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.