Illfelder Importing Company Explained

Illfelder Importing Company (formerly Berolzheimer, Illfelder & Co.), was an American toy company, founded in 1856, that created toys like "Squirmles" and "Good Time Charlie".^[1]

Timeline

• 1856: Leopold Illfelder and Daniel Berolzheimer founded the Vera-Bleistift-Fabrik pencil factory in Fürth, Bavaria, Germany.
• 1858: Daniel Berolzheimer died, and was replaced by his son, Heinrich Berolzheimer.
• 1861: A US branch, Berolzheimer, Illfelder & Co. was created in New York City.
• 1860s-70s: Work with pencils, stationery, and importing at 60 John Street.
• c.1870: Name shortened to B. Illfelder & Co.
• 1888: Death of Bernhard Illfelder.
• 1938: Move to 131 East 23rd st.

Notable People

• Leopold Illfelder - Co-founded the original pencil company in 1856
• Daniel Berolzheimer - Co-founded the original pencil company in 1856
• Heinrich Berolzheimer (1836-1906) - Son of founder Daniel Berolzheimer, took over his father's role after his death.
• Bernhard Illfelder (1842-1888) - Came to the U.S. in 1864. Stepson of Leopold. Brother of Max.
• Max Illfelder (1854-1943) - Brother of Bernhard.

Products

Squirmles

Good Time Charlie

References

1. Web site: 14 to 42 - 23rd Street. www.14to42.net. 2019-12-04.