Oakbrook Terrace Historical Society remembers Dispensa's Kiddie Kingdom, Castle of Toys

A two-week exhibit celebrating the history of Dispensa's Kiddie Kingdom and Castle of Toys will open Saturday, Nov. 2, and continue through Nov. 16 at the Oakbrook Terrace Historical Society's Sears Homart Home at 17W245 16th St.

The exhibit will be open from 3 to 7 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and 1 to 3 p.m. Saturdays.

At one time, Dispensa's Castle of Toys was the largest independent, free-standing toy store in the world.

Located along Route 83 near Roosevelt Road in Oakbrook Terrace, the amusement park known as Kiddie Kingdom advertised rides for a quarter or six for a dollar.

The display will include two original toy soldiers that once stood in front of the castle, along with posters and a display case that recently were part of the "Worlds of Wonder" exhibit at the Elmhurst History Museum.

John Dispensa III, great grandson of the founder, will talk about the amusement park and his family's history during a presentation at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 11, in the Oakbrook Terrace City Council chambers, 17W275 Butterfield Road.

Dispensa and Sons started in 1919 when John's great-grandfather purchased a Ferris wheel, which grew into a carnival. The family eventually added a toy store and a permanent amusement park to the land they had owned in Oakbrook Terrace. The business completely shut down in 1985; this would have been its 100th anniversary. There will be a cake to celebrate 100 years at the presentation.

Admission is free, but donations will be accepted.

For details, email obthistory@comcast.net or call (630) 834-8661. Visit obthistory.com.