Beloved by many young children, Raggedy Ann has been around since the early 1900s. In 1915, a U.S. Patent was granted for Raggedy Ann dolls, followed by stories about her that were published in 1918. The instigator of this phenomenon was Johnny Gruelle, an artist and political cartoonist. One day, while up in the attic of his home with his daughter, he came across an old rag doll. He handed it to his daughter with a new face and "Raggedy Ann" written on it. Marcella, Gruelle's daughter, played with the doll constantly and it always brought a smile to her face. Gruelle felt as though other children might have the same reaction and applied for the patent. After it was granted, the popularity of the doll soared and became the stuff that legends are made of--literally. It was rumored that the original Raggedy Ann had a heart made of candy, making her sweet to the core. Because of that rumor, every Raggedy Ann doll has a heart on her chest that says "I Love You." Though the sweetness of Ann could not be ignored, there was still a brother to contend with. Gruelle created Raggedy Andy in the midst of Ann's popularity. He was still lovable, but had a mischievous and adventurous side to him. Together, they continued to enjoy the limelight. Today, the traditional dolls are still manufactured, as well as special holiday versions, a talking Raggedy Ann doll, and figurines. |
