Britains toys

William Britains Ltd. history

Established by William Britain in 1845 at Hornsey (north London). One of William's sons developed the art of producing lead figures for which the company became famed with its wide range of military models and farm animals.Motorised transport was also included in the range, in the chosen scale of 1/32nd, not only to complement the military and farm figures, but also including a few civilian vehicles.

More unusual in the military field were not only aircraft, but such items as motorbikes.

An OO gauge range was also developed, which for a time appeared under the name of W. Horton Ltd, a subsidiary of Britains. The range was known as Britains Liliput, and was intended to complement Trix Twin model railways. People, animals and vehicles were produced, including Bedford and Fordson lorries.

Other notable items include a Coronation Coach and figures produced to mark the American Bicentennial.

In more recent years the company has concentrated on its military and agricultural models. In 1987, as part of the Dobson Industries Group, the name was changed to Britains-Petite, revealing the association with Petite Typewriters.

The brand is now owned by Ertl, which uses the Britains' name for its collectables ranges.