Happy 110th Birthday, Raggedy Ann!

September 7, 1915 is the date for Raggedy Ann's date of origin, or her patent for registration by Johnny Gruelle, thus, her 'birthday'. I have a small , very small collection of Raggedy Ann and Andy memoribilia. More than likely, as with all doll collectors- I probably have more! but this is what I could put my hands on for photos. I have been picking up odds and ends lately when I come across the dolls here and there. My mother loved Raggedy Ann and Andy and the Kelly dolls are hers, in the box. I have never had the heart to de-box them as I have one that was hers that she purchased at a sale somewhere (just the Kelly Raggedy Ann-) that I keep on my desk at my office where I work. 

Here is more on WIKI- Raggedy Ann that explains alot more. 

Here is also a video on Rare Raggedy Ann dolls with Rachel Hoffman 

and (deceased)Jonathan Green on YouTube- I encourage you to explore her channel for more

Rachel Hoffman Rare Raggedy Ann Dolls

Large doll Raggedy Ann & Andy history

 

Raggedy Ann and Andy Collection items

This is a post that has been in the making for a while, as I am interested in all kinds of dolls. I have recently become enthralled with the charm of Raggedy Ann & Andy dolls and their stories. I have acquired two vintage books and I have had the Mattel Tommy & Kelly storybook Raggedy Ann  & Andy doll set, as well as the Applause 12 inch doll that both belonged to my mother, seen below. 

I got even more interested after watching some of Rachel Hoffmans' Videos on her Youtube channel. Large Raggedy Ann and Andy Doll History with Jonathan Green VIDEO

and My Childhood Raggedy Ann Dolls | A Happy and Positive Program with Jonathan Green |VDC video

These videos and Rachels channel have helped me look at these charming dolls in a different way and understand why my mother loved them, for their silliness and charm. 

The stories of Johnny Gruelle are whimsical and fun, and take me back to when as a child a box became a house, a tree became a fort, and so on. Marcella is like any little girl who sees her toys as friends. I hope you will embark on embracing Raggedy Ann and Andy in a small way and read their stories.