The Knickerbocker Toy & dolls Company was founded by Dutch immigrants named Van Whye. The firm's name was derived from Knickerbocker, a nickname given to Dutch immigrants. Later, the family decided to change their name to Knickerbocker. At first, the company was known for educational toys and wooden puzzles.
Knickerbocker acquired the exclusive rights in the 1930s from International Feature Service, Inc. to manufacture Krazy Kat and Ignatz Mouse toys. The company is also known for their pluche Disney characters and their Good Luck Bear. In the 1980s, Lionel Train Company took over Knickerbocker Toy Company and, with Lionel Train Company filing for bankruptcy in 1984, the line discontinued.
The Knickerbocker Toy Co. is probably best known for their Walt Disney character dolls, the Raggedy Ann & Andy and the Holly Hobbie cloth dolls. Dolls are usually of good quality and were made of cloth, composition and vinyl.
Knickerbocker was sold to Hasbro in 1984.