Historical Society To Examine Social History Of Dolls

Dolls From the Revolution to 1920 will be the topic of the next program offered by Newtown Historical Society, Tuesday, November 13, at 7:30 pm in the community room of Booth Library on Main Street. Though often perceived as playthings for girls and a hobby for women, the program will examine the world of dolls in a larger context of history adapted to please all ages and genders.

The program will be presented by Melissa Nash Coury. Ms Coury will bring a selection of her own dolls to illustrate such questions as: Who did dolls represent? Who were they made for? How did world events influence the types of dolls available at any given time in history, both in terms of style and materials? And, how did dolls reflect the societies and times of which they were a part?

Ms Coury is a former librarian and spent several years as an antiquarian bookseller and antiques dealer. With a background of three generations connected to antiques, she is now an independent consultant and appraiser in the general antiques field.

In addition to her library degree, Ms Coury has studied history at Princeton and New York University, and holds a certificate in appraisal studies from NYU. She is also a member of Appraisers Association of America. This will be the last Newtown Historical Society program for the fall season. Please note the Tuesday date, due to the Veterans’ Day holiday. All society programs are free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served at the conclusion of the program. Call 426-5937 for further information.