This summer, fashion- conscious Barbie dolls and sleek Matchbox cars will be strutting and cruising at Planting Fields. The exhibition, "Heels and Wheels: The Big Noise Around Little Toys" chronicles the history of these toys. The show is revealing about the broad culture of American life, particularly in the 1950s, 60s and 70s during the initial heyday of Barbie's and Matchbox toys. This period of huge, post-World War II suburban expansion with massive new interstate road projects, car manufacturing and an explosion of the fashion industry, is directly reflected in the toys exhibited. The show will be held in the 1957 Manor House with its stylish rooms, which make a perfect backdrop for the glamorous Barbies.
In the exhibition the dolls and cars are grouped chronologically, diorama-style, on individual stands. The dolls are accompanied by vintage print advertisements. An old issue of Life magazine features Hollywood star, Grace Kelly, whose dress on the cover inspired the inaugural run of Barbies in 1959.
