If you grew up playing with a Raggedy Ann doll, as many of us did, you’ll be pleased to learn that this character was created right here in Illinois! The author grew up in a small town right here in the Land of Lincoln which makes Illinois the official birthplace of Raggedy Ann and Andy. Ready to learn all about this famed doll and how its history ties in with Illinois!?

Johnny Gruelle, the creator of Raggedy Ann and Andy, grew up in Arcola, Illinois, which is where he invented these beloved characters and the others that graced his books.
Wikimedia Commons/Daniel Schwen
The story goes that he had drawn a face on an old rag doll and later given it to his child when he had a daughter in the early 1900s.
Wikipedia/ChesPal
Gruelle received a patent for his Raggedy Ann character in September of 1915, but the excitement of this success was overshadowed by the immediate death of his daughter who passed due to an infection caused by a vaccination.
Flickr/Bernard Spragg. NZ

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Regardless, once Gruelle continued with his project, he started writing books. That is when Raggedy Ann's brother Raggedy Andy joined the cast.
Flickr/Troy Hakala
The first book of stories about Raggedy Ann was introduced to the public in 1918 and it included a slew of other characters as well.
Flickr/in pastel
Generations of children would grow up with the story of two rag dolls that come to life and go on wild adventures when humans aren't looking.
Wikimedia Commons/Johnny Gruelle
If this story sounds like another story you're familiar with, just remember that the original idea was born right here in Illinois.
Wikipedia/Daniel Schwen

 

Do you have a Raggedy Ann or Andy doll? Did you know that Illinois was the birthplace of Raggedy Ann and Andy? Share your photos and stories with us below in the comments. Or, for more Illinois history, check out these 13 hidden gems in the Land of Lincoln.

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Birthplace Of Raggedy Ann And Andy

Marisa Roman | April 25, 2021

What is Illinois known for?

In case you’re in the mood for a little bit of Illinois trivia, we have a few fun facts that you can take with you. While we mentioned that Arcola, Illinois is known as being the birthplace of Raggedy Ann and Andy, what about the state as a whole? For starters, Illinois is known as being the “Land of Lincoln” as President Abraham Lincoln spent most of his life living here. A few other little-known facts about Illinois include being the place where the very first McDonald’s was built, as well as the fact that Illinois is said to produce more nuclear energy than any other U.S. state!

What stereotypes are there about Illinois?

Every state has its own stereotypes, whether they are resident imposed or visitor created. Illinois is no different. This midwestern state has its own set of stereotypes, whether true or not, it’s usually up to the residents to decide. A few stereotypes about Illinois that you’ll like learn about if you visit include the fact that either you live or you know someone who lives on a farm, you’re either a Cubs fan or a White Sox fan, otherwise get out. Also, Chicago-dwellers are incredibly different from Illinois residents. Check out more Illinois stereotypes and decide for yourself whether or not they are true.

What are the best things about living in Illinois?

Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls are one of the many things from Illinois that make residents living here feel proud. But what are some of the best things about living in Illinois? If you ask any resident during wintertime, they might not say much, but in truth, living in Illinois is the best. First, you can eat Portillo’s whenever you want by just finding the closest drive-through and chowing down. Plus, have you ever had a deep dish pizza before?! Additionally, Illinois always has a sporting event to root for, whether it’s the Cubs, Bears, or Bulls. Plus, you just won’t find nicer people elsewhere in the country. Check out a few more reasons why living in Illinois is the best.

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