Wow! That Oughta Be In a Museum!

Collecting as Play

Beverly Henline loved to play with paper dolls as a child. As an adult, she bought her first paper doll at an antique show in Wichita. It was a nostalgic experience, reminding her of rushing home after school to play with her sister.

Beverly continued to buy paper dolls simply because she loved them. From that first purchase her collection has grown to thousands. Beverly has begun a computerized list of the dolls to help her remember which ones she owns.

Others enjoy Beverly's collection through her programs on the history and fashion of paper dolls. The programs are especially popular during women's history month in March and for Mother-Daughter banquets in May.

Beverly shares a feeling with other collectors that her collection is an extension of her self.

"I would have to be really desperate for money before I would sell my collection. They are just part of me."

Pictured above, Beverly Henline and her paper doll collection in Wichita.

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