GOULD FAMILY
A DOLLHOUSE EVOLUTION 

Just like almost every young girl, Reesey Shaw received a dollhouse of her very own.

But at eleven years old instead of filling the house with Barbies or modern doll furniture, Reesey dedicated her time to finding antique pieces to put in her home. Influenced by her mother’s own larger collection of antique furniture, Reesey would buy small collector's items to go into her dollhouse, a true artist and art historian at work.  It wasn’t just a toy—it was a tiny, miniature museum, a world of history and imagination all wrapped up in a small, wooden structure.

The dollhouse now stands as a testament to the wonder and creativity of childhood. From the brilliantly painted walls to scenes of bullfighters and restful chairs, every piece seems alive with movement and vibrancy. In one room, a doll in a lemon dress stands invitingly, welcoming visitors to explore a space where historical memory mingles with the dreams of a young girl. The varying sizes of the objects in each room create a whimsical, Alice-in-Wonderland-like effect—where the viewer can lose themselves for hours, studying the intricate details and thoughtful placement of each item.

There was one piece that stood out above all the rest:  an iron stove. It wasn’t just any stove—it was heavy, old, and almost regal, with intricate ironwork. Bought for five dollars from the endless savings of the owner’s weekly allowance, it is the most expensive item in the collection and represents a centerpiece in the dollhouse, its small, ornate details adding a touch of elegance to the rooms, and making the tiny space feel like it had a history all its own.

But there was one more part of the dollhouse that made it truly unique: its origins. Made in 1850 by an unnamed enslaved person in South Carolina, Reesey’s mother bought the house from a family that had passed it down for generations.  The craftsmanship was remarkable, even though the creator’s name had been lost to history. This made the house all the more precious. 

Eventually, lights were added to the dollhouse to showcase the fantastical objects inside. When the house was lit up at night, it became a glowing, magical little world. The lights cast long shadows, making the furniture and figurines appear ghost-like. The flickering glow gave the house a haunted aura, as though it was alive with past memories. 

Even now, when the dollhouse glows softly in the dark, it evokes a sense of wonder. One small, whimsical creation holds within it so much history, so much imagination, and so much heart.