Thornbury's Toys: Memories and Memorabilia: 1950s

Founded by Jim and Mary Thornbury in Louisville, Kentucky, in 1954, Thornbury's Toys was initially a true "mom and pop" shop. After expanding a few times they outgrew the first store located at 117 Breckinridge Lane in St. Matthews and opened a new store nearby at 4101 Shelbyville Rd. in 1960. This store became headquarters. Thornbury's, incorporated in 1965, grew year after year, peaking in the mid 1980's with stores in Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi, Florida, Ohio and Alabama. The formula for success: customer service, high "play-value" toys and bikes, and a strong management team combined with Uncle Jim's entrepreneurial and promotional flair, love of children, understanding of his customers, attention to detail, and loving family. Uncle Jim's motto was "the customer is always right". The company mascot, Thorny the monkey, who pedaled his bike day and night atop the St. Matthews store, also helped Thornbury's stand out.

Showing posts with label 1950s. Show all posts

Wednesday, March 25, 2015

Thornbury's Toys Sponsored Little League Football and Baseball Teams

Look at this young sport getting ready for the big baseball game! He proudly wears his new uniform sponsored by Thornbury's Toys. I'll bet the games were played at the St. Matthews Community Center behind Ten Pin Bowling Lanes. This picture appears to be taken in the late 50's.

Monday, January 19, 2015

Thornbury's Toys Begins Selling Schwinn Bicycles in 1956

Jerry Thornbury, son of Uncle Jim Thornbury proudly displays a new Schwinn Bicycle.

According to the Schwinn Reporter, January 1958, Thornbury's sold 499 Schwinn bicycles (their first year of selling Schwinn bikes) and substantially more the next year.