Good Golly! Museum row erupts over ‘racist’ dolls
A ROW has broken out over golliwogs that have been on display in a Scots museum for more than half a century.
The toys have been part of the permanent exhibition at the Museum of Childhood on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile since it opened in 1955.
The dolls were popular in the 20th century, but have fallen out of favour because of their racial connotations.
Curators are now reconsidering their place in the museum.
A sign on the golliwog display reads: ‘We recognise that some visitors may feel the golliwogs on display in the museum represent negative racial stereotypes.
‘We do not uphold such stereotypes and do not wish to cause any offence; but believe it is right to display these toys because they were such a significant part of British childhood from the 1890s to the 1950s.
‘As soon as we have the opportunity to upgrade the museum’s display, we will consider alternative ways of interpreting them and reflecting the changes in attitudes towards them.’
The museum, which attracts 250,000 visitors annually, will close in September for refurbishment, reopening in March.
Jatin Hario, executive director of the Coalition for Racial Equality and Rights, said: ‘We would not object to them being part of a museum piece, as they were commonplace and do have historical significance. However, if displayed, there needs to be a fuller exploration of how they allowed and still allow racism to flourish.
‘Otherwise, we and many others will find the Museum of Childhood offensive.’
A spokesman for the Museum of Childhood said: ‘They are part of the history of doll-making. The display documents shifts in childhood toys, cultural understanding and attitudes.
‘The details of which artefacts will go on display and which will go into storage once the refurbishment is complete is still under wraps.’
Visitors defended the collection. Simone StanbrookBryne said: ‘If people take offence, that’s the individual’s problem. They’re part of our history and culture and should absolutely be here. It’s a part of our heritage.’
A City of Edinburgh Council spokesman said: ‘The new gallery will feature new toys and technology alongside long-held artefacts from the collection.’
The original golliwog doll, based on a character created by US cartoonist Florence Kate Upton in 1894, is at the Victoria and Albert Museum of Childhood in London.