The Atlas Obscura Podcast Cabbage Patch BabyLand General Hospital
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Jan 6, 2025 Freelance writer Joshua Rigsby shares his whimsical adventure to Babyland General Hospital, the birthplace of Cabbage Patch Kids. He describes the enchanting environment and the unique opportunity for visitors to adopt their own doll, customizing everything from hair color to the 'live birth experience.' Rigsby also explores the fascinating history and cultural craze surrounding these beloved dolls, revealing how intense demand in the 1983 holiday season created unforgettable shopping chaos. His journey transforms how he views these charming toys forever.
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Trip to BabyLand
- Writer Joshua Rigsby visited BabyLand General Hospital, the birthplace of Cabbage Patch Kids, on a family trip.
- The billboards advertising the hospital caught his kids' attention, leading them to the site.
Arrival and Tour Choice
- Upon arrival, the Rigsby family was asked if they wanted the "live birth experience."
- They opted for a self-guided tour instead, starting with a museum about the dolls' history.
Doll Origins
- Cabbage Patch Kids were created by Xavier Roberts using a German needle molding technique.
- He faced a lawsuit with another doll maker, which was settled out of court.