Vintage Native American Souvenir Dolls, c.1950s-1970s

Story

Post-war highway expansion in the 1950s sent millions of families on road trips across the American West. Roadside trading posts and souvenir shops flourished, offering affordable, mass-produced keepsakes that captured the popular imagination of the frontier.

Maker / Origin

While the larger doll mimics the iconic 'Skookum' dolls originally registered by Mary McAboy in 1914, it is likely a later mid-century commercial imitation or licensed tourist trade variant. The smaller plastic figure is a classic example of injection-molded novelty toys produced by various American plastic manufacturers during the post-war plastics boom.

Condition & Value

Both figures show moderate wear consistent with age. The fabric doll has some dust accumulation, loose threads, and minor fading to the textiles, but retains its original beads and headband. The plastic figure has minor scuffs and paint loss on the headdress.