What makes someone or something an American icon? The word seems to be attached to too many things these days. But a real icon is something that stands the test of time, impacts numerous generations, and fits in with the zeitgeist that becomes part of our culture.

The list of American icons is legion. Through the years Annalee has celebrated many of these notables with their own designs. Now, as part of our American Icons series, the elves are honoring two different but equally important “influencers” of our society: Holly Hobbie and Tom Sawyer.

The Country Charm of Holly Hobbie

Let’s take a trip back to a simpler time when life seemed quieter and a bit more innocent. Who better captures this feeling of nostalgia and the values of long ago then the beloved fictional character Holly Hobbie. Dressed in a big oversized prairie bonnet and patchwork dress, Holly Hobbie personified an idealized American lifestyle that seemed less stressful and uncomplicated. Much like Annalee dolls, Holly Hobby endures in our collective memory because of the character’s unique personality traits and design as well as its connection to our childhood memories.

Holly Hobbie was created by artist and writer Denise Holly Hobbie-Ulinskas in the 1960s, first as a series of drawings and greeting cards. (Yes, the “real” Holly Hobbie named the fictional character after herself.) Her drawings became hugely popular and eventually led to the creation of a line of Holly Hobbie dolls and books. Today, the Holly Hobbie character is considered an enduring symbol of Americana that contributes to our cultural identity and shared values.

To commemorate the legacy of Holly Hobbie, the elves at Annalee have created a new exclusive design that pays tribute to this favorite and enduring character (complete with distinct Annalee-style design elements). With her idyllic rustic country costume and innocent demeanor, Holly Hobbie represents a vital component of America’s diverse and dynamic cultural heritage. This tribute design celebrates Holly Hobbie as a favorite childhood character complete with a rustic rag style dress, bloomers, and brown shoes. She holds a bouquet of blue flowers in one hand that is welcoming and seems to say slow down, relax, come sit awhile, and escape.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR! 8in Holly Hobbie Limited Edition releases on April 20, 2023. Sign up for our waitlist to be notified when this exclusive is available for purchase. Only 250 will ever be made and sold. We also suggest signing up for text alerts so that you don’t miss an exclusive design. Text JOIN to 1-844-900-1782 to subscribe!

The Mark of Tom Sawyer

Tom Sawyer is considered an American icon because he represents true American spirit and values. He’s an all-American boy full of mischief, big dreams, and a pure heart. The character was created by Mark Twain (another American icon) in 1876 and has since become a beloved figure in American literature.

Tom Sawyer embodies the adventurous, independent, and curious nature of the American people. He represents the spirit of exploration, self-reliance, and the pursuit of individual freedom and happiness. His story also captures the essence of the American dream, with its themes of social mobility, self-improvement, and the power of imagination.
Tom Sawyer also reflects the American experience of the time and today, with themes of race relations, community values, and the tension between tradition and progress. His story highlights the challenges and opportunities of growing up in America, and the importance of friendship, family, and community.

Nearly 150 years after he was created, Tom Sawyer has become an enduring symbol of American culture, and his story continues to inspire people today. The elves have captured Tom in a pose enjoying one of his favorite pastimes — relaxing next to the mighty Mississippi River with his fishing pole. His tattered vest, blue jean shorts, and burlap hat capture his rough-and-tumble nature and messy boyhood. He’s living his dream life with hardly a worry in the world.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR! Our 4in Tom Sawyer Limited Edition releases on April 20, 2023. Sign up for our waitlist to be notified when this exclusive is available for purchase. Only 250 will ever be made and sold. We also suggest signing up for text alerts so that you don’t miss an exclusive design. Text JOIN to 1-844-900-1782 to subscribe

Holly Hobbie and Tom Sawyer, though fictional characters, have captured the hearts and imaginations of the American people, and people all over the world. They have become cultural touchstones that have endured through strong storytelling, relatable themes, and simplicity.