NC Museum of Dolls, Toys & Miniatures
Preservation, Education and Fun
Formerly Spencer Doll and Toy Museum

NC Museum of Dolls, Toys & Miniatures

Click here to edit subtitle

The NC MUSEUM OF DOLLS, TOYS & MINIATURES Presents the 2020 Calendar of Events

Everyone is invited to join our events at NC Museum of Dolls, Toys & Miniatures in Spencer, North Carolina. We certainly have a lot in store for you!

~ American Girl Kaya doll. Discover this Native American girl's story~ 

A Junior Collectors’ Adventure


Saturday, April 4th from 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Spencer Women s Club, 100 Third St. Spencer, NC 28159

Registration includes:
Displays * Door Prizes * Snacks * Programs * Souvenirs

The Rowan Doll Society will sponsor a Jr. Doll Collector adventure based on the American Girl doll named Kaya. Join us at the Spencer Woman’s Club as we learn about Kaya’s life and adventures as a Native American female in 1764, make some fun crafts, have snacks and then draw for fabulous prizes and give-aways. A tour of the NC Museum of Dolls, Toys & Miniatures is included.

The cost of the event is $25.00 for 1 adult and 1 child. Additional fee for extra children and adults. Advanced registration required. 
The Spencer Woman’s club is located at 100 Third Street in Spencer next to the fire station.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE is April 1st, 2020.  No refunds after March 27th. Limited Seating.

It's A Mod, Mod World! 


Saturday, April 18, 2020 from 11:00am – 4:00pm

Country Club of Salisbury
747 Club Dr. Salisbury, NC 28144


Internationally known doll historian, Bradley Justice will take us back in time with a "Far Out" program celebrating 1970 era dolls and events (Crissy, Dawn, Kiddles, Barbie, Flatsy, Leggy, etc).


$60 per person prepaid registration includes:

* Luncheon & Program * Silent Auctions * Helpers * New Museum Exhibit * Souvenirs
* Refreshments @ Museum * Sales Tables @ Museum


After the luncheon, attendees are invited to the opening of a new exhibit at the NCMDTM. The museum is located a short five-minute drive from the Country Club. In conjunction with this luncheon, a fundraising campaign will be announced for the relocation and renovation of the NCMDTM with opportunities to donate to this campaign and receive a gift!


Bradley Justice is a doll historian whose primary focus is Fashion dolls of the 60s and 70s. Proprietor of the Swell Doll Shop, Member of the UFDC collections oversight committee, Contributing editor for Antique Doll Collecting Magazine and recipient of the Barbie Best Friend Award.   


REGISTRATION DEADLINE is April 8, 2020.  
No refunds after April 1. Limited Seating. 


Antiques Appraisal Fair (Roadshow Style)  AND Benefit Sale and Antique 


Appraisal Fair & Yard Sale will last for 2 days.

August 24 & August  25 

Want to know the price of a  family heirloom, yard sale bargain and long-lost items salvaged from attics and basements? Bring them on in and let our experts reveal the fascinating truths about your special finds.

Antique dealer Michael Hansen will take a look at your items. He will also offer advice and information regarding a broad spectrum of general merchandise, including toys. Appraisal cost is $5 per item.

Come shop through a large variety of items including:

Antique Dolls, Modern Dolls, Doll Accessories, Doll Clothes, Toys, Action Figures, Model Trains, Diecast Vehicles, Miniatures, collectibles & much more etc.

Saturday, September 12

"A Salute To America" - A Special Cultural and Doll Themed Luncheon


Guest Speaker, Sue Pop, will present an exciting program "American Ragtime." Sue is a member and past president of the Doll Collectors of America (DCA), a club which promotes the study of Antique dolls. She has published articles in Antique Doll Magazine and the DCA Bulletin. Her doll, Abigail, a cloth doll made in Brown County, Indiana, was the subject of her research and article. Abigail was given a new home in a permanent exhibit at the Smithsonian in 2015 because of her amazing history.

Sue also belongs to the Doll Study Club of Boston, the United Federation of Doll Clubs. In addition, she is a certified UFDC judge for national and regional competitions.

She will touch on some of the early commercial makers of cloth and rag dolls, as well as a few examples of home made cloth dolls of the same period (late 1800s through pre-WW2). She will bring examples of home made cloth dolls of the same period (late 1800s through pre-WW2). No cloth doll program would be complete without mention of Miss Columbia and the Adams sisters. 


