Samantha doll storybooks covers maps of the world where she lived in, and her craft books describes the hobbies that she enjoyed. It is notable that Samantha’s Pastimes, from the American Girls Pastimes Subscription series of books and craft packs, lets young girls engage in the crafts and activities that Samantha Parkington would have done during her time.

There are many Samantha doll accessories: Period-specific outfits, hats, furniture, horses, are eqaually procurable. In the ‘80s, the Pleasant Company released specialty items during special promotions. These are very collectible items, and in particular, the retired Samantha doll accessories are highly sought after.

Samantha doll pram, skates, shoes, accessories

Throughout the years, period-specific outfit have been made for Samantha Dolls. New lines are released and old lines are retired. The retired lines are particularly sought after by doll collectors.

Velvet Dress

School Flannel Dress

Samantha’s story is one of fortitude, acceptance and strength. The themes of her book include child labor, classism and women’s suffrage.  Samantha Parkington grows up in the Victorian era as an only child. At 5 years old, she is orphaned and moves to Mount Bedford, New York to live with her wealthy grandmother. Samantha becomes close to Nellie, an underprivileged Irish servant girl as well as Nellie’s sisters. All of the girls form a bond and are later adopted by Samantha’s aunt and uncle.

The doll is 18 inches tall. The body is made of soft cloth with the movable head and limbs being made of vinyl. Samantha has long, wavy brown hair. It is styled in a way common to the era. She has stylish curled bangs and her hair is tied back with a bow. Her taffeta dress has a checkered print. The dress itself is appropriate for the time period. It has a dropped waist and pleated bottom. She also wears black stockings and black shoes which resemble Mary Janes.