The Frisbee Toy Is First Sold

On January 23, 1957, the toy company Wham-O rolled out its first batch of aerodynamic plastic flying discs in California. The toy was originally christened the Pluto Platter, riding the era’s craze for flying saucers right down to the UFO-styled cupola on top.

The design came from inventor Walter Frederick Morrison, who had spent years perfecting a disc that flew farther and straighter than the tin pie plates and cake pans people once tossed on beaches. Wham-O acquired the rights in exchange for royalties, then began manufacturing in earnest.

A toy meant for a quick toss became a worldwide sport played by millions.

The name Frisbee arrived later in 1957, after Wham-O learned that Northeastern college students were already calling the discs by that word, a nod to the Frisbie Pie Company whose tins they had long flung. Renamed officially in 1958, the disc went on to spawn entire sports and earn a permanent place in popular culture.