Mattel Vinyl Dolls
In 1945, Mattel was named for Harold MATTson and Ruth and ELliot Handler. Primarily making picture frames, Mattson used
the scraps to make doll furniture. Shortly after the company started, Mattson left for health reasons. Elliot Handler created new
toys and Ruth marketed them. 1955 saw the riskiest move in marketing for the young company that paid big dividends: Mattel
sponsored a 15 minute segment of the Mickey Mouse Club. Mattel continued to grow from this exposure. While Barbie is the
best known Mattel doll, Mattel produced many other dolls as well. A considerable number of those dolls were Barbie related
friends and family but several notable exceptions exist.
the scraps to make doll furniture. Shortly after the company started, Mattson left for health reasons. Elliot Handler created new
toys and Ruth marketed them. 1955 saw the riskiest move in marketing for the young company that paid big dividends: Mattel
sponsored a 15 minute segment of the Mickey Mouse Club. Mattel continued to grow from this exposure. While Barbie is the
best known Mattel doll, Mattel produced many other dolls as well. A considerable number of those dolls were Barbie related
friends and family but several notable exceptions exist.
The Art
The Music
The Literature
The Architecture
The Politics
The Traditions
The Child
American
Girl Dolls
Girl Dolls
Himstedt
Chatty Cathy
Note: for Barbie, see the fashion dolls of this time period.
