ACT Museum

Along the Rock River in Watertown, WI, George B. Lewis and his brother Robert E. Lewis purchased a mill in 1863. The brothers produced lumber that was used to manufacture blinds, doors, and window sashes. Seven years later, Robert retired leaving George as the business’s sole owner until 1878 when he was joined by his son-in-law, forming the Lewis & Parks Company. In 1890, the business became known as the G.B. Lewis Company after the death of Parks. George C. Lewis took over the company after the death of his father (G.B. Lewis) in 1903.

The company prospered with an ever expanding selection of wood products including shipping crates, commercial-grade golf ball washers, airplane propellers, beeware, and toys. Arkitoy, similar to Erector sets (invented in 1913), was the company’s most successful toy. Each wooden construction set consisted of wooden strips and wheels with holes for screw and bolt connections. Green and red colored elements were quickly added to the toy. Originally, four sets were produced from 1928 through the 1930s, sold at a cost of $1-$5. Set No. 5 began sales in 1931. These sets were much more affordable than Erector toys, which often cost over $10. After WWII, the G.B. Lewis Company shifted to manufacturing plastic products.

Carrom Industries, Inc. of Ludington, MI produced a similar Arkitoy Wood Construction Set in the 1940s. While it’s unknown how this toy line was started, it’s possible that Carrom was inspired from the G.B. Lewis Company.