Only One Available: This is an Original WWI Paderewski Polish Victims Relief Fund Doll With Medal. Circa 1915. The Polish Victims Relief Fund was a movement that began during World War I. Polish artisans stranded in Paris began creating and selling the dolls to raise money for the new country, as well as their own return. Dolls were fashioned after holiday costumes of peasants from the different regions of Poland. Early dolls sold for $200 apiece. They were heavily promoted by Mr. and Mrs. Paderewski.
On January 1, 1916 dolls were sold at the Hotel Fontenelle in Omaha for $4 to $15 each. The Omaha Daily News covered the event (1-18-1916). There was also a concert at South High School that raised $700.00 for the Poland Relief Fund. Pianist Ignace Jan Paderewski performed, and it was sponsored by the Associated Retailers.
The back of the medallion reads:
HEALTH AND HAPPINESS TO YOU KIND DOLL-LOVER WHO BY TAKING INTO YOUR HEART AND HOME ONE OF MY LITTLE DOLL WAIFS OF POLAND HAVE FED A STARVING MOTHER OR CHILD IN THAT "SADDEST LAND"
This doll is in excellent condition for it's age but does have holes. Rarely is the medal attached. The doll also has the original sale tag on the back. Measures 11". See photos for condition. Would make a great addition to any WWI collection.
No PO boxes
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