Enigmatic and nostalgic, the rocking horse can open magical doors for children and adults alike. Adults sit back, watching children play, and remember the special times they had on their own horse. Rocking horses will forever symbolize childhood and its fantastic memories. Despite the gizmo like toys for children and modern decor for the home, a rocking horse still tops the list of toys to give and display.

Historically, carved rocking horses have existed since the medieval era. The sculptured rocking horse made its debut in New England in the 19th century. At this point carved rocking horses gained appreciation. They continued to gain widespread popularity throughout the century. Craftsmen added real horsehair manes and tales to make the horse appear rational. Though made of wood, many offered a comfortable ride thanks to added padding. The horses received cloth saddles and reins to authenticate them as horses.

Since the American Civil War, the horse's appearance has changed, becoming more antique looking. Unlike before the war, assembly line manufacturers began mass producing the rocking horses. Today the rocking horse has become much more diversified. Experimental versions have popped up like with other vintage toys.

Colors, design, materials, and purpose vary from the conventional horse, with the colors stretching from the antique white to gaudy and bright colors. Design has also become broader, with more than the horse put on the curved rails. Designers use other rocking animals to appeal to the wide audience of consumers. Materials have varied as well, with fabric, leather, plastic, the finest hardwood, and the likes making up the design. Designers have begun to focus on more than just wood and a real horse mane in the form of the rocking horse.

Finally, the purpose of the rocking horse has grown. Not just limited to fun and a thrill ride, the rocking horse has become an educational tool, used to teach children essentials like toilet etiquette. Thanks to the rocking horse toilet, children can now learn to do their business while riding a horse. Apparently the toy teaches children proper ways of using a toilet.

Realistic looking rocking horses and accessories still exist, like saddles, bridles and tail. Online manufacturers specialize in these toys, but you must make sure that you find a reputable dealer. Purchase the horses in good condition and with warranties so you can return them should they arrive defective. Unique rocking horses also abound thanks to creative manufacturers. For a mere $200 you can come home with a custom made horse. However, the best ones can cost up to $3500.

These one of a kind toys have lasted centuries for a reason. So the next time you're scratching your noggin in search of a great toy for your grandkid, consider the timeless and priceless rocking horse.

Article Source: http://www.my-article-dashboard.com

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Florida. Find more about this as well as Rocking Horses at www.rockinghorseplus.com

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