China head dolls

Many people refer to all porcelain and bisque dolls as "china dolls". China head dolls are a separate category. They have molded hair instead of a wig or rooted hair, and usually have a cloth body with porcelain or bisque forearms and feet. They may also have kid leather hands. Many china heads have exaggeratedly large calves, painted blue garters, and brown or black painted boots. China heads are usually referred to by their hairstyles: low brow and high brow. The doll head in the first picture is an example of a low brow. Companies, mainly in Germany, began producing china heads in 1840. Reproductions are still made, such as the two blonde dolls in the second picture which are from the mid to late 20th century. The Spencer Doll and Toy Museum has an exhibit of gorgeous antique china heads with various types of bodies. Come in and see these beautiful and fascinating dolls for yourself. They will be on exhibit until September.

A Trip Down Memory Lane - Miniature Toy Soldiers

Do you remember playing with miniature soldiers and other miniature toys as a child? The Spencer Doll and Toy Museum has two cases of miniatures and other "baby boomer" toys on loan from the South Carolina Military Miniature Society. Visitors have described these exhibits as "a trip down memory lane." Come in and see them and our many other featured exhibits!

Celebrating 100 Years of Scouting

2012 marks the 100th anniversary of the Girl Scouts! We have a fantastic exhibit of vintage and modern Girl Scout dolls and memorabilia. Some of the items are on loan from the Charlotte Hornet's Nest Girl Scout Council, so the exhibit won't be here long. Stop by and see it before it moves on to its next destination.

Happy Fourth of July from the Spencer Doll and Toy Museum!

Come in and visit us! We're open all week.