A.C. Gilbert’s Rocket Launcher Set, 1960 Dave Frieder

Dno you remember when the engineering bug bit you? Did curiosity sluice down the sunny-side of a skyscraper, or beckon you from across the span of a bridge? Wherever it began, many engineers and architects got their first shot at “building” courtesy A.C. Gilbert, the creator of the Gilbert Erector Set. “With his toys, Gilbert hoped to combine fun with an understanding and appreciation of science. Gilbert realized that a child needed playthings that would encourage creative expression and satisfy a natural curiosity about the world,” according to ACGilbert.org.

For a trip down memory lane, check out the Structural Engineering & Design Online Exclusive, “Blast from the past: Gilbert Erector Sets,” for photos and details on some classic sets, thanks to one of our favorite engineering connoisseurs, Dave Frieder. Visit www.gostructural.com for the story.

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