SPARTANBURG – A special exhibit, “Toys of Christmas Past,” will run through Friday, Dec. 31, at the Spartanburg County Regional Museum.

Most of the toys in the exhibit were made between the years 1915 and 1945. Originally toys were miniatures of items used by adults and were used to teach a child.

Banks were given to encourage children to save their money. Little girls received a small sewing machine and were taught to sew. They wanted tea sets so that they could have tea parties like their mothers. Dolls have long been one of the most requested toys by little girls.

Transportation-based toys have always been popular. Horses, cars, trucks and trains have always been popular with boys of all ages. Most of the trains in the exhibit were made by Lionel. Tin toys were also popular.

The museum is located at 100 E. Main St. in the old Belk building. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is $2 for adults, $1 for students and free for children under 5.