I have been collecting model cars for a long time but only recently have I found any models actually “Made in USA”. I have a lot of Hot Wheels; Mattel is an American company but the models I have are made in Hong Kong, China, Thailand or Malaysia.

It was a surprise to find a TootsieToy “El Camino” at Drybridge Market. I think the model comes from the early sixties (correction around 1970, thanks Bill Pulliam). It is heavily playworn; the roof and sides have lost most of the original paint. It also doesn’t look like any “El Camino” I’m familiar with.

The second model appeared about a month later in a secondhand toy store, here in Tbilisi. An ERTL model of the “General Lee” Dodge Charger from The Dukes of Hazzard TV series of the eighties.

I am not sure about the controversial Confederate flag on the roof, but I guess I have Luftwaffe Models with Swastikas and it is faithful to the TV series.

El Camino base General Lee base

Interesting additions to my collection, I am far more familiar with models “Made in England” like the Matchbox cars of my childhood.