1989 Vintage Raggedy Ann Doll

Made in 1989 by Glenda Frank Vintage Handmade Raggedy Ann Doll In excellent condition Has a beautiful, handmade dress and a handmade apron with lace detailing over top —— History on Raggedy Ann —— Raggedy Ann, one of America’s most beloved dolls, was created in 1915 by writer and cartoonist Johnny Gruelle. The story of Raggedy Ann begins with a family tragedy: Gruelle’s daughter, Marcella, found an old rag doll in her grandmother’s attic. After Marcella’s death from an infection following a vaccination in 1915, Gruelle created the character of Raggedy Ann in her memory. He developed stories around the doll, giving it a kind, playful, and adventurous personality. Gruelle patented the Raggedy Ann doll in 1915, and in 1918, he published Raggedy Ann Stories, a book series about her adventures. Soon after, Raggedy Ann’s brother, Raggedy Andy, was introduced. The books, illustrated with bright colors and simple, joyful art, captured the imaginations of children and parents, with their themes of kindness, resilience, and simple virtues. Over the years, Raggedy Ann became a cultural icon, symbolizing innocence and nostalgia. The dolls were handmade for decades, but in time, they were mass-produced, and Raggedy Ann became a staple in American households.