While these vehicles stir the senses, two other modes of transportation say “holiday” like no other. What are the vehicles that prompt both childhood and holiday memories?

Sleds and wagons.  

Sleds for Snowy Fun

For centuries, sleds were among the most efficient ways to transport loads in snowy parts of the world. Distinguished by their long and narrow runner blades, sleds reduced friction and were able to carry heavy loads across the miles.

Today, sleds are not used as much anymore for transport, but they are a symbol of wintry fun. More likely, sleds are used by students on snow-cancelation days or are transported from the garage to the front porch as part of a winter-welcoming decoration for the house’s exterior.

Painted sleds boasting hand-colored images of running horses, reindeer packs, or Santa Claus debuted in the Victorian era, circa mid- to late 1800s. These handsome sleds were used for fancy winter trips for children and adults.

Around 1800, a sled for the purpose of carrying people was invented. Known as a cariole, it featured enclosed sides, a sturdy back, and a partially covered top or hood.

On the secondary antiques market, special 19^th-century examples of cariole sleds and hand-painted sleds with metal runners range in value from $250 to $2,500.

Over time, sleds were used for recreational purposes with variations on the basic form. One of the first sled patents was obtained by the S.L. Allen Company of Philadelphia in 1889.

When it comes to the engineering behind recreational sleds, most had flat runners until about 1907, and then wooden bumpers emerged.

An articulated bumper for steering was introduced in 1928, and straight runners were all the rage until the mid-1930s. One model, the Lightning Speedster, had a rounded wooden front for easy turning by children during its time of manufacture, circa 1939-1942.

By the mid-20^th century, speed was king. The Speed King and Radio Flyer sleds were all about fast-moving wintertime fun. In the American suburbs of the 1950s through the 1970s, many companies introduced cool sleds for hilltop exhilaration.

For instance, in the 1970s, the Radio Flyer Company marketed the Ski Sled, which was intended for adults. The sled had a hand brake for safety, which made parents happy (but which kids rarely used), and two skis beneath the raised seat for a ride that simulated skiing. The two skis allowed for edge turns, and the sled gave a ride that was like experiencing the giant slalom.

Wagons for Winter Travel

Where sleds offered speed, wagons provided comfort. Wooden wagons were some of the most inviting vehicles for children of the 20^th century.

Wagons allowed kids to carry their most important treasures with them wherever the holidays took them. Toys, security blankets, teddy bears, and even baby sisters were hosted in a child’s new and preferably red holiday wagon.

First originating in the early 1900s, Radio Flyer’s little red wagons remain a favorite with kids.

The company was started by Antonio Pasin, an Italian immigrant, with the introduction of the Liberty Coaster wagon, named for the Statue of Liberty. His firm grew throughout the 20^th century to make Radio Flyer wagons known to millions of children.

Today, they show up at yard sales, estate sales, and auctions and bring good market value from collectors and sentimental shoppers.

By the 1950s, the red wagon became an iconic American toy vehicle. At that time, Radio Flyer wagons were marketed to specialty audiences like the Mouseketeers from the Mickey Mouse Club or adventurous kids who wanted to ride in a Davy Crockett-style wagon.

Steiff, the popular German toy and teddy bear manufacturer, manufactured wagons featuring their teddy bear logo to accommodate every child’s holiday gift haul of toys. This marketing strategy helped the collectibles market for the wagons, prompting many collectors to add them to a long list of must-haves.

By the end of the 1960s, Radio Flyer had turned 50 and introduced the Skat Racer to a dedicated audience. The Skat Racer was a new children’s vehicle that offered innovations where the earlier pedal cars fell short.

Kids of the trendy 1960s and 1970s could, in a Skat Racer, enjoy a lightweight design, a safe ride, and a sleek new look. This vehicle was a perfect addition to the host of cool toys parked in many suburban America garages.

Move over, pedal cars: Sleds and wagons are making a comeback. Happy holidays!

Ph.D. antiques appraiser, author, and award-winning media personality Dr. Lori presents antique appraisal events nationwide and appears on Netflix’s King of Collectibles and History channel’s The Curse of Oak Island and Pawn Stars Do America. Visit drloriv.com, watch videos at youtube.com/drloriv, or call (888) 431-1010.