Toys! at The Henry Ford

Mattel's Barbie Doll, introduced in 1959, was a teenage fashion model with an enviable lifestyle of teenage freedom that included attending parties, shopping for the latest fashions, driving sports cars, and going out on dates. Instead of teaching girls how to care for a baby or keep house, Barbie play offered fantasy play with an endless round of enjoyable, grown-up activities. Barbie achieved immediate and lasting success as a favorite plaything of young girls.

Mattel, Inc.
Hawthorne, CA
Date: 1960-1961
ID: 2001.87.1.1

Barbie Doll
Mattel's Barbie doll represented a radical break from the baby and companion dolls that had dominated doll play since the early 1900s. Sophisticated and stylish, this teenager had no visible ties to parents or domesticity.

Mattel, Inc.
Hawthorne, CA
Date: 1962
ID: 2000.51.1

Barbie Dream House
By the early 1960s, Barbie also had play environments, including this Barbie Dream House. Introduced in 1962, the Barbie Dream House was filled with sleek, modern furniture that included a combination television/stereo console. While relaxing in her very own "space," Barbie could watch herself on television or listen to albums by Nat King Cole, Frank Sinatra or the Lettermen.

Mattel, Inc.
Plainfield, NJ
Date: 1961
ID: 98.57.2

King-Seeley Thermos Co.
Date: 1962
ID: 99.12.35

Barbie Record Tote
Barbie Lunch Box
Barbie's image appeared on a variety of other products, like this record tote and lunch box, that were marketed to Barbie fans. Young girls loved to identify with the glamorous Barbie.