Introducing the loveable Golly character to the next generation of traditional toy lovers
With a history of over 100 years, Golly is even older than that of his best friend, Teddy.
Golly was first created in England in 1895 by Florence Upton as a character in her children’s book, in which Golly was just one of a cast of toy characters. He proved so popular, she later published ‘Golly and the Two Dutch Dolls’ and many other golly stories.
Golly was a colourful, kind, fun-loving personality who had many appealing adventures with his doll friends. He was second only to the teddy bear in popularity.
In the 1960’s Enid Blyton, who wrote about ‘come-alive toys’ also added Golly to her books. In her stories he was a lively, friendly character with a mischievous sense of humour. Although never actually banned, during the ‘politically-correct’ 1980’s both Golly and Enid Blyton disappeared from the shelves for some time.
In addition to this, around 1910 James Robertson visited the Southern States of America and saw children playing with colourful rag dolls made out of scraps of black fabric. He was entranced by them and decided they would make a wonderful image for his jam products. ‘Robertsons’ used the Golly logo on their jam products for over 91 years when it was replaced by Roald Dahl characters more familiar to children.
It’s amazing how attitudes have changed over the last 5 or 6 years, possibly due to the Centennial celebrations. Common comments like ‘But I thought you weren’t able to sell Gollys, are usually followed in the same breath by ‘I had a lovely golly as a child’. Many people nostalgically remember the colourful, happy little dolls they had as a child and are thrilled they are back.
Brigitte Rive has been involved in creating Gollys for over 12 years. working alongside her mother, Robin, an international award-winning bear artist. Her Gollys are famous for their sweet smiling faces and bright funky clothes.
Her 2 ranges ‘Brigitte Rive Huggables’ & ‘Brigitte Rive Collectables’ are based on traditional Gollys but with a modern twist incorporating exciting patterns and bright colours inspired by the South Pacific. Each one has its own unique character and charm and all have Brigitte’s distinctive BR signature on the foot. Our lovable black dolls have kind, gentle faces and gorgeously soft hair, fantastic to touch. They are designed in New Zealand, have removable clothes, some are fully jointed and are here to stay as a treasured family heirloom, cherished by both adults and children in the UK, USA and elsewhere in the world.
Golly is back in people’s heads, hearts and homes and is destined to inspire a new generation of golly lovers. Our Gollys are lovingly created simply to make you smile.
Cuddle and Enjoy!!!
'A Friend Today… An Heirloom Tomorrow'