Each Registration of $80.00 includes:  Displays *Helpers * Door Prizes * Luncheon * Museum Tour * Programs * Sales Tables * Souvenirs * Museum Reception


Special Features: Extensive American cloth doll exhibits on display and Sampling of Foods.  


REGISTRATION DEADLINE is September 5, 2019. No refunds after August 15th.  Limited Seating. 

October 2-5

Ride-A-Long  with us to the Ohio Doll Show 

Cost: $125.00


Join us as we travel to The Ohio National Doll Show. This amazing show offers an expansive 24,000 sq ft salesroom with dolls and toys ranging from antique to modern.  The sales room is made up of many well-known dealers from across the country.

We'll leave at 9am on Friday, October 4 and will return late on Sunday, October 6. Ride with us and enjoy transportation, snacks, prizes, games and your dolly companions! 

Saturday, October 10 

Celebrate NAME Day 

8:30am - 4:00pm

THE CRAFT ROOM, Part II 


We are excited to have you join us for the second and final project of the Dream Craft Room.  


We'll create the sink, cabinet base and more storage to go along with the craft table created last year. Registration will open in September.


December Dates to Be Determined  

Toys for Tots 

Tea with Ms. Claus

Jingle Bell Tea 


Previous 2019 Events hosted by The NC MUSEUM OF DOLLS, TOYS & MINIATURES 

COME JOIN US FOR TEA & COOKIES WITH MRS. CLAUS

 

Times Available on Sunday, December 8, 2019 

1:30pm Family Friendly  $28 for one adult and one child pair 

3:00pm Adults Only $20 per person (21+ includes a sparkling cocktail) 

 

Mrs. Claus will pay a special visit to the NC Museum of Dolls, Toys & Miniatures. Dress your little ones in their holiday finery for a modern twist on the traditional afternoon tea with Mrs. Claus.


Join us for tea, cookies, story time and more! In addition, your young ladies and gentlemen will spend their creative energy indulging in crafts like writing letters or drawings to Santa.

 

The cost to attend is $28 for one adult and one child pair. Additional fees are $13 for each additional child or $15 for an additional adult.

 


Want to celebrate with a sparkling cocktail? Adults can join us at 3:00pm for a light afternoon tea, museum tour and more!


Mrs. Claus has agreed to pose for pictures, so don't forget to bring your camera. All Children will receive a new doll as a wrapped gift.

 

To register please call the museum at 704-762-9359.


Night At the Museums with GI Joe

February 16, 2019

Showtimes: 5:15pm and 6:00pm

Registration Required: Adult/Senior $25, Child $15, Family of Four $75.


Grab your MAGIC key and board a trolley for an evening of fun as you watch two museums come to life! The NC Museum of Dolls, Toys & Miniatures is partnering with the Rowan Museum to bring you a night of unforgettable fun.  


Your journey will begin at the Doll, Toy & Miniature Museum where you'll meet LIVE characters like a Daniel Boone, Teddy Roosevelt, a Western Cowboy, Barbie, an Egyptian Prince and a few troublemakers. Then board the Trolley for a short ride to the Rowan Museum where the fun and crazy characters continue. 


Enjoy interactive scavenger hunts and exciting exhibits. Conclude the evening with a buffet dinner and movie clips of “Night at the Museum.” Tickets are on sale now!  Call the Museum at 704-762-9359 to register. 

This "Night At the Museums with GI Joe" program is part of the NC Transportation Museum’s 49 Days of Gratitude: A Celebration of Thanks, which celebrates the 70th anniversary of North Carolina's Merci Train boxcar's arrival in Raleigh on Feb. 8, 1949. The Merci Train was a gift to the people of the United States from the people of France, given in appreciation for the United States’ help to the French during World War II. To learn more, visit www.nctrans.org

Let's Make A Doll ... Male Doll House China Doll Workshop 

Instructor,  Kristine Fisher

Saturday, February 23, 2019 from 10:00am - 4:00pm

Registration Required: $75.00


Workshop includes Door Prizes * Lunch * Museum Tour 

Join award-winning doll artist, Kristine Fisher for a hands-on workshop at the NC Museum of Dolls, Toys & Miniatures (formerly Spencer Doll and Toy Museum). Students will learn basic dressing skills on a 5 1/2” inch porcelain male doll. We’ll create a reproduction of an antique China doll perfect for your doll house. He is hand painted with black stockings and black slippers. Clothing will consist of shirt, pants and vest. Bring scissors, glue, toothpicks, needles and thread. Kristine will bring supplies as well as fabrics or you can use your own fabrics. Body kits will be provided. 


