Women's Club to host 47th annual Antiques Show and Sale

The Bay Village Women's Club will feature antique and vintage dolls in the annual Antiques Show and Sale at Bay High School on Feb. 13 and 14. Photo by Darin Snyder

A display of dolls will highlight the 47th annual Antiques Show and Sale sponsored by the Bay Village Women's Club and Foundation on President's Weekend, Feb. 13 and 14, being held at Bay High School, 29230 Wolf Road.

Following the tradition of showcasing trains and quilts in the past, antique and vintage dolls will be featured in the 2016 show. Those created before 1930 are considered antique today. The dolls are classified according to their construction. Most pre-1930 dolls were bisque, papier mache, wood and wax. Also, composition dolls are becoming classified as antique.

Most dolls found today are not in their original clothing, making it difficult to date them. The majority of dolls were manufactured from 1850 on, though there were dolls representing adults found in the 17th and 18th centuries. Very early dolls were made in England and were carved out of wood by individual craftsmen. Dolls from the beginning of the 19th century through the early 20th century were mass produced in Germany, France and the United States. 

The first well-known American dollmaker was Ludwig Greiner of Philadelphia. His were made of papier mache. The wax doll was also being made during this period. These were made of stuffed cloth with wax arms and heads. Popular dolls of the 20th century in the United States were GI Joe, Cabbage Patch and the continuing favorite, Barbie doll. American Girl dolls representing the diversity of our population even have their own stores.

The show hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 13, and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 14. A donation of $5 supports college scholarships awarded to select graduating seniors as well as civic contributions. For information call 440-334-7539.