Martha Chase, Progressive Kindness
American doll maker and entrepreneur Martha Jenks Chase worked during an exciting time in American history, the progressive era (1896-1917 ) a time of social change, political reform, recognition of the rights of women and workers.
Chase was a wife and mother living in Pawtucket, Rhode Island and was an advocate of progressive principles. She came from a medical family and observed advances in science, nutrition, child development and medical care. When it came to her children she wanted toys that would stimulate their imagination, be robust, washable, ready for all their childhood adventures and cuddly too. Not satisfied with the china and bisque dolls available Martha worked to create her own doll more in line with her progressive philosophy.
Throughout the history of doll making we see innovation as a reflection of what is happening in society. This exhibition at the Barry Art Museum not only showcases Martha Chase’s inspiration to create a play doll that was tactile, unbreakable and fun, it is also the story of the community of artists and craftspeople that the dolls built .
Martha Jenks Chase a woman born in the Victorian age with progressive ideas about health, society and toy design.
Mrs Chase’s doll making studio was aptly named “The Doll House”.
