1911-1920

Raggedy Ann

Raggedy Ann has the distinction of being among the first (if not the first) commercially-produced rag dolls.

This character dates from 1915 - Johnny Gruelle, a writer, drew upon an old handmade rag-doll for his daughter who later died after receiving a smallpox vaccination, a fact which inspired her father to use the doll as a symbol for an anti-vaccination movement (which ultimately failed in its goal). The writer wrote and illustrated children's books using this character.

Since her sad beginnings, this doll's popularity has been consistent. She has been commercially manufactured and also adapted for handmade versions.

This design is now considered a public-domain property.