November 21, 2008, Royal Oak, Mich. – Who would have thought the Detroit-area was a hotbed for toy soldier and military miniature enthusiasts such that three local gentlemen have been instrumental in leading the dramatic turn around of the venerable and world famous 115-year-old British toy soldier company—W. Britain.
A team of three Detroit area collectors and artisans were brought on board 3 years ago to lead the rebirth of this iconic brand.
Richard Walker, formerly of Grosse Pointe Farms, was hired as General Manager to oversee all aspects of the business in the United States and United Kingdom.
Kenneth Osen, formerly of Livonia and most recently of Bruce, Michigan, came aboard as the chief designer and sculptor for W. Britain.
The man charged with bringing these miniature masterpieces to life was David Youngquist, a Royal Oak resident and gold medal master figure painter for the last twenty years.
Want to learn more about these guys and what they do? Meet the artists at the Michigan Toy Soldier Company, from 1:00 P.M.–4:00 P.M. on Saturday, November 22, at 1400 East Eleven Mile Road, Royal Oak, MI 48067, Tel: 248-586-1022. They will be giving demonstrations and will be available to sign any W. Britain sets purchased that day. A free plastic W.Britain will given to any child 12 years old or younger. W.Britain door prizes valued at over $200.00 will be also be given away.
We hope to see you there!
A team of three Detroit area collectors and artisans were brought on board 3 years ago to lead the rebirth of this iconic brand.
Richard Walker, formerly of Grosse Pointe Farms, was hired as General Manager to oversee all aspects of the business in the United States and United Kingdom.
Kenneth Osen, formerly of Livonia and most recently of Bruce, Michigan, came aboard as the chief designer and sculptor for W. Britain.
The man charged with bringing these miniature masterpieces to life was David Youngquist, a Royal Oak resident and gold medal master figure painter for the last twenty years.
Want to learn more about these guys and what they do? Meet the artists at the Michigan Toy Soldier Company, from 1:00 P.M.–4:00 P.M. on Saturday, November 22, at 1400 East Eleven Mile Road, Royal Oak, MI 48067, Tel: 248-586-1022. They will be giving demonstrations and will be available to sign any W. Britain sets purchased that day. A free plastic W.Britain will given to any child 12 years old or younger. W.Britain door prizes valued at over $200.00 will be also be given away.
We hope to see you there!