HAPPY NEW YEAR
2025 ROUND UP FROM THE COMMITTEE
LOOKING FORWARD TO 2026

 

As we step into 2026, our club continues to thrive, welcoming new members who bring fresh interests and expertise. The past year has been filled with memorable events, enriching talks, and growing friendships. Here’s a look back—and a glimpse ahead at what’s to come.
Highlights from 2025
How much can you recall? Here’s a rundown to help…
• January: Members shared their latest acquisitions.
• February: Samy Odin introduced us to rare Paper Dolls from their collection, including the Jeu de Metamorphic (1630), Tuck, Nestle, and Belles Dames of the early 20th century.
• March: Nick Forder presented on Collecting Dollshouses.
• April: Alan Scott Pate shared the fascinating history of Japanese Friendship Dolls.
• May: Carol Cameron discussed identifying the age of Early Wooden dolls.
• June: Donelle Denery explored Kamkins and the story of artist Louise Krampes.
• July: Kath Aitkins demonstrated the breadth of Armand Marsaille’s work beyond the iconic 390s.
• August: Bradley Justice detailed Barbie’s fashion evolution and her roots in Japan.
• November: Sue Niles led a thought-provoking session on what defines an Artist Doll.
• December: Anne Coleman shared the story of her Hamleys gift—Ottenburg Henry VIII and his wives.

We ended the year with heartfelt London and Zoom Christmas parties, mixing celebration and memories from VE Day, reminding us what a very special club this is.
Special Events & Thanks
• June: Over 20 members visited an outstanding Dollshouse collection on one of the hottest days of the year.
• Gratitude: Sincere thanks to Leigh Gotch (C\&T), Daniel Agnew (SAS), Daniel Brookbank (Cobham fairs), and Hilary Pauley (“200 Years of Childhood” in Kensington) for their vital support, enabling our collections to flourish.

Publications & Communication

  • Plangon: Four issues were compiled, edited, printed, and delivered on time. All talks are covered in depth and can be revisited on our developing website. Eternal thanks to Christina for her dedication, and to Lesley for packing and sending each issue. Thanks also to C\&T and SAS auctions for their sponsorship.
  • Calendars: Christina curated professional photographs from members’ collections, organized printing, and distributed over 30 calendars—contributing to club happiness and funds.
  • Newsletter: Twelve issues were published, featuring articles from many members. Thanks to Jonny for ensuring timely delivery and maintaining this valued resource.
  • Facebook: There are over 52 members who used Facebook last year. The  DCGB  private facebook page continues to be a source of communication, news and ideas in an instant and visual way. Thanks go to Tracie Vallis for managing this for us all.

Trips Abroad

  • Chartres (March): Four days by Eurostar, a stay in a 3-star hotel, visits to a private collection with Samy Odin, the Chartres Auction, and the Chartres Doll Fair.
  • Amsterdam & Utrecht (November): Seven days, direct Eurostar travel, seven nights B\&B in Amsterdam, visits to collectors and museums, Utrecht Antiques Fair, and a mini doll dressing workshop. Both trips were filled with laughter and friendship.

                                                     Looking Forward to 2026

2026 is already shaping up to be another exciting year as our calendar fills and membership grows. Full details on events can always be found in the Newsletter, Plangon, and on our website.

Upcoming Activities:

  • Zoom Talks:
    • ‘La Poupee Modele’ with Samy Odin
    • The famous Thorn Rooms at the Metropolitan Museum
    • American ‘Lancaster Dolls’
    • Dollshouse Miniature Paintings with Susan Dossiter
    • Two additional talks to be confirmed
    • Christmas Party
  • London Meetings:
    • Queen Victoria and her life through Dolls with Carol Cameron
    • Dolly Dialogues on Bru, Paper Dolls, and Dressing Dolls
    • Home-made Dolls with Jani Handley
    • Grecon Dolls with Zoe Handey
    • Christmas party
  • Other Events:
    • Club outing
    • Visit to a member’s collection
    • London and Zoom Christmas parties
  • Ambitions:
    • More short trips to fairs abroad
    • A public exhibition
    • Further development of the website

Thank you to all members, contributors, sponsors and committee for making our club vibrant and welcoming. Here’s to another year of learning, sharing, and celebrating our passion together!