Only 2 spots remaining. Please call to reserve your place in this amazing workshop. 

A Bodacious  Birthday Bash - Celebrating Barbie’s 60th!

Saturday, March 9, 2019

Registration Required: $50.00


11:00am – 1:30pm Program & Luncheon at the Country Club of Salisbury

2:00pm - 5:00pm Birthday Party NC Museum of Dolls, Toys & Miniatures


Let’s Celebrate in style for Barbie’s birthday with Internationally known Barbie expert, Educator and distinguished author Bradley Justice. Enjoy a scrumptious lunch, an award winning program and a fabulous party!


Birthday Swag Bag includes a Barbie doll and party favors * Games/Fun Activities * Cake * Sales Tables * Door Prizes * Luncheon * Museum Tour * Helpers * Commemorate this Special Occassion with Fun Photo Props


After the luncheon, attendees are invited to the Birthday Bash and Grand Opening of a Special  Barbie exhibit curated by Bradley Justice. The museum is located a short five minute drive from the Country Club.


*****************SOLD OUT EVENT*****************

Tea and Jive like it’s 1945 w/American Girl’s Molly & Nanea

An Event for Both Young & Young At Heart


Saturday, March 16 , 2019

Program Presenter, Cheryl Philips 

1:00pm-3:00pm

Registration Required: Adult Ticket $15 and Children's Ticket $10 (under 18) 


This Tea (Party) will include games, doll displays, door prizes, snacks, souvenirs and a program on the life and times of the American Girl characters Molly & Nanea. These AG stories revolve around the lives of two 9 year old girls and their families - one on the home front of WWII in Illinois and one at the start of WWII in Hawaii.

This is a perfect outing for adults and children. The event is hosted by the NC Museum of Dolls, Toys & Miniatures. After the party, attendees will tour the Doll, Toy & Miniature Museum at 108 Fourth Street Spencer, NC 28159. The museum is located a short 1 block walk from the Woman’s Club. * Please indicate if food allergies are present.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE is March 12, 2018. No refunds after February 28th.


**Two lucky winners will receive an authentic American Girl doll! Drawing will be held during luncheon.**

Registration includes: Program on Molly * Snacks * Museum Tour * Scavenger Hunt * Souvenir

This "Tea and Jive with Molly & Nanea" program is part of the NC Transportation Museum’s 49 Days of Gratitude: A Celebration of Thanks, which celebrates the 70th anniversary of North Carolina's Merci Train boxcar's arrival in Raleigh on Feb. 8, 1949. The Merci Train was a gift to the people of the United States from the people of France, given in appreciation for the United States’ help to the French during World War II. To learn more, visit www.nctrans.org

Book Premiere Party and Luncheon

The Cissy Files 2- Reference, Rarities, and Restoration

Program Presenter & Author Kiley Ruwe Shaw

Saturday, April 06, 2019

Registration Required: $85.00 includes Book 


This highly anticipated book has a publication date in Spring of 2019. The book is a reference for the vintage Cissy doll, manufactured by the Madame Alexander Company from 1655-1962. Cissy was the first American fashion doll and has an amazing wardrobe with over 250 iconic outfits. The book has over 1200 color photos and detailed descriptions. This new book also includes sections on wigs, Jane Miller, MA history, rare sun-dresses as well as chapters devoted to restoration for both dolls and clothing. Kiley’s first books in the series are regarded by collectors as the most comprehensive doll books available today. This new book is both beautiful and informative, a must have for those who love dolls and mid-century style.

  

Limited Seating and Books Available. 

********SOLD OUT********


Staying Overnight? We've booked a block of rooms at the Econo Lodge which is located just a few miles from the Doll, Toy & Miniature Museum. Please call the hotel at 704-431-4542 and book your room. The Econo Lodge is located at 1328 Jake Alexander Boulevard South, Salisbury, NC 28146. The group rate is approximately $66.00 per night. 

