Doll
The doll was made by the Duchess Doll Corporation. It is about seven inches in height. According to Doll Reference, Duchess was one of many, relatively short-lived doll makers that operated between the 1940s and 1960s, with Duchess only operating into the 1950s. Many of Duchess’ offerings were based on pop culture of the era, such as Alice in Wonderland and Queen Elizabeth II. Our doll, likely a bride’s maid, has auburn hair, blue blinking eyes, a pink crocheted dress and hat, and flowers.
It was owned by Marie Aurea (Marcotte) Rondeau (1934-2015). She was a lifelong Westford resident, living on Pleasant St for most of her life. Some of her Westford Academy notes are highlighted here. In her WA yearbook, she stated her ambition was to become a nurse. She specifically enjoyed crocheting and knitting, as the doll’s pink petticoat appears hand-made. Later in life, she served on the Board of Directors of the Cameron Senior Center.
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