Accidental discovery: While working as a naval engineer to stabilize maritime instruments, mechanical engineer Richard James accidentally knocked a spring off a shelf. He was fascinated as it "walked" across the floor.
Development: He spent two years perfecting the spring's tension and balance to create the toy, with his wife Betty coining the name "Slinky".
Public debut: The toy was first sold in November 1945 at a Philadelphia department store, where the first 400 units sold out in just 90 minutes.
Company leadership: In 1960, Richard James left the company to join a cult, and Betty James took over, moving the company to Pennsylvania and leading it to great success.
Modern era: Under Betty's leadership, Slinky became an icon and the company eventually changed owners multiple times. The brand is now owned by Just Play.