The Reservation Block is saved under "The NC Museum of Dolls, Toys & Miniatures. Please let us know you're staying. We have a special "welcome bag" for you! 

Can My Doll Doll Be Fancy & Useful? 

Doll Scissor Holder Workshop

Instructor, Marla Gilbert

Saturday, May 25, 2019

Registration Required: $65.00


This scissor holder is made to ensure that your scissors are kept safe. The decorative antique-styled doll is wrapped in antique lace and fabric. Vintage white kid-glove  leather is used to accentuate the holder. Photo forthcoming. 

Antiques Appraisal Fair (Roadshow Style)
The Benefit Sale and Antique Appraisal Fair will last for 2 days.

Date: June 7 & 8 

Time: 10:00AM- 4:00PM


Want to know the price of a  family heirloom, yard sale bargain and long-lost items salvaged from attics and basements? Bring them on in and let our experts reveal the fascinating truths about your special finds.

Antique dealer Michael Hansen will take a look at your items. He will also offer advice and information regarding a broad spectrum of general merchandise, including toys. Appraisal cost is $5 per item.

Benefit Sale 

Dates: June 6 & 7

Time: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM


Come shop through a large variety of items including:



Antique Dolls, Modern Dolls, Doll Accessories, Doll Clothes, Toys, Action Figures, Model Trains, Diecast Vehicles, Miniatures, collectibles & much more etc.

“ A French Soiree ”

An around the world adventure with the NCMDTM

- A Special Cultural and  Doll Themed Luncheon

"Antique & Modern" French Doll Luncheon

Saturday, September 14, 2019


Each Registration of $75.00 includes:  Displays *Helpers * Door Prizes * Luncheon * Museum Tour * Programs * Sales Tables * Souvenirs * Museum Reception

 

Special Features: Extensive French Doll exhibits on display and Sampling of French Foods.  


REGISTRATION DEADLINE is September 10, 2019.

No refunds after August 15th.  Limited Seating. 

National Ohio Doll Show - Transportation Cost Only

Friday - Sunday October 4, 5, 6

Ride Along with Us to the Show

$100.00


Join us as we travel to The Ohio National Doll Show. This amazing show offers an expansive 24,000 sq ft salesroom with dolls and toys ranging from antique to modern.  The sales room is made up of many well-known dealers from across the country.


We'll leave at 9am on Friday, October 4 and will return late on Sunday, October 6. Ride with us and enjoy yummy snacks, games and door prizes which will keep the trip lively! 


On Saturday

  • 1pm - Let's attend Barbie's 60th Birthday Party Bash Luncheon ​with Bradley Justice at 1pm
  • 4pm - Learn from Steiff expert Rebekah Kaufman (aka Steiff Gal), "The History of Steiff Bears"
  • 7pm - Enjoy a sit down candlelit dinner and a program by world renown French doll authority, Valerie Fogel. 

On Sunday 
Let's shop til we Drop at the DOLL SHOW from 10 until 4 pm.  

Save your room at the Roberts Centre Convention Center and book your transportation with us. 

For more information about the show, hotel and pre-show events visit ohionationaldollshow.com

Limited Seating.  

ARCHIVED EVENTS: 

WORK SHOPS TEA AND TRUNK SHOW WITH INTERNATIONAL ARTIST STEPHANIE BLYTHE-ARCHIVED- PAST EVENT


Fantasy, especially fairies, has always characterized Stephanie Blyth's astonishing work. Join an International Doll Artist at the North Carolina Museum of Dolls, Toys & Miniatures for two fun and creative workshops, a special exhibit and trunk show. Stephanie's work has been featured across the globe including the Louvre Museum, The White House Christmas Tree, Neiman Marcus, Goebel & Richard Simmons .... Just to name a few


In this 3 hour class, you will be making a tiny porcelain baby nestled in a silver spoon, wrapped in textures and vintage leaves.

 Silver Spoon Baby Class will include - Friday, April 21, 2018 10am-1pm
*1 China painted baby head sculpted and handcrafted by International renowned doll artist Stephanie Blythe.
*An abundance of magical textiles to work with
*Vintage Velvet leaves
*A choice of silver plate teaspoons (sterling silver spoons will be available separately or bring your own teaspoon)

You will learn how to make a miniature ribbon rose, a miniature bow, and a finished silver spoon baby.

