CPSC Recall in 1990: Oriental Trading Company, Inc. Recalls Two Wooden Trains Because Of Choking Hazard

Updated on March 25, 2026.

See the recall details below. You can also see similar information for other consumer product recalls in 1990.

Data Source: CPSC.

Recall Number: 90-076

Date: April 17, 1990

Product Name: Alphabetic Spelling Train (item #WP 257 27/58) and Goods Train (item #27/46)

Recall Description:

WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Oriental Trading Company, Inc. of Omaha, Nebraska is voluntarily recalling two models of wooden trains because of small parts which could detach and become a choking hazard to young children. When the CPSC tested the wooden trains in accordance with regulations under the Federal Hazardous Substances Act, wooden pegs, wheel axles, smoke stacks and the alphabet man's head came off or separated. Neither the CPSC nor the company is aware of any injuries involving this product. This voluntary recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury. The trains were sold by mail order catalog and by retailers from December 1988 to the present. The trains are described as follows: TRAIN ALPHABETIC SPELLING (ITEM #WP 257 27/58) consists of an engine with a pull cord and three cars. Each car has a flatbed with letters of the alphabet painted on rectangular wooden men and are attached by wooden pegs. Approximately 2,200 units were distributed nationwide for $3.95 each. GOODS TRAIN (ITEM #27/46) consists of a multi-colored engine and three multi-colored cars with red wooden wheels. Each car carries various wooden items, including a hopper car and a tank car. A pull cord is attached with a wooden bead on the end. Approximately 3,500 units were distributed nationwide for $5.40 each. Consumers are urged to take these toys away from young children immediately. Consumers owning either the Goods Train or the Alphabetic Spelling Train should return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers who purchased either wooden train from Oriental by direct mail catalog may return them to the company at 4206 South 108th Street, Omaha, NE 68137 for a refund plus postage. Consumers with questions about this recall may call the company at 1-800-327-9678.

Hazard Description:

These wooden trains are being recalled because of small parts which could detach and become a choking hazard to young children.

Consumer Action:

Remedy Type:

Refund

Units:

Incidents:

Neither the CPSC nor the company is aware of any injuries involving this product.

Sold At:

The trains were sold by Oriental Trading Company through mail order catalog and by retailers from December 1988 to the present. 

Manufactured In: