[Vella Gonzaga]

Walking dolls​

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Credits: State Library of WA

Who used to play with walking dolls back in the day? These dolls were more than just toys; they were companions that brought joy to countless young hearts. With their distinctive hair colours and styles, they held a special place in the hearts of those fortunate enough to receive them as Christmas gifts in the 1950s. They joined Aussie kids in countless tea parties, became characters in bedtime stories, and embarked on numerous imaginative adventures. Do you have fond memories of playing with these dolls? Tell us in the comments below.

 

[Jennylolo]

I had one. She is packed away with the christening gown we all wore. Her hair was long, course and reddish brown, To walk these early dolls it meant they swayed from side to side. But they were special making them that little more real for little girls.

 

[Mars]

I never had a walking doll, but I got one for my eldest Daughter for her birthday in the sixties so they were around for a long time.

 

[Cheb]

I will soon turn 74, and I still have my walking doll. When I was given her, my Mother, told me not to undo her plaits but the girls next door to me did and her hair was never quite the same after that. I do remember that she originally had on a blue and white gingham dress and a straw boater hat. I named her Elizabeth. Years later my parents took her to a dolls' hospital, and she came home with a short curly wig. I never liked it so one day there was a man at Dandenong Plaza who repaired dolls. I took Elizabeth to him and had her hair replaced with a long blonde wig again. I also had her voice box replaced, ( A Ma-Ma box ) but that doesn't work any longer. One day we went to a church Fete, and I bought a bride doll and I have put the white dress on my doll. That doll also had white plastic shoes, but my Elizabeth has gorgeous little pink fluffy ballet shoes on. These belonged to my Granddaughter as a baby, and were made for her by her Mother's Great Aunt. You can't see in the photo, but they are embroidered with tiny flowers.
Elizabeth proudly sits on a small table in my bedroom.

 

[Cora6]

I remember my walking doll so well. Her name was Elsie and l received her for my 5th birthday. I was so proud of her. I named her after a down syndrome girl from next door. We loved to have afternoon tea together under a tent that mum erected with a sheet on the clothes line. Such great memories.