This was my very first Native American doll, brought to me from Cherokee, North Carolina. She used to have braided thread-like hair with a headband and feather, but either the dog got it or something else.

This is her original dress, which is very faded.

Native American doll from Cherokee, NC – circa 1970s

The underside of the dress has retained its original color. There is also a tag on the backside that reads: MADE IN HONG KONG

Original color

Now for some “real” Native dolls. I took these photos at various Native American festivals. Unfortunately, I am unaware of their origin. (If anyone has any helpful info, I’d certainly appreciate it!)

Native American dolls

Native American dolls

Native American dolls

Native American dolls

Native American Chief

Native American doll collection

Native American doll

Obviously, some of these are not handmade.

Various Native American dolls

This one appears to be very similar, but much smaller, as my own doll.

Tiny Native American doll

These appear to be made of straw or corn husks.

Handmade Native American dolls