Since opening its doors to collectors in 1985, The Ashton-Drake Galleries has been offering people more than just dolls, but little treasures that come to life in their hands. For me, every doll is a story, an emotion, a moment to cherish forever.
The Bradford Group, based in Niles, Illinois, is home to several legendary collectible brands: Ardleigh Elliott, Ashton-Drake Galleries, Bradford Editions, Bradford Exchange, Hamilton Authenticated, Hamilton Collection and Hawthorne Village. Each of them creates something special for those who appreciate attention to detail and uniqueness.

What makes a doll come alive
Ashton-Drake dolls are known for their diversity: from cute babies and elegant brides to celebrities and fairy-tale heroes. They are created using special RealTouch® and TrueTouch™ materials, as well as silicone and porcelain. But the main thing is not the material, but the master who creates them.
It is the master who gives the doll a soul – makes it unique, gives it character, emotions, life. For more than 30 years, Ashton-Drake has collaborated with the best artists in the world of dolls, including: Wendy Lawton, Julie Goodkrueger, Gabby Rademann, Mary Tretter, Joan Ibarall, Elly Knoops, Waltraud Hanl, Cheryl Hill, Sheila Michael, Ping Lau and Sherry Rawn.

Quality and Craftsmanship
Quality is key. After nearly 40 years of making dolls and memories, Ashton‑Drake remains committed to excellence. Every doll undergoes a meticulous review of materials, construction, and technique to ensure beauty, durability, and timeless appeal.

As Gwynne Gorr, senior director of Ashton‑Drake Dolls, explains:

Everyone on our team truly loves dolls. We know what makes a doll special because we are collectors ourselves. Our goal is that someone who receives an Ashton‑Drake doll will treasure it for decades to come.

Stories of iconic dolls
1985 – Jason and Matthew
Yolanda Bello created the first limited porcelain doll, “Jason”. A year later, “Matthew” appeared, which remains a favorite of collectors to this day. Soft facial expressions, precise detailing of clothing – this is a true masterpiece of porcelain art.

1989 – Little Red Riding Hood
Dianna Effner gave life to the Little Red Riding Hood doll. Her face is so expressive and alive that it is impossible to remain indifferent. This doll launched the Ashton-Drake series of fairy-tale and historical dolls.

1991 – Tickles
Kathy Barry-Hippensteel created a porcelain boy tickled by a caterpillar. This work became notable for its expressive sculpting, as every look and hand movement looks incredibly lifelike.

1993 – Mommy, Can I Keep Him?
Pat Joho and Etta Foran gave the world a teddy bear, which became the beginning of a successful series of collectible plush toys.

1995 – Gene Marshall
Mel Odom revived a series of fashion dolls and accessories inspired by the style of the 1940s-1950s. Each doll is a little story about the elegance of a bygone era.

1997 – First Day at Walt Disney World
Titus Tomescu created the first porcelain baby doll under Disney license, opening a new page in the collection of licensed dolls.

1999 – Winter Romance
Sandra Bilotto presented a glamorous doll with luxurious wedding costumes, which won numerous awards in the industry.

2003 – Emily’s Homecoming
Linda Webb created the first So Truly Real doll with soft RealTouch® vinyl material and natural hair, fixed with a new technique. Emily changed the way collectors look at vinyl baby dolls.

2005 – Ashley
Andrea Arcello created the first “breathing” doll. Her chest movements make her incredibly lifelike and charming.

2011 – Olivia’s Gentle Touch
Linda Murray introduced an interactive doll that squeezes your finger, for which she received the Doll of the Year award in 2012.

2015 – So Truly Mine™
Together with Ashton-Drake, Linda Murray created a line of dolls for children 3 years and older. They are specially made to be 15 inches tall and have a weight that creates the feeling of a real child.

The Collector’s Experience
Collectors are drawn to Ashton‑Drake for the lifelike realism of their dolls and the emotional connection they inspire. Lifelike baby dolls capture fleeting, magical moments and embody the warmth of family love. Adult fashion dolls evoke memories, dreams, and a love for beauty.
The company balances customer feedback with artist creativity, fostering collaboration that produces dolls that are both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. Every release, from My First Christmas Gianna to Grandma’s Precious Gift, is designed to become a cherished memory.

Ashton‑Drake also commemorates historical and cultural milestones, from Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation to the elegance of Princess Catherine, allowing collectors to celebrate treasured moments through artful dolls.

Longevity and Legacy
Entering 2025, Ashton‑Drake celebrated its 40th anniversary, a rare achievement in a world of startups and pop-ups. Its success lies in passion for dolls, deep care for collectors, and enduring relationships with master artists. Each doll is not just a gift, it is a legacy, meant to be treasured for generations.

Whether it’s a lifelike baby capturing a first word, a glamorous fashion doll, or a commemorative portrait, Ashton‑Drake dolls are designed to celebrate life’s precious moments turning artistry into memories that last forever.