 |
With her introduction American Greetings led the world into
the phenomenon of character licensing. By
1977 Holly Hobbie was the most sought after female licensed
character in the world.
She was turned
into a very popular and recognisable rag doll in her own
right and adored by many. The
company 'Knickerbocker' merchandised the rag dolls in 1975.
(see below) The
greetings cards had mottos such as 'Start each day in a happy way'
and 'Life's greatest blessing is a happy heart'.
The Artist and creator, Holly Hobbie, herself now lives in Massachusetts.
The colours and the look are still as appealing today.
|
| Holly Hobbie
was named after the artist who created her and was
introduced on American Greetings cards in 1967, as a little girl
facing sideways, wearing white with tiny blue floral print, long
sleeved, feminine frock and patchwork apron. Her face was obscured
by a large, blue floral bonnet. She also wore brown boots, The
whole effect gave her a Laura Ashley / Americana nostalgic country
style appearance.
She is said to
have provided an antidote to the cultural and
economic tumult of the times after
the Vietnam War protests, civil rights riots and cultural
revolution of the 1960s.
|

Photo shows
9" and 4" dolls. Knickerbocker created a whole range of
dolls including
Amy Hobbie dressed in green. There was also Heather (pink or beige), Carrie (red) Robbie
(in blue striped dungarees) and Grandma.
|