Take a step back in time and explore the world of dolls at Timeless Treasures, a pop-up museum-style doll show presented by the Olympic Peninsula Doll Club, set for 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 16, at Sherwood Assisted Living, 550 West Hendrickson Road.
The event is free and open to the public, welcoming all ages to relive memories and share in the holiday season’s early magic.
The Olympic Peninsula Doll Club, established in 1974 by local residents Sandy Brehan and Dolly Creasey, recently celebrated its 50th anniversary.
“I grew up around these dolls, watching my mom and others in the club share their collections and stories,” said club president Christine Brehan, Sandy Brehan’s daughter, who has been part of the community since she was a child. “Being able to share the love and history of dolls with new generations is such a joy.”
Brehan said vintage and rare dolls are not just toys; they are windows into history, culture and personal memory.
“Dolls and toys are a snapshot of history,” Brehan said. “They reflect the materials, fashions, and societal values of their time. For many collectors, each doll tells a story about who made it and why it was cherished. I love the ‘puzzle’ aspect of discovering these origins.”
Among the “timeless treasures” on display will be dolls and toys representing several decades and styles, from vintage baby dolls and antique mannequin dolls, which predate Barbie as fashion icons, to ball-jointed dolls (BJDs) beloved for their customizable, modern aesthetic. Select items will also be available for purchase.
“We’re thrilled to partner with the Olympic Peninsula Doll Club for this event,” said Janaye Birkland, Sherwood Assisted Living’s administrator. “It’s not only a wonderful way to bring joy and spark conversations across generations but also a unique opportunity for residents, families, and our community to come together. There’s something magical about seeing parents, grandparents, and children connect over cherished toys and memories.”
In addition to historical dolls, Brehan and others will showcase modern creations by artists like Elizabeth Cooper, known for her handmade “Orphan Train” dolls, each named after a real child from the historic Orphan Train Movement of the late 19th century.
Brehan’s own Orphan Train doll, a red-haired girl named Josephine, holds a special place in her collection.
“Dolls like Josephine remind us of significant moments in history and serve as powerful educational tools,” she said. “They’re more than just toys; they’re conduits for storytelling and empathy.”
The Olympic Peninsula Doll Club’s mission to celebrate and preserve the artistry and history of dolls is evident in each of its members. Monthly meetings often feature “travel dolls” or “travel bears,” small companions that club members bring along on vacations to document adventures through whimsical photos.
Brehan’s travel bear, Murray, and Dolly’s bear, Murphy, have accompanied the club’s families on countless journeys, creating cherished memories for generations.
“It’s those small moments and memories that bring the most joy to our lives, and dolls offer a tangible connection to those times,” she said.
For those who may not consider themselves doll collectors, Brehan has one piece of advice: “Leave your grown-up self at the door and open up to child-like wonder. Whether you come to relive your own memories or just to see something new, this event has a little magic for everyone.”
For more information about the Olympic Peninsula Doll Club, contact Brehan at ckb104@gmail.com or 509-860-6652.
For more information, call Sherwood Assisted Living at 360-683-3348.
Photo by Christine Brehan / Olympic Peninsula Doll Club memorabilia on display.
Photo by Christine Brehan / At left, Olympic Peninsula Doll Club co-founder Sandy Brehan shares a moment with current club president (and her daughter), Christine Brehan.
