Pre‑War American Classic Pedal Car
Overview
The 1937 Garton Pontiac pedal car is a highly collectible pre‑war children’s ride-on toy produced in the United States during the late 1930s. Manufactured by the Garton Toy Company, the pedal car was designed to resemble the styling of full‑size Pontiac automobiles of the era, capturing the distinctive design language of pre‑war American cars.
The pedal car features a pressed steel body, functional steering wheel, metal wheels with rubber tires, and a pedal‑driven drivetrain. Its prominent grille, sweeping fenders, running boards, and rounded body panels mirror the elegant styling of late‑1930s automobiles. Today, surviving examples are considered prized collectibles among vintage toy and pedal car enthusiasts.
Year / Model / Origin
Era: Circa 1937
Type: Pedal-powered children’s ride-on automobile
Design Features
- Classic late‑1930s Pontiac automobile styling
- Prominent front grille inspired by Pontiac vehicles of the era
- Large rounded fenders and running boards
- Functional steering wheel and pedal drivetrain
- Steel body construction typical of pre‑war toy manufacturing
- Decorative chrome trim and period‑correct detailing
Production
Garton Toy Company was one of the leading American manufacturers of pedal cars during the 1930s and 1940s. Their vehicles were constructed from durable stamped steel and designed to reflect the styling of real automobiles of the time. The Pontiac‑styled pedal car represents one of the more recognizable pre‑war designs produced by the company. Because many examples were heavily used by children, well‑preserved or professionally restored cars are increasingly rare and desirable among collectors.
Restoration Highlights
- Automotive quality period‑correct paint finish
- Restored grille and Pontiac‑style trim
- Magnetic dials/dash elements
- Horn and custom horn bracket
- Custom leather interior and seat detailing
- Working modern LED headlights
- Refinished steel wheels with rubber tires
- Rebuilt pedal drivetrain and steering system
- Period‑style license plate and decals
- 1953 Alberta License plate
Company History — Garton Toy Company
The Garton Toy Company was founded in Sheboygan, Wisconsin and became one of the most important American manufacturers of children’s ride‑on toys in the early 20th century. The company produced pedal cars, wagons, scooters, and tricycles that were distributed throughout North America.
During the 1930s, Garton produced a series of pedal cars inspired by contemporary automobiles, including models styled after Pontiac and other popular American brands. These toys were built from stamped steel and designed to be both durable and visually similar to the cars seen on American roads. Today, Garton pedal cars are considered classic examples of early American toy manufacturing.
Estimated Market Value (2026 Market Observations)
Professionally restored / excellent examples: Approximately $2,000 – $4,000 CAD.
Value depends heavily on:
- Originality and completeness of parts
- Condition of steel body panels and grille
- Quality of restoration and paint finish
- Functionality of steering and pedal drivetrain
- Authenticity of trim, decals, and hardware
- Provenance and overall display quality