Tonka's history is not defined by a single "artist," but rather by its founders and designers who created iconic, durable metal toys. The company began in 1946 as Mound Metalcraft in Minnesota, founded by Lynn Everett Baker, Avery F. Crounse, and Alvin F. Tesch, and was initially a gardening tool company. They pivoted to toys after acquiring a steam shovel and crane, and became known for their realistic, heavy-duty steel construction vehicles. Key figures like Charlie Groschen and designer Pauly were instrumental in developing and refining the early designs, which culminated in successful products like the Mighty Dump Truck.