Raggedy Ann and Andy are probably the most famous of all rag dolls because of the history and publicity they have garnered throughout the years.  Raggedy Ann first came to life back in 1918 when its writer John Gruelle wrote a book about a rag doll dressed in a blue polka dotted dress, wearing a white duster over it and with red yarn for her hair, comes to life when people are asleep or not around.  The inspiration for the creation of Raggedy Ann as a children’s character is after when his daughter, Marcella, brought and showed him an old ragdoll.  John Gruelle came up with the name Raggedy Ann from two combined poems from author James Riley.  These poems are entitled The Raggedy Man and Little Orphan Annie.. Unfortunately, during the debut of Raggedy Ann, John’s daughter, Marcella, died when she was only 13 years old due to a vaccination issued by her school without the knowledge and consent of her parents.  After this tragedy, John Gruelle protested against irresponsible vaccination through his Raggedy Ann books.

Up to today, Raggedy Ann and Andy have been adapted into animation, musical plays and toys.  Precious Moments have kept the tradition of Raggedy Ann and rag dolls in general, with the introduction of the Precious Rag line up.  These dolls still have the traditional yarn hairs but are also incorporated with plastic skins instead of cloth.   These collection includes Raggeddy Ann and Andy of course.

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