Mickey Mouse!

Early Mickey Mouse stuffed toy. Temporary loan, courtesy Patricia Connally.

It is common knowledge that Mickey Mouse was a great success for Walt Disney, the start of what has become an entertainment empire. As Walt said in 1954, "I only hope that we never lose sight of one thing – that it was all started by a mouse."

This early Mickey Mouse doll, about 8 inches tall, was the much-loved toy of Patricia Connally. Mickey Mouse made his debut as an animated character in November 1928 in the short film “Steamboat Willie,” co-directed by Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks. Disney himself voiced Mickey Mouse.

Soon after the success of “Steamboat Willie,” Disney recognized the financial potential of licensing merchandise based on the film. The first Mickey Mouse stuffed dolls were produced commercially in 1931, followed by a McCall’s pattern in 1932, so that people could make their own Mickeys in three sizes.

This Mickey and more modern ones are part of the exhibit Kids! Kids! Kids!: Growing up in Rensselaer County which will be on view until December 21st, 2018 at the Rensselaer County Historical Society, 57 2nd Street, Troy, NY. Stop in to see the whole show Thursdays from noon to 8, Fridays and Saturdays from noon to five.