Doll owned by Clementine Roundtree Cottee and Josephine English Church, ca. 1920

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Doll owned by Clementine Roundtree Cottee and Josephine English Church, ca. 1920

Doll representing a white baby, owned by African-American children. Dolls representing black children were manufactured at this period, but were often mammy doll stereotypes. It is wearing a white cotton dress, two knit socks, a cotton undergarment and a knit cap. The dress is fastened with a safety pin and the cap ties with a green ribbon. The doll has blue glass eyes, rosy lips and cheeks, and short brown hair coming out from underneath the bonnet

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Media ID 22177402

© Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Black History Child Development Cultural Heritage Doll Heritage Nmaahc Representation Representative Segregation Toys Afro American Infancy Role Model

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> Africa > Related Images

> North America > United States of America > Related Images

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a doll that holds significant historical and cultural value. Owned by African-American children, Clementine Roundtree Cottee and Josephine English Church, around the 1920s, this doll represents a white baby. During this period, dolls representing black children often perpetuated harmful mammy stereotypes. However, this particular doll breaks away from such conventions. Dressed in a pristine white cotton dress secured with a safety pin and adorned with two knit socks, the doll exudes innocence and charm. Its cotton undergarment ensures comfort while its green ribbon-tied knit cap adds an adorable touch. The doll's blue glass eyes sparkle with life as rosy lips and cheeks bring warmth to its expression. Short brown hair peeks out from underneath the bonnet. Beyond being just a toy, this object symbolizes resilience and representation for African-American children during an era of segregation in America. It serves as a reminder of their desire for inclusivity within mainstream culture despite limited options available at the time. Preserved within the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC), this heritage art piece offers insight into child development, cultural heritage, and societal norms prevalent in early 20th-century United States. While the identity of its creator remains unknown today, it stands as an important testament to how toys can shape perceptions and serve as role models for generations to come.

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