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Media contacts: Kim Schuette: 614.297.2314 or kschuette@ohiohistory.org
For Immediate Release
African American Dolls – The Stories They Tell Extended By Popular Demand
Exhibition Will Run Through October at the National Afro-American Museum
(WILBERFORCE, OHIO) - African American Dolls - The Stories They Tell has been held over by popular demand at the National Afro-American Museum and Cultural Center in Wilberforce, Ohio, through Oct. 31, providing an additional opportunity to explore the captivating history of Black dolls in the United States.
The exhibition showcases more than 500 dolls-about a third of the National Afro-American Museum and Cultural Center's collection, which is one of the largest in the country, according to Edna Diggs, Ohio Historical Society curator. The dolls that are featured represent more than 200 years of Black culture.
"We are delighted to extend African American Dolls - The Stories They Tell," said Edna Diggs, Ohio Historical Society curator. "People who see the exhibition are fascinated by African American dolls and the history they represent. Dolls are a representation of a people. They depict how we see ourselves and how others see us."
For African Americans, early handmade dolls made by slaves for their children as well as those that were mass-produced represent Black people throughout history and the influence they had on Black society. From mammies and cotton pickers to celebrated entertainers and sports figures, Black dolls have evolved in a more positive sense than those of yesteryear, which were often stereotypical representations of Black people.
"Modern Black dolls offer Black children the opportunity to see themselves in a positive light," said Diggs. "They promote self-esteem, self-pride and self-acceptance, all important precepts for proper childhood development."
A part of the Ohio Historical Society, the National Afro-American Museum and Cultural Center is located at 1350 Brush Row Road in Wilberforce, Ohio, adjacent to Central State University. Museum hours are Wednesdays through Saturdays, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Admission is $4 for adults and $1.50 for youth (ages 6-12) and students with ID. Call 800.752.2603 for more information.
Established in 1885, the Ohio Historical Society is a nonprofit organization that serves as the state’s partner in preserving and interpreting Ohio’s history, archaeology, natural history and architecture. For more information about programs and events, call 614.297.2300/800.686.6124 or go online at www.ohiohistory.org.
Photo Cutline: African American Dolls - The Stories They Tell is on display at the National Afro-American Museum and Cultural Center in Wilberforce, Ohio, through Oct. 31.
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