Black History Month
*Shindana was created in 1968 and was one of the first manufacturer of Black Dolls. The company closed in 1983. The company was created "in the aftermath of the Watts Riots in Los Angeles. It was founded as a division of Operation Bootstrap, Inc. the nonprofit blak community self-help organization in south central Los Angeles. The founders were Lou Sith and Robert Hall." The name is Swahili and means competitor. "The idea for manufacturing black dolls and games is rooted in Operation Bootstrap's motto, 'Learn, Baby, Learn!'"*
The fashion doll that they created was Wanda. She came in two sizes 9" and 11.5 inches.
The smaller version was called Wanda The Career Girl.
The 11.5 inches came as Disco Wanda. She represented the dance craze during that time and was ready to party at the best clubs in town.
Wanda is in the picture with J.J Evans from Good Times played by Jimmy Walker in the 70"s.
* Black Dolls by Myla Perkins.
I kind of remember the Disco Wanda doll. Is her neck really that long? It almost looks like it's detached, it's so long. Love that outfit she's wearing. Thanks for the history of Shindana. I learn so much from your blog.
ReplyDeleteYes, her neck is that long. I wished they had given JJ a vinyl body.
ReplyDeleteJJ's hands look like feet ☹. I have never seen the Wanda dolls before, but I really do like her face! Is she a good candidate for rebodying to a body whose neck is better proportioned?
ReplyDelete