Ella Gaunt Smith Rank
About Ella Gaunt Smith
Ella Gaunt Smith, born Ella Louise Gaunt, was an American business executive, noted for manufacturing innovative and beautiful dolls. Her “Ella Smith Dolls” were among the best-selling toys in the early 1990s.
Background & Personal Life
She was born in Troup County, Georgia, and was raised in Roanoke, Alabama. She was educated at LaGrange College. She was married to Samuel Smith throughout her adult life.
Career
Ella’s passion for sewing led her to opting for a career as a seamstress. However, she also spent years fixing broken dolls of her neighbors and experimenting with various ways to manufacture studier dolls. Eventually, she became a full-time doll manufacturer, selling primarily to her neighbors and friends. Then, in 1904, she showcased her dolls at the “World’s Fair” and won a Grand prize for establishing a nationwide market for her innovative product.
In 1905, she received the patent for her dolls, “Alabama Babies,” also called “Ella Smith Dolls.” However, she held eleven patents at the time of her death. Her dolls were also nicknamed “Roanoke Indestructible Dolls” for their high durability and strength. Between 1899 and 1932, her enterprise “Ella Smith Doll Company,” produced over 8,000 dolls annually. It was also one of the earliest manufacturers of African-American dolls.
Cause of Death
She died from diabetes in April of 1932.
Ella Gaunt Smith Rank
Viewers of Ella Gaunt Smith, also viewed
F.A.Q. about Ella Gaunt Smith
When is her birthday?
Ella Gaunt Smith's birthday is on April 12, 1868.
In how many days is her birthday?
Ella's birthday