COLLECTION #38: Raggedy Ann & Andy

Who doesn't love Raggedy Ann & Andy? Their sweet faces and charming clothing & personalities have amused and entertained children and adults for nearly 100 years.  Created by author and artist Johnny Gruelle for his young daughter Marcella (who tragically died at the age of 13 as a result of a smallpox vaccination), Mr. Gruelle originally painted the face on a handmade rag doll, and a legend was born.  He applied for a patent for the doll in 1915, and in 1918 wrote the first book, Raggedy Ann Stories.

I don't have any really old Raggedy Ann or Andy dolls. Mine date from the Knickerbocker years 1963-82, with a few later Applause dolls thrown in. I do love the cute little Raggedy Ann marionette which is on the right side of my doll grouping.

I have six books, including two editions of Raggedy Andy stories,  one with the dust jacket. These were originally copyright 1920, but I have no idea if either of them is valuable. They aren't in mint condition, but are precious to me!  The illustrations are so charming!

The Marcella: A Raggedy Ann Story was dedicated to the memory of his beloved daughter Marcella.

 

This cute little Raggedy Ann & Andy toy is a reproduction Fisher-Price toy released for Toy Fest in 1997.  The original F-P toy was produced in 1941. It's my very favorite part of my Raggedy Ann collection!