SALEM, Ore. — Raggedy Ann, that symbol of wholesomeness and simpler times, joined flashy Barbie at the National Toy Hall of Fame — thanks to the persistence of legions of fans.
The floppy cloth doll with reddish yarn hair, a candy heart and red-striped legs joins Mr. Potato Head, the Hula Hoop, Barbie, the Slinky and Silly Putty at the hall.
Because of tough competition and limited space, Raggedy Ann had been rejected four times by the selection panel.
There were 90 nominees this year, including G.I. Joe.
Many of Ann's supporters consider the humble rag doll superior to Barbie and were miffed that Ann had been passed over so many times.
"Barbie represents an idealized image of beauty. Raggedy Ann represents a huggable, lovable friend," said Patricia Hall, a San Diego author who has written books about the Raggedy Ann phenomenon.
Ann's fans stepped up their campaign in support of the 87-year-old doll this year. On Wednesday, their persistence paid off.
Kim Baldwin, spokeswoman for the hall of fame, said she has read hundreds of letters from Raggedy Ann fans living as far away as Japan.
One was from an 85-year-old woman who recalled her childhood memories of the doll. Another was from an elderly man who said he took Raggedy Ann with him on air missions during World War II.
Johnny Gruelle created Raggedy Ann in 1915 to entertain his sick daughter. Raggedy Andy, the doll's brother, was born in 1920.
Ann and Andy have starred in numerous books, comics, cartoons, movies and even a musical. Raggedy Ann was especially popular during the Depression and World War II because she reminded people of times gone by.
Gruelle's granddaughter, Joni Gruelle Wannamaker, was at the Wednesday induction ceremony.
She said that after the September terrorist attacks, Raggedy Ann is a fitting choice for the National Toy Hall of Fame.
"After Sept. 11, people are looking for comfort and love and compassion," she said. "You can always cuddle a Raggedy Ann doll."