Some people never outgrow their toys.
Some of those toys are now museum- worthy collectibles.
Consider the more than 14,000 items — Matchbox cars, action figures, porcelain dolls, dollhouses and the like — in the collection of the Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls and Toys at 1880 Gaylord St.
Fans of these miniature masterpieces — along with all kinds of collectible toys — can find plenty of offerings today and Sunday, during the museum’s annual fundraiser show and sale. More than 50 dealers will present their wares; ongoing workshops will offer hands-on projects for even the youngest collectors.
Kids can make their own treasure chest, complete with costume jewels, coins and toy skeletons, or decorate a miniature bedroom scene. Adult workshops teach the art of creating these tiny homes, from crafting miniature houseplants to building pint-sized bookcases.
“Some of the miniatures are not so much for kids,” says Wendy Littlepage, director of the musuem. “They are artisan miniatures of handmade pianos or sterling-silver place settings. They can be really quite amazing.”
Throughout the year, the museum’s neighbors also are happy to show off collectible teddy bears and Barbie dolls.
“We often feature great temporary exhibits,” Littlepage says. “Lots of people have amazing toy collections.”
After 29 years in existence, the museum has a large network of artists and collectors to call on for special exhibits. Several years ago, it organized an exhibit with local G.I. Joe collectors.
“It was huge,” Littlepage recalls. “We saw every major theater of American military involvement represented, from World War I to Vietnam to Iraq.”
The museum’s collection includes collectibles from around the world. French porcelain dolls are valued for their high quality and artistry, while the museum’s Japanese friendship doll is one of its most rare and valuable pieces. Clad in a green kimono and a flowered crown, “Miss Yokohama” was part of a doll exchange in the 1920s.
“There was one for each state, and she was given to the Denver Public Library,” Littlepage says. At least 30 of the original set of dolls still survive; the Smithsonian now owns one.
“Toys are sort of universal across the world,” she says. “Kids love to play with the same things everywhere.”
Including grown-up kids. “You have to compromise with a real house,” Littlepage says, “but you can decorate a dollhouse any way you want.”
Hello Dollies
The Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls and Toys presents the 29th annual Miniature & Doll Fall Show and Sale
When: Today from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Doubletree Hotel Denver Tech Center, 7801 E. Orchard Road, Greenwood Village.
Admission: $7 for adults; $4 for children over 3.
Information: 303-322-1053 or
