Rare Find Primitive Moravian Handmade Handpainted Polly Heckewelder Charity Doll

This rare primitive cloth, rag doll was handmade by the Ladies Sewing Society of the Central Moravian Church in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.

She is known as the Moravian Charity Doll. She was named after Polly Heckewelder, the founder. Her beautifully well-preserved face and hair were hand painted. Her bonnet is sewn to her head. She comes with her original hand sewn clothing, which includes pinafore, dress, bloomers, slip, one stocking and shoes.

*She is missing one stocking and the sole off of one shoe*

There is some wear which is to be expected for her age other than that she is in remarkable condition.

The Charity Dolls were first made to aid wounded Civil War soldiers after the war the dolls were sold and the funds used to help former slaves.

It is estimated that there were approximately 6,000 made that have been sent throughout the world.