Retired Historical Doll Kirsten Larson

Goodbye Kirsten Larson.

Despite several ‘Save Kirsten’ campaigns, American Girl has gone ahead and retired the second of its original historical dolls, Kirsten. With Samantha being retired last year, this leaves only Molly as the only historical doll originally introduced by the Pleasant Company (which later became American Girl).

Although American Girl has stated that they are only doing this to make room for new historical dolls (Rebecca Rubin was introduced earlier this year), it’s curious that they have chosen to retire their most popular dolls first. From a business perspective you would think that the least popular dolls would be retired as they are not as profitable. By retiring their most popular dolls faster than they introduce new ones, is American Girl phasing out their line of Historical Dolls in an attempt to increase the popularity of their customized “Just like You” line?

Not knowing American Girls marketing plan, their decision to retire their popular dolls has certainly paid off based on the rush of customers attempting to purchase Kirsten and all her accessories before they are gone (only her books will remain available from American Girl). Now only time will tell when the next historical girl will be introduced and if she will be as popular as Kirsten (or Samantha).

But as far as today, it’s sad to have to say good bye to such a wonderful doll.