Rag Dolls:

Rag dolls are probably as old as rags. Some found in Egypt date to the 3rd century (200s) and possibly others were made before that early date.

Early rag dolls were made by hand in the home. They were especially popular on the American frontier where toys were not readily available.

After the invention of the sewing machine in 1845, rag dolls were commercially produced on a large scale. In 1886 a patent was granted for a cutout rag doll that could be stuffed and sewn together in the home. Often, manufacturers printed the face, hands, and feet on the material.

Commercially produced rag dolls traditionally have been products of Great Britain and the United States. They have never been as popular in continental Europe. A visit to almost any large toy department today provides ample evidence that rag dolls remain a favorite of American children.