Game:The Brownies Ladder

In the February 1883 issue of "St. Nicholas Magazine," a periodical for children, artist and writer Palmer Cox introduced the Brownies, a group of whimsical sprites-all male-based on Scottish folklore. Though the Brownies had a mischievous side, they also delighted in helpful deeds and had a strong sense of morality. The lovable characters became an instant hit, resonating with children and adults alike. A series of books followed the beloved comic strip, and the Brownies became a popular culture and marketing phenomenon. In response to the Brownies' wild popularity, everything from blocks and puzzles to utensils and candlestick holders soon bore images of the sprites. Companies used the Brownies as a marketing tool as well, putting the familiar characters on product packaging. The National Biscuit Company (later known as Nabisco) introduced a Brownie-branded treat, Log Cabin Brownies Biscuits, and George Eastman named his famous Brownie camera after the characters. Though the Brownies' popularity has since waned, the revolution of brand marketing that they prompted lives on.