ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Rockford has a well-documented history of making fasteners and screws, earning it the nickname, Screw City.

During the city’s manufacturing heyday, which quieted in the 1980s, Rockford factories also made numerous products that were well known around the world.

Here’s a list of 10 famous things that have bore the “Made in Rockford, Illinois” label over the years.

1. The Sock Monkey: Originating from the Nelson Knitting Company in the 1930s, this beloved toy was crafted from Rockford Red Heel socks. Its whimsical design became a nostalgic symbol, delighting generations with its handmade charm. While most monkeys are mass produced a dedicated team still manufactures them by hand right here in Rockford.

The sock monkey was created by the Nelson Knitting Co. (FILE)

2. Chibi minibikes by Rockford Motors (1970s): For years, Rockford Motors imported minibikes made by Bridgestone. After Bridgestone stopped making motorcyles in 1971, Rockford Motors acquired manufacturing rights and partnered with a factory in Taiwan to create its own line of minibikes, among them the 60cc Chibi. The three-speed Chibis were quick and rugged, offering a fun and accessible way to hit the trails. Although they were not manufactured in Rockford, Chibis are still popular among enthusiasts and are part of the city’s rich history.

A Chibi as pictured in a Rockford Motors catalog from the 1970s. (FILE)

3. Furniture by Rockford Standard Furniture: Once a powerhouse in the U.S. furniture industry, Rockford Standard Furniture played a major role the city’s manufacturing boom. Its sturdy, stylish furniture pieces made Rockford a leading furniture hub in the early 20th century. The company’s factory is now occupied by Benson Stone Co., 1100 11th St., Rockford.

Items displayed in a Rockford Standard Furniture catalog from 1929. (FILE PHOTO)

4. Testors paints: Founded in Rockford, Testors has been a go-to for model enthusiasts since 1929. The company made their famous paints on Buckbee Street until the 2010s. Testors still produces high-quality paints and hobby kits.

Testors made paint in Rockford from 1929 until the 2010s. The company is now part of the Rust-Oleum Group. (FILE)

5. Hammers, axes, and striking tools by Estwing: Estwing’s durable, one-piece forged tools, including the hammer famously used by NASA on the moon in 1972, is part of Rockford’s proud manufacturing legacy. Estwing tools remain a staple for professionals worldwide.

Estwing has making hammers and other striking tools in Rockford since 1923. (JIM HAGERTY/WTVO)

6. Toys by Nylint Toys: Nylint Toys crafted pressed steel and plastic trucks, transitioning from kitchen utensils to the iconic playthings. Their detailed designs entertained children from 1945 until the company closed in the early 2000s. Nylint was relaunched in 2020 by Emmy Klint, granddaughter of the founders.

A Nylint Toys Chevy Blazer. (FILE)

7. Mrs. Fisher’s Chips: This regional potato chip maker, founded in Rockford, has become a local favorite with its crispy, flavorful snacks. Its community-rooted brand still evokes pride among residents.

A bag of Mrs. Fisher’s potato chips. (FILE)

8. Toys by Midgetoy: Produced by the A & E Tool and Gage Company from the late 1940s to 1982, Midgetoy’s miniature metal cars and military vehicles were a hit, reflecting Rockford’s toy-making creativity.

The first toys with Midgetoy stamping were made in 1946 in Rockford by the A&E Tool and Gage Co. The company manufactured the popular die cast toys until 1981. (FILE)

9. Bathroom scales by the Brearley Company: Known for precision, the Brearley Company manufactured reliable bathroom scales in Rockford, serving households across the country with quality weight-measurement products from the 1930s to 1980. Brearley’s most popular bathroom scale was the Counselor, which are considerably sought after by collectors.

Bathroom scales, much like this one, were manufactured on South Kishwaukee Street from the by the Brearely Company. (FILE)

10. Electronic dartboards by Arachnid 360 (Loves Park): Based in Loves Park, Arachnid 360 revolutionized darts in 1975 with its electronic dartboards. Still operating today, Arachnid 360 has a global following.

Arachnid 360 has been manufacturing electronic dartboards in Loves Park since 1975. (FILE)

Additions

Chewing gum: Dentyne, Chiclets, Clorets, Trident and Bubblicious, to name a few, have been manufactured at the gum factory at 5500 Forest Hills Road in Loves Park for nearly 70 years. Formerly operated by Warner-Lambert, the facility is now owned by Perfetti Van Melle, the maker of Mentos.

Greenlee tools: Although the company is now a subsidiary of Emerson Electric Co., Greenlee has been headquartered in Rockford since 1862. With a global presence, Greenlee is a maker of tools like cable pullers, wire fishers, knockout sets, electric conduit benders, hydraulic tools and bolt cutters.