Walter Frederick Morrison, American businessman, invented the Frisbee (b. 1920)

Walter Frederick Morrison (January 23, 1920 – February 9, 2010) was a visionary American inventor and astute entrepreneur, best known globally as the creative mind behind the iconic flying disc we all recognize today as the Frisbee. His ingenuity transformed a simple pastime into a worldwide phenomenon, fundamentally changing recreational play and inspiring various competitive sports.

Morrison's journey toward inventing the Frisbee began long before its commercial success. The initial spark for his revolutionary idea emerged in 1937 when he and his future wife, Lu, were casually tossing a popcorn can lid, and later a pie tin, after a Thanksgiving dinner. This seemingly mundane activity sparked an inventive curiosity in Morrison, who recognized the potential for a more aerodynamic and enjoyable flying object.

After serving as a fighter pilot in World War II, a period that likely enhanced his understanding of aerodynamics, Morrison dedicated himself to refining his concept. He collaborated with Warren Franscioni to develop an early plastic prototype named the "Flyin' Saucer," which was first produced in 1948. While this initial venture faced commercial challenges, it laid the crucial groundwork for future innovations.

Undeterred, Morrison continued to refine his design independently. By 1955, he had developed a significantly improved version, crafted from a more durable and aerodynamic plastic, which he proudly called the "Pluto Platter." This name was a nod to the widespread fascination with UFOs and space-age themes prevalent during the Cold War era. The "Pluto Platter" featured a design that allowed for greater stability and flight performance, making it much more appealing for recreational use.

In a pivotal moment for the toy's future, Morrison sold the rights to his "Pluto Platter" to the Wham-O Manufacturing Company in 1957. Wham-O, an emerging toy company known for its innovative products like the Hula Hoop, quickly recognized the immense potential of Morrison's flying disc. In 1958, Wham-O rebranded the "Pluto Platter" as the "Frisbee." This new name was inspired by the "Frisbie Pie Company" of Bridgeport, Connecticut, whose empty pie tins had long been thrown by college students, particularly at Yale and other New England universities, creating an informal, pre-existing cultural association with flying discs.

The introduction of the Frisbee by Wham-O marked the beginning of its meteoric rise to global fame. Its simple yet captivating design made it accessible to people of all ages and skill levels, transforming backyard games, beach outings, and park activities. The Frisbee quickly became more than just a toy; it evolved into a cultural icon, symbolizing freedom, outdoor activity, and endless fun. Millions of Frisbees have been sold worldwide, solidifying its place in the pantheon of classic toys.

Beyond casual recreation, the Frisbee also became the cornerstone for various organized sports. The most prominent among these is Ultimate Frisbee, a team sport blending elements of football and basketball, which gained significant popularity on college campuses and eventually evolved into an international professional sport. Other disc sports include Freestyle Frisbee, Disc Golf, and Guts, each showcasing the versatility and dynamic potential of Morrison's invention.

Walter Frederick Morrison's legacy extends far beyond the plastic disc itself. He is celebrated for his inventive spirit and entrepreneurial drive, which led to the creation of a product that has brought joy and fostered physical activity for generations. His contribution to recreational culture remains profound and enduring.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Frisbee's Inventor

Who invented the Frisbee?

The Frisbee was invented by Walter Frederick Morrison, an American inventor and entrepreneur. He developed the initial concept and refined the design that later became the commercially successful flying disc.

When was the Frisbee invented?

While Walter Frederick Morrison first conceived the idea in 1937, he developed the "Pluto Platter" – the direct precursor to the Frisbee – in 1955. The Wham-O Manufacturing Company acquired the rights and rebranded it as the "Frisbee" in 1958.

What was the original name of the Frisbee?

Before being named the Frisbee by Wham-O, Walter Frederick Morrison's refined flying disc was known as the "Pluto Platter." Prior to that, an earlier plastic prototype with a partner was called the "Flyin' Saucer."

How did the Frisbee get its name?

The name "Frisbee" was chosen by the Wham-O Manufacturing Company, inspired by the "Frisbie Pie Company" of Bridgeport, Connecticut. College students in the New England area had a long-standing tradition of throwing empty Frisbie pie tins for recreation, creating a natural association with flying discs.

What impact did the Frisbee have?

The Frisbee has had a significant cultural impact, becoming a global icon for outdoor play, recreation, and physical activity. It also led to the creation of various popular sports, most notably Ultimate Frisbee, Disc Golf, and Freestyle Frisbee, which are played by millions worldwide.