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Object Details

Collection Citation: The Carolyn and Donald Grepke Paper Doll Collection, 1800s-1998, undated, Archives Center, National Museum of American History.

Collection Rights: Collection items available for reproduction, but the Archives Center makes no guarantees concerning copyright restrictions. Other intellectual property rights may apply. Archives Center cost-recovery and use fees may apply when requesting reproductions.

Scope and Contents: Consists of some of the earliest examples from the late 19th century of paper dolls used to sell products and services. Businesses used the reverse side of the doll to print pertinent information relating to the product or service, location of the company, and brand messages. Clothing companies first used dolls in women's magazines and then later in clothing catalogues to promote ready to wear apparel and sewing patterns. Businesses involved in the food and beverage, personal care products, patent medicine, household goods, and sporting goods industries also used paper dolls to sell products and to create brand loyalty by offering different sets with purchases. Some of the earliest major American companies to use paper dolls as advertisements include Atlantic and Pacific Tea Company (A&P), Behr-Manning Company, Campbell's Soup Company, Coco-Cola Company, General Electric Company, and Quaker Oats Company. In addition, there is information about antique advertisements. Materials are arranged in alphabetical order by the name of the company.