History 1980s
1986
The American Girl line launches with three Historical Characters--Kirsten Larson, Samantha Parkington, and Molly McIntire--on May 5th, 1986. Each doll is launched with the first three books in her series and the clothing and accessories that accompany the stories, as well as their pajamas, beds, and storage trunks. The products are only available via mail order, and the dolls have white torsos. While each character's collection was unique to the era, there is a overall color palette across the collections with red, white and blue prominent throughout each.
The first catalog is sent out to 500,000 recipients.[1] Pleasant Company earns $1.7 million in its first year.[1].
1987
The birthday stories and accompanying collection items for Kirsten, Samantha, and Molly are released. The American Girl Benefit Sale is created. The Dress Like Your Doll line is expanded beyond matching nightgowns, allowing a young child to wear outfits similar to the doll's historical clothing.
1988
The summer and winter stories and items for Kirsten, Samantha, and Molly are released. The American Girl Hospital is created for doll repairs.
1989
Character-related crafts and patterns are released. American Girl moves its headquarters to Middleton, WI.
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 "She Wanted to Teach Kids History. Her Idea Became a $700 Million Business", by Jelinda Montes, Inc.Com; published Jul 29, 2026.