Most people are well-acquainted with the lovable rag dolls, Raggedy Ann and Andy. Yet, despite the Raggedys' legacy as adored American dolls and storybook characters, few are acquainted with how they really came to be. Fewer still know about their visionary and whimsical creator, Johnny Gruelle. Folklorist and singer-songwriter Patricia Hall has authored a number of historical books about Johnny Gruelle and his Raggedys as well as numerous children's books that incorporate the Raggedy characters. She also performs Early American and original songs on guitar and banjo, which she incorporates  in the educational programs and special events she presents on Raggedy Ann and Andy.   

Since 1967, Patricia Hall has collected and researched Johnny Gruelle's books, dolls, artwork, and periodical appearances.

In 1970 and 1973, her Gruelle book collection won in competitions sponsored by the University of California at Santa Cruz and UCLA.

In 1988 Patricia was awarded an NEH Grant-in-Aid to continue her research on Gruelle. In 1990-91, she was Guest Curator for "Magical Hearts," the Indiana State Museum exhibition honoring Johnny Gruelle and Raggedy Ann.

In 1994, Patricia was consultant and writer for the 90-minute documentary video, Raggedy Ann & Andy: Johnny Gruelle's Dolls with Heart produced by Sirocco Productions.


Patricia's Gruelle/Raggedy collection was featured in the November/December 1990 issue of Americana magazine, and has been exhibited by the Fisher-Price Toy Town Museum (1997) and Target Corporation (1998).

Patricia's published articles on Gruelle have appeared in Traces of Indiana and Midwestern History , Table Rock Sentinel, Connecticut , Blue Ridge Country ,The Encyclopedia of Indianapolis, and Cloth Doll . She is a regular contributor to "Rags" and "For the Heart's Sake," two national newsletters for Raggedy fans.


Patricia currently serves as Historical Consultant for the Johnny Gruelle Raggedy Ann and Andy Museum in Arcola, Illinois.

Prior to 1985, Patricia was Education Division Director for the American Association for State & Local History. She holds an M.A. in Folklore & Mythology from UCLA, and a B.S. from the University of California at Santa Cruz and is co-editor of the book Folklife and Museums (AASLH Press, 1987). Patricia Hall lives in San Diego.

Patricia currently travels throughout the USA presenting educational and musical programs for adults and children.

PATTY HALL - NATIVE DAUGHTER OF THE GOLDEN WEST
Patricia Hall's official website. Source of Patty's books, tapes, and music, with links to Patty's programs and press clips.