Even if the telephones of today look much different, modern kids still love this friendly low-tech toy, which Fisher-Price released in 1961. Now available in more modern iterations, the classic look is still popular with kids (and their parents —and their parents’ parents!) at Mast General Store on Main Street.
“Part of our charm is that we offer things that take you back in time, and it’s a family affair when you come to Mast General,” says general manager Jordin McKee. “Grandparents love to see our old-fashioned candy and toys, and for parents, it’s the same thing. Then that gets the kids excited, too.”
The Chatter Phone is definitely among the more popular items, both for browsing and for purchasing, she says. “All of those Fisher-Price toys are big eye-catchers,” she says.
Talk Back Phone
Though interactive means something different today, back then it meant eyes that roll, a rotary dial that rings and blue wheels that help the toy keep up with — or at least drag along behind — active kids.
Originally called the Talk Back Telephone, it didn’t sell well until the name was changed, according to Bruce Fox, a former Fisher-Price employee, in a CBS report. The theory was that parents didn’t want to buy a toy that encouraged kids to talk back. When the company changed the name to Chatter Phone, sales took off, and it became the company’s top-selling toy into the 1970s.
In 2000, the company switched out the rotary dial for more modern push buttons, and so many people complained the company reverted to its beloved spinning dial.
In a real sign of the times, Fisher-Price now offers My Home Office, which allows kids to pretend to hold Zoom calls and even comes with a headset and a pretend latte!
You can get the new version that looks old but beware of the shorter cord (for safety) and plastic construction instead of the original wood. Vintage versions are available on eBay in the $10-20 range, depending on condition.
Do you have a favorite toy, game, collection or item from your childhood that brings back fond memories? Let us know at leigh@communityjournals.com. We may feature your item – and you – in an upcoming issue!
