An Update from Blake Changnon
A message from Blake Changnon, founder, president, and CEO of The Changnon Family Museum of Toys and Collectibles:
Hi friends! Today is my birthday, and I thought it was the perfect time to share an update. It has been a while since you last heard from me or the museum, and so much has happened!
This summer I had the joy of returning to Colonial Williamsburg, the place that inspired Pleasant Rowland to create American Girl. In July, I helped bring to life a wonderful event with my dear friend Valerie Tripp, the author of so many beloved American Girl books, including Felicity’s. Valerie spoke movingly about the Historical Characters she created and about the meaning Colonial Williamsburg holds for her. The event was completely SOLD OUT, and it was incredible to see fans of all ages arrive with their dolls in hand. I’m grateful to the Williamsburg staff for their warm hospitality and for capturing one of my favorite photos of Valerie and me together.
Even more exciting, our very first pop-up exhibit, Back to School with American Girl, is just weeks away at the Connie Morella Library in Bethesda, Maryland. Registration for free tickets opened on September 1, and as of today—we are SOLD OUT! I am beyond thrilled (and still pinching myself) that so many of you are excited to see the collection in person. If you registered, I cannot wait to welcome you soon.
Another highlight: my good friend Janine Napierkowski and I were invited back to the @americangirlwomen podcast! We talked about how our shared love of American Girl sparked a fast friendship and how that connection has led to many collaborations on American Girl–related projects. If you haven’t already, I hope you’ll give the episode a listen, and check out our articles on the museum website!
Looking ahead, there are still three more displays coming this year in our ongoing exhibit Addy Walker: Why She Matters.I am also hard at work on new virtual exhibits and other projects planned for 2026 and beyond—so stay tuned!
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for supporting the museum and for helping me share these stories, collections, and memories with the American Girl community. ❤