Armies. Later that same year, he surrendered to Ulysses S Grant at the Appomattox Court House effectively ending the Civil War.
Represent this iconic Civil War general in your toy soldier collection. See our General Lee toy soldiers or read more about Lee on our blog today!
Good Night iPad, written by Ann Droyd, is a parody for the next generation.
In a bright buzzing room, in the glow of the moon-and iPhones and Androids and Blackberries too-it is time to say goodnight…
Modern life is abuzz. Gigantic TVs, friend requests, constant texts and addicting video clips have become standard in our constantly connected lives. Wouldn’t it be nice to say goodnight to all that? This book is a reminder for the child in all of us to power down at the end of the day. This hilarious parody not only pokes loving fun at the bygone quiet of the original classic, but also at our modern plugged-in lives. It will make you laugh, and it will also help you put yourself and your machines to sleep. Don’t worry, though. Your gadgets will be waiting for you, fully charged, in the morning!
Say goodnight to your iPad…and cell phone…and computer…and television with this perfect parody. Read Good Night iPad today!


We can’t resist playing with all of the collectible toy soldiers that live on our second floor.
“Oh, I am heartily tired of hearing what Lee is going to do. Some of you always seem to think he is suddenly going to turn a double somersault and land in our rear and on both of our flanks at the same time.” Is a real quote said by Ulysses S. Grant during the Virginia Campaign of The Civil War. It has not been noted that General Robert E. Lee in fact turned that double somersault but we like to imagine what it would have been like if he had!
Read more about Grant and the Virginia Campaign on our blog now. If this image left you laughing, spread and share TOYmaker TALK!
http://www.toymakerofwilliamsburg.com/blog/ulysses-s-grant-in-the-civil-war/
This Civil War themed summer gaming event will take place August 10-12 in Williamsburg, VA. The focus of the event will be “1862: A House Divided”. Read more about all of the exciting events at the convention on our blog now!
Madame Beatrice Alexander Behrman founded the Alexander Doll Company in 1923 on the belief that dolls should engage the imagination, bring happiness, and teach kids about the world. Almost 90 years later, The Alexander Doll Company still supports that vision by creating a collection of award winning dolls that have enchanted children and collectors worldwide.
The Toymaker of Williamsburg just made some exciting new additions to our collection of Madame Alexander dolls. See our new additions and eagerly anticipated arrivals below.
Browse our entire collection of Madame Alexander Dolls on our official site now!