Crayolas
Object NameCrayolas
Manufacturer
Binny & Smith
(American (New York / Paris), 1885 - 1984)
MediumWax, cardboard, paper
Dimensions2 3/4 × 3 3/4 in. (7 × 9.5 cm)
ClassificationsHousehold, Kitchen, Miscellaneous
Credit LineGift of Neva Petersen. In the Farm House Museum Collection, Farm House Museum, University Museums, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.
Object number83.14.3
Status
On viewCultureAmerican
Label TextCrayola, one of the most iconic brands of art supplies in the United States, was founded in 1885 as the Binney & Smith Company in Easton, Pennsylvania. Originally, the company manufactured industrial pigments and colorants, but in 1903 it introduced its first crayons for children, combining safe, non-toxic materials with bright, affordable colors. The name “Crayola” was coined by Alice Binney, combining “craie,” the French word for chalk, with “ola,” suggesting “oil” or “a lot of color.”
Crayola crayons quickly became a staple of American childhood, known for their vivid hues, durability, and accessibility. Throughout the 20th century, the company expanded its product line to include markers, colored pencils, and specialty art sets, while introducing iconic innovations such as the 64-color box and the “Crayola color wheel.” Crayola’s enduring success stems from its ability to combine creativity, education, and safe, high-quality materials, making it a trusted brand in classrooms and homes worldwide and an enduring symbol of artistic expression for generations of children.
https://www.crayola.com/company/about-us https://americanhistory.si.edu/collections/object/nmah_1196565
Locations
- (not entered) Iowa State University, Farm House Museum
Object Name: Picture Frame / Calendar
Carraine's Link Frame
July 27, 1900
Object number: 76.18.2
Object Name: Fitted Dresser Case / Vanity Set
late 19th Century
Object number: UM2016.562a-n
