Annalee: A Life of Art, Snow, & Smiles

Annalee Thorndike’s story is one of creativity, perseverance, and joy—woven into the very fabric of the beloved dolls that bear her name. As we celebrate what would have been Annalee’s 110th birthday, we reflect on the simple yet profound things she loved: the snowy winters of New Hampshire, the thrill of creativity, and the endless smiles her dolls continue to bring to collectors worldwide.

A February Baby with a Love for Winter

Born on February 11, 1915, Annalee had a natural fondness for winter and all its magic. Growing up in the picturesque landscape of New Hampshire, she embraced the crisp air, the glistening snow, and the sense of adventure the season inspired. It’s no wonder that many of her earliest doll designs featured skiers and winter scenes—she found beauty in the snow-covered world and translated that wonder into her art.

An Artist at Heart

Annalee always considered herself an artist first. Every moment of her life was infused with creativity. Whether sketching new ideas (often on the closest piece of paper nearby) or experimenting with fabric, she was constantly dreaming up new ways to capture emotion and movement in her dolls. She always wanted to tell a story with her designs and pass that on to those who would own her dolls. She didn’t fully grasp, at first, just how much joy her creations were bringing to people. But as her dolls gained popularity and love from collectors around the world, she became more aware of her impact. This only fueled her desire to keep designing and finding new ways to make people smile. ​She relished her responsibility of making people feel something through her art.

From Humble Beginnings to an Enduring Legacy

Annalee’s journey wasn’t without obstacles. She struggled at school but eventually became a successful businesswoman. She faced challenges as a female entrepreneur, fighting against the biases of her time. Yet she remained determined, building a company that provided jobs for hundreds of people—many of them women who worked from home while raising families. She even pioneered employee benefits ahead of her time, including an in-house daycare and scholarship programs​.

Through it all, Annalee remained deeply connected to the heart of her work. Some might say she was a mother hen always wanting to protect her flock. She cared deeply about her designs and the people around her and always looked for the creative way to bring people smiles. She also never lost her appreciation for life’s simple pleasures—she loved candies, taking boat trips on the lake, and always cherishing the quiet beauty of her home state and reveling in the magic of the changing seasons.

Annalee’s Influence Lives On

Annalee Thorndike’s legacy is still alive today, as collectors and fans continue to cherish her whimsical designs — all still made with art created by Annalee herself. Her dolls capture the spirit of joy, tradition, and artistic expression that she so passionately cultivated. Now in its 91st year, Annalee Dolls, the company she founded, remains dedicated to keeping her creative spirit alive for people of all ages. Browse the 2025 Collection here.

As we celebrate Annalee’s 110th birthday, we honor not just her artistic genius but also the warmth and smiles she brought into the world—one doll at a time. Happy birthday, Annalee!

Want to learn more about Annalee? Check out her official biography: Behind the Smile: The Story of Annalee Thorndike.

New 2025 Designs