‘Dolls of Color’ program reveals historical surprise

Saturday, April 23 was the "Dolls of Color" programs and displays at the Glenna Voyles Dollhouse museum at Midwest Old Threshers in Mt. Pleasant.

Dolls representing many cultures were on display and discussed. Some examples were African, Native American, Oriental, Caribbean and Arabic among others.

Due in part to the first really nice weekend this spring, the attendees, although not large in number, were warmly welcomed and very interested, appreciative and enjoyed the day. Many shared their personal dolls, who also enjoyed a day out!

There were visitors from a variety of area towns and cities.

Irene Croston of Middletown spoke on Oriental dolls, Eskimo dolls of Alaska, and the Skookum dolls representing the Native Americans.

Marilyn Homsey of Marion spoke on the wonderful beaded dolls of Africa, providing handouts.

Glenna Voyles spoke on several types of dolls, including the story of the real "Aunt Jemima (a lady named Nancy Green), the Golliwogs and many others.

All were represented by actual dolls of each chosen subject. Everyone was given pin gifts of a little Black girl doll named "Mindy Lu" by Voyles and thanks to the helpful Grant Davidson at Midwest Old Threshers.

There was a surprise "Doll with a Secret" shown by Voyles.

While preparing her personal dolls for exhibit, she chose a small French doll with a winning doll show ribbon pinned to her skirt. The ribbon was over 80 years old and had been awarded in the country of Martinique.

Upon freshening the doll for her "day in the spotlight," Voyles chose to remove her turban for cleaning and pressing.

Inside was a surprise — a brownish and crumpled piece of newspaper. Upon carefully removing this and using a warm iron to soften the aged wrinkles, the headline revealed the mentioning of HITLER!

The newspaper was of course, all in French. After many attempts to locate an interpreter, the very helpful former Mt. Pleasant High School French teacher Meredith Scott was contacted.

The translated article read as follows: An Interview Between Hitler and Regent Horthy, Berlin August 22. The small article revealed: The Admiral Horthy, Regent of Hungary, went to Berchtesgaden to visit the Fuhrer, Chancellor. In the German political world, it was stressed that this interview had an absolutely private nature.

The date? 1937.

Scott, researching further, learned the Regent Horthy wound up saving the lives of many Jews, but had a very confusing history.

Wouldn't we all love to know more? Any readers with information?

We have the wonderful Anne Frank museum in Danville and now another piece of history from that time lands in Henry County.

The majority of the "Dolls of Color" will remain on exhibit for the near future. Anyone with questions may call Midwest Old Threshers for contact information.