Cheryl Ginnings

By Tracy Quick

Smurfs are making a comeback, in no small part, because of the internet. Many, who loved and treasured their Smurfs from childhood, have found that not only are their vintage toys worth money but that they are being manufactured still by Germany's foremost toy maker, Schleich. Millions of children and adults around the world continue to indulge their love of all things Smurfy through Schleich's impressive line of not only individual Smurfs but also Smurf cottages, houses and accessories.

The Smurfs were first introduced in 1958 by Belgian cartoonist Peyo, for the Belgian magazine Spirou, as minor characters in the popular and long-running Johan et Pirlouit (Johan and Peewit) in the story "The Flute with Six Holes" in which they gained popularity. An enthusiastic following developed and, consequently, the Smurfs were accorded a strip of their own in 1958. They were originally known in French as the "Schtroumpfs" which translates as "salt". Their name was later translated into German as "Schl�mpfe" and into Dutch as "Smurf".

In 1965, British Petroleum (BP) contracted with the German toy-maker Schleich to produce Smurfs as a promotional gift. They proved to be so wildly popular that Schleich bought the rights to produce their own line. Eventually, Schleich went on to produce millions of the little blue figures and the rest is history.

To better pay homage to their long and ground-breaking journey with the Smurfs, Schleich is commemorating their 50 years of Smurfy relations by re-issuing 25 of their best-selling designs. These 5 new sets include 5 different Smurfs each.

The 1960 - 1969 set includes the classic Papa, Standard, Conspiracy, Drummer, and Glum Smurfs.

The 1970 - 1979 set has a career theme with Painter, Postman, Doctor, Ballerina and Chef Smurfs.

The 1980's farm theme includes Farmer, Cornucopia, Gardener, Apple, and Miller Smurfs.

The 1990's sporting theme features an Aerobics Smurfette, and Climber, Swimmer, Sprinter, Golfer Smurfs.

Last but not least, the 2000 - 2009 set is all about soccer with a Goal Keeper, Benchwarmer, Referee, Manager Smurfs, and a Fan Smurfette.

Schleich has also designed a 6-piece set for "The Smurfs in 3-D" movie slated for release in the summer of 2011.

In addition to these sets, Schleich released an astrology Smurf series last year. These are your familiar friends who appear dressed in a costume reflecting each sign's attributes. For example, the Pisces Smurf is wearing a fish suit and hat or a Libra Smurf which is the classic Papa Smurf holding a scale in each hand.

Many people young and old still appreciate and adore these little guys. There are many "Smurf" communities and collectors forums now online. Being blue and at only "3 apples high" they are sure to always be collectors items.

A large selection of Schleich toy figurines, Smurfs, and accessories can be found at many online stores including Schleich Toy Store.

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