American Girl Doll

Ohio History

Addy the American Girl

This doll from the American Girl collection filled a complete display case with her accessories. Named Addy Walker, based on the African name Aduke, she was released in 1993. She was the company's very first African American doll. This is remarkable since American Girl had been producing dolls since 1986 and had already released Native American and Mexican characters. Addy was the fifth historical character of the American Girls and represents the Civil War era. She is based on the American Girl book series by her name, in which Addy and her mother escape from slavery to Pennsylvania. The books explore economic and social issues through Addy's life in Philadelphia. The scene below is from the second American Girl book, Addy Learns a Lesson.

Addy at the Schoolhouse