*Maximum 18 students. Price $85.00 per person
*Please bring: small scissors and magnifiers

Mini Merbaby Workshop -  Saturday, April 21, 2018 10am-1pm
In this 3 hour class, you will be making a tiny porcelain baby mermaid reclining in an abalone shell blanketed with a variety of tiny seashells.

Baby Mermaid Class will include:
*1 China painted baby head sculpted and handcrafted by International renowned doll artist Stephanie Blythe.
*Metallic Fabric, silk netting and vintage lace which you will hand dye
*Tiny seashells, an abalone shell and tiny jewels and embellishments
Note: You will learn how to use special dyes to color the fabrics for your merbaby tail &assembly

*Maximum 18 students. Price $85.00 per person
*Please bring: small scissors and magnifiers


TEA AND TRUNKSHOW-  Saturday, April 21, 2018 10AM-1PM

Enjoy an afternoon of tea in an intimate setting at the Country Club of Salisbury. Program by Stephanie Blythe. Includes Souvenir and Museum Tour


*Cost is $35.00 per person


Mama Mia! We're Touring Italy - A Special Cultural and  Doll Themed Luncheon
"Antique & Modern" Italian Doll Luncheon

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2018

 

Programs will highlight the history of Italian Dolls.  

Guest speaker Bradley Justice is a life long doll collector and active member of United Federation of Doll Clubs.   He serves as chairman of the Collections Oversight committee and is active in sharing his love and passion of dolls.  Recipient of the Barbie's Best Friend award and the UFDC awards of excellence.

Join him as he explores the post war era of the Italian doll industry and how it evolved through the last half of the 20th century.  Learn about Furga, italocremona and other fabulous doll companies.


Each Registration of $75.00 includes:  Displays *Helpers * Door Prizes * Luncheon * Museum Tour * Programs * Sales Tables * Souvenirs * Museum Reception

 

Special Features: Extensive Italian Doll exhibits on display and Sampling of Italian Foods.  


REGISTRATION DEADLINE is September 10, 2018.

No refunds after August. 15th.  Limited Seating. 


All proceeds from the luncheon will benefit the North Carolina Museum of Dolls, Toys & Miniatures (formerly Spencer Doll and Toy Museum). The mission of the NCMDTM is to provide educational and cultural experiences through the preservation and collection of dolls, miniatures and toys.

 

Event Location: Country Club of Salisbury, 747 Club Drive Salisbury, NC 28144. 


Sew Me A Dress Workshop with Leeann & Denis Bastien
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2018
9:00am-12:00pm - Workshop & Program
12:00pm -1:30 Lunch and Museum Tour (Bring your bagged lunch. Tea, Coffee & Dessert provided.) 
1:30pm-4:00pm Shopping - Open to All 

Who wants Fun, Friends, Dolls, Sewing & Shopping?

Join internally known doll artist, Denis Bastien, for a one day fun sewing workshop. Based on his “Petite Fille Modele” patterns each participant will choose between pre-sewn bodices and skirt panel in many, many different lengths and fabrics to create their own dress. There will be lots of ribbons, buttons, flowers available to further customize their creation. Although a sewing machine will be at your disposal, a bit of hand-sewing and some creativity is all that is needed to complete a dress for Leeann and/or similar sized dolls.

Cost: $39.00US - Includes "Petite Fille Modele" pattern and
one kit. Registration can be made by calling there Museum at 704-762-9359 or [email protected]


What Else?
People who do not wish to participate in the workshop are welcome to join us for the shopping portion of the day and a tour of the NC Museum of Dolls, Toys & Miniatures. Affordable Designs - Canada will have a sales display and lots of stock. Dolls, outfits, shoes, accessories, patterns …everything your "dolly heart” desires. (cash, personal checks, and/or debit/credit cards will be accepted)
You’re Invited to special Meet & Greet with NC Representative Harry Warren 
on SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 from 2:00pm - 4:00pm.
You'll enjoy getting to know Harry during this informal and intimate setting. Harry is currently serving as a Republican member of the North Carolina House of Representatives representing the 77th district which includes part of Rowan County, North Carolina. He is also a member of First United Methodist Church in Salisbury, NC. 

The event will take place at the NC Museum of Dolls, Toys & Miniatures located at 108 Fourth Street Spencer, NC 28159  Light Refreshments will be served. This event is sponsored by Susan Lane Morris. This event is free of charge.