Inventor: John Lloyd Wright
Lincoln Logs were invented by John Lloyd Wright, the son of the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright, in 1916. They were inspired by the interlocking beams used in the construction of Tokyo's Imperial Hotel.
Inspired by Earthquake Engineering
John Lloyd Wright's idea for Lincoln Logs came from the innovative earthquake-proof design of the Imperial Hotel in Tokyo, which his father designed. The hotel's interlocking structure influenced the design of the wooden toy.
Named After Abraham Lincoln
Lincoln Logs were named in honor of President Abraham Lincoln, who was famously born in a log cabin. This connection helped market the toy as a symbol of American ingenuity and pioneer spirit.
Original Sets Included Instructions
Early Lincoln Logs sets came with instructions to build not just cabins, but also elaborate structures like the Tokyo Imperial Hotel. This educational aspect was meant to inspire creativity and architectural interest in children.
Toy Hall of Fame
Lincoln Logs were inducted into the National Toy Hall of Fame in 1999, recognizing their enduring popularity and educational value. They remain a beloved classic, fostering creativity and design skills in children for over a century.Survived Earthquake Unscathed
The Tokyo Imperial Hotel, inspiring Lincoln Logs, withstood a 1923 earthquake without damage, proving the strength of its interlocking beam design.
Who invented Lincoln Logs?
John Lloyd Wright
Frank Lloyd Wright
Abraham Lincoln
Company
