History of the Yo-Yo Valerie Oliver Museum of Yo-Yo History

Actually, with the assistance of a large crane and a skilled operator, Big-Yo can successfully make its way up and down the string. Worst case you can use the waybackmachine site for viewing point in time snapshots of the site. I was going to send you the money but you told me to wait until you made it. I’ve attempted to buy other models from you in the past but my timing was poor. The museum is still added to regularly, @rickbr is the main guy keeping the exhibits coming.

Museum of Yo-Yo History

Reach out to us anytime with your questions and thoughts at email protected. We’re thrilled to be part of your yo-yo journey and can’t wait to hear from you. Our centerpiece is Big-Yo, the scaled up working version of the iconic No-Jive 3-in-1 from Tom Kuhn. At 256 pounds, Big-Yo made it into the 1982 Guinness Book of World Records claiming the title of ‘Worlds Biggest Working Wooden Yo-Yo’.

Some even speculate about its use by 16th-century Filipino hunters, who supposedly used a weapon that closely resembles a yo-yo. Tied to long cords, they would hurl stones at wild game and reel the stones back up for another attempt. While this narrative paints an intriguing picture, it’s likely more fiction than fact. However, the yo-yo certainly made its way from China to the Philippines, where it became a beloved children’s toy. Hey friends, didn’t see anything recent on this so just thought I’d mention it! I’ve been poking through it this morning at work and I’ve already learned quite a bit.

But that year also marked another significant breakthrough in the world of yoyos. Alphonso Flores Mirafuentes, a little-known yet ingenious inventor, recognized the practicality of being able to take a yoyo apart. A simple bolt and nut system — a concept so effective that it remains the core of how most yoyo manufacturers, even today, construct their toys. This seemingly minor change allowed for easy maintenance and repair, revolutionizing the toy’s design. The Playmaxx company later built on this idea, adding a “Lock Nut” to ensure the yoyo stayed securely together during the most aggressive tricks. In the world of innovation, even the simplest of tools can undergo significant transformation.

National Yo-Yo Museum

The results were fascinating, as the yo-yo couldn’t “sleep” due to the lack of gravity’s downward force. Then, in 1992, the yo-yo made a second journey into space aboard the Space Shuttle Atlantis, this time featured in an educational video. As of today, the museum has 4,021 exhibits (some still waiting approval).

While many believe it likely first appeared in ancient China, the earliest recorded reference comes from Greece around 500 B.C. There, these early yo-yos were not just playthings; they held cultural significance. Made from wood, metal, or the delicate, painted clay known as terra cotta, these “disks” (as they were called) were often offered to the gods when a child reached adulthood. Due to their fragility, it’s assumed that the terra cotta versions were ceremonial, rather than toys for active play. A striking vase from this era depicts a young Museum of Yo-Yo History Greek boy playing with a yo-yo—a testament to how long the simple joy of this toy has persisted.

Thanks to Grahame’s programming prowess, Dave’s dream has finally come full circle. The permanent online Yo-Yo Museum is no longer just an idea but a living, growing reality. If you’re seeking information about a vintage collectible or wondering where to find buyers, we’re here to help.