While dolls have been popular children’s toys for centuries, books featuring dolls as characters emerged in the 1800s and became popular throughout the 1900s as manufacturing of both became more widespread. Take a look at the dolls from JCKL’s own Gilbert-Sadler Research Collection on display in the North Hallway!
Paper Dolls:
Paper dolls became popular in the mid 19th century as printing became cheaper. Dolls and accessories were printed on books, magazines, and cards such as these reprinted Majorette paper dolls from 1957.
Rag Dolls:
As the name suggests, rag dolls were homemade from scrap fabric, corn husks, or other leftover household materials for children to play with, and could be used to teach children how to sew. One of the most significant rag dolls in U.S. popular culture, Raggedy Ann, was created in 1915 by American artist Johnny Gruelle and inspired several books about the character.
Fashion Dolls:
Fashion dolls reflect cultural fashion trends and often feature dolls with teenage or adult figures. Fashion dolls originated around the 14th century and were mainly found within the upper classes. Now, fashion dolls are considered to be toys for children, as well as collectibles. Special Collections hosts several of the world’s most popular fashion doll, Barbie, including the Barbie Wizard of Oz collection.
To read more, check out the display in the North hallway through August. To view these items in our collection, please contact Special Collections using this form.
Post contributed by Liz Riggs.
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