American Girlhood: A Window into History

Presented in partnership with the University of Pittsburgh’s Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences, this special day focused on America’s favorite historical dolls will feature a book talk with three American Girl book series authors, a delightful tea party, paper doll making, and more.

Anchoring the program are authors Connie Porter (the ADDY WALKER® series), Jackie Greene (the REBECCA RUBIN ™ series), and Wendy Wan-Long Shang (CORINNE ® series) who will share their experiences writing the powerful narratives of these beloved characters. The trio will discuss how they framed important historical events and issues for younger audiences while also imparting lessons of resilience, friendship, and empowerment throughout.

Ahead of the book talk, kids and kids-at-heart are invited (with their dolls!) to an enchanting tea party that Samantha, Molly, and Felicity would be proud of! Enjoy light refreshments and imaginative play while you sip, savor, and socialize.

Throughout the day, you can also dip into your own childhood nostalgia and design a paper doll, view girlhood-inspired artifacts in the Detre Library & Archives, learn about the American Girl Doll Lending Program at local libraries, participate in a themed scavenger hunt, and browse the Riverstone Books pop-up shop.

Join us to celebrate these iconic dolls that have inspired generations of girls to face challenges with courage and recognize the strength in their stories.

Schedule

11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. | Tea Party (SOLD OUT)

Bring your dolls and join us in the Mueller Center for an enchanting tea party.

1-3 p.m. | American Girl Authors Presentation and Q&A

Dive into the storytelling magic with the authors of the American Girl ADDY, REBECCA, and CORRINE books.

11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. | Museum Activities

• Paper Doll Making – Cut and color your own characters and build a paper doll house!
• Girlhood Artifacts & Archival Materials – View artifacts and archival materials from the History Center collection.
• Allegheny County Library Association – Discover the American Girl Doll Lending Program and learn about historical literacy activities you can enjoy alongside your doll.
• Riverstone Books Pop-Up Shop – Shop American Girl classics and other historical stories with Riverstone Books.
• Daring Dolls Scavenger Hunt – Explore the museum with a scavenger hunt inspired by historical artifacts connected to girlhood in different eras.

Admission

Admission is $10 for adults and free for kids, thanks to the generosity of community sponsor UPMC and UPMC Health Plan. Admission includes access to all activities, including the author presentation.

The tea party is now SOLD OUT.

The tea party and the author presentation will take place in the museum’s Mueller Center on the fifth floor. The paper-doll making activity will take place in the museum’s Multipurpose Room, located inside Discovery Place on the third floor.