When Roger Garfield announced the sad news that the Chicago Toy Soldier Show for 2023 was to be cancelled because of the intransigence of the Hyatt hotel, where it had been held for almost 40 years, it was a body blow for all those in the hobby. Collectors looked forward to this, the most important event in the Toy Soldier collecting hobby, which it appeared was to be no more. Many feared the worst, but then stepped forward Matt Murphy of Hobby Bunker, in the nick of time. With the support of Roger Garfield and his family, as well as many other people, Matt managed to organise the new Chicagoland event, which continues the long tradition which started back in 1980 when the five founding members of the Old Toy Soldier Newsletter OTSN partners – Steve and JoEllen Sommers, Joe Wallis, Don Pielin, and Roger Garfield – organised the first show.
Matt approached the Marriot Hotel in Schaumburg, whom had previously hosted similar events for the Military Miniature Society of Illinois, they were quick to step into the shoes vacated by the Hyatt and put on a great show at short notice. Speaking with many dealers and collectors it is clear that it has been a resounding success, with Matt already pencilling in the dates for next year. While a few people had obviously been put off by the uncertainties generated by the cancellation of the CTSS event, the new show was very well attended, many people attending from overseas, as well as from all parts of the USA.
The accompanying images provide a small taste of what those attending enjoyed, while in the Reconnaissance section we highlight just a few of the treasures to be found. Make sure you book early for next year!
