Caroline Kennedy Doll
Artifact IDMO 2024.3.1a-c
Object Type
Doll
Date
1962
Maker
Madame Alexander Doll Company, Inc.
(American, Founded 1923)
Medium
Vinyl, plastic, ink, synthetic fibers, fabric
DimensionsOverall H 10 in (25.4 cm )
Physical DescriptionPlastic Caroline Kennedy doll made by Madame Alexander. Light skinned doll with blue eyes and blonde hair. Doll is wearing a fleece aqua blue one piece long sleeve jumper with a zipper front closure and a matching hat.
Historical Note“Some new ‘Kennedys’ have arrived in Washington” read a Washington Post article introducing readers to the 1962 holiday season creations by famed doll-maker Beatrice “Madame” Alexander--the Caroline and Jacqueline dolls. Although the Madame Alexander Doll Company claimed the dolls were not modeled on the Kennedys, JFK press secretary Pierre Salinger protested that "there can be no doubt that they are facsimiles of Mrs. Kennedy and Caroline." After sales proved mediocre, Madame Alexander quipped, “Maybe...there are more Republicans than has been figured."
Seven-year-old Robin Rowe was given this Caroline doll along with six outfits: a snowsuit, a sailor suit, two party dresses, a dress coat, and a pajama robe. "She was well loved", Ms. Rowe recalled. "Unfortunately, her shoes, socks and underwear did not survive the 60 years as well."
Additional DetailsSeven-year-old Robin Rowe was given this Caroline doll along with six outfits: a snowsuit, a sailor suit, two party dresses, a dress coat, and a pajama robe. "She was well loved", Ms. Rowe recalled. "Unfortunately, her shoes, socks and underwear did not survive the 60 years as well."
Custodial History NoteItem was donated to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library by a private citizen in 2024.
Credit LineJohn F. Kenndy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA; Gift of Robin Rowe
National Archives Catalog CollectionJohn F. Kennedy Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 1676934)
National Archives Catalog SeriesPost Presidential Collection (National Archives Identifier 1676966)
Use Restriction StatusUnrestrictedUse Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.In Collection(s)
Not on view