T. W. Strong, New York

Thomas W. Strong (1817-1892) was an active lithographer and wood engraver from about 1842. His printing experience began in the 1830's when he worked/apprenticed as a printer, engraver, lithographer for Robert H. Elton. In 1842 he established his own company at 153 Fulton Street where he remained for only a short time.

He was the publisher of "Yankee Notions", a very popular illustrated comic journal which was published between 1852 and 1875. Strong also published number of other periodicals including "Tiny Tales" a monthly magazine for children. He was also a major early valentine publisher and called his store the "Valentine Emporium". He was known as a publisher of grotesque comic valentines. The Strong firm was a great supporter of cartoonists.

In 1877 Strong sold out to P. J. Kennedy.

T. W. Strong addresses:
153/156 Fulton Street 1842-1843
96 Nassau Street 1844
98 Nassau Street 1850-1866
599 Broadway 1868-1872
Succeeded Edward Dunigan & Brother in 1870.

Several* series were previously published by G. W. Cottrell and Co. Apparently Strong helped Cottrell get started in the publishing business. Cottrell had a relationship with Strong when they were both in New York City. After Cottrell moved to Boston, he co-published several books with Strong in the 1848 era.

Many of the books which were later in the series below were published by T. W. Strong in the early and mid-1850's. They were not collated into series however until the early 1860's. Most all of the series below are designated as "Toy Series" and were published in wraps. Virtually none of the volumes are dated and all have the 98 Nassau Street address indicating an 1850-1866 publication.

The plates for a number of these series were offered for sale in 1869.