Doris' Doll & Toy House

Doris Stewart had a dream, a dream to add a dollhouse at Pioneer Town. The dream was set aside over and over again as other projects took priority. Money was scarce.

In an interview in 2000 Stewart told, “We started thinking ‘dollhouse’ back in the early days of Pioneer Town. The Town was open only on special weekends then, like during holidays and Little Britches Rodeo.

At that time we had some of the buildings but not much in the way of displays, lots of empty shelves.”

Dolls were loaned and a Doll Show scheduled. It was a hit! But, no dollhouse was planned. Doris’ determination and perseverance prevailed. Memorial donations earmarked for the project, followed by numerous fund raising events got the building onto a “to do” list. A campaign to donate funds for specific items such as nails, windows, 2x4’s was started and proved successful. Dedicated volunteers donated time to erect and complete the structure.

The building was completed in time for an open house on May 27, 2000 to coincide with the seasonal opening of Pioneer Town. Eleven glass cabinets, designed for this specific use, lined two walls. Additional display cabinets, purchased at a garage sale were added. Lighting fixtures and overhead fans installed. A rug donated by Glen Hansen was laid and curtains placed at the windows. Dolls and toys were cataloged by Betty Brown and displayed by Lois Baker.

Exhibits include items that have been donated to Pioneer Town or are on loan from a number of interested people.” Many of the dolls are from Velma Shreeves’ extensive doll collection. Others are from Doris Stewart’s collection including Story Book dolls and some of her childhood favorites. Vinneta Butcher has shared some of her collection. Two handmade dolls from the depression days, made by Duane Jackson’s mother, have found a spot in the exhibit. T.J. Shelley of Grand Junction has brought some of her dolls to add to the display. Mary Baker has dolls on exhibit along with an antique china doll donated by Vera Aust. Some of the dolls and toys were brought to the building from elsewhere in Pioneer Town where they had found temporary display space while waiting for a permanent home.

More display cases have been added as treasured dolls and toys have been donated. The exhibit continues to grow, changing from time to time. The variety makes it interesting for everyone.

Doris Stewart has compiled a 35 page publication filled with photos, memories, and her insight from having been there, even before Surface Creek Valley Historical Society was formed. “Surface Creek Valley Historical Society and Pioneer Town: A History” published 1n 2010 include a more detailed account on the Doll and Toy House, available at the Welcome Center, when open.

Sand Creek School House

The school was originally built near the old Wenton Coal Mine (probably in the early 1900's) about six miles west of Cedaredge.

The building has been moved twice since it was built. See it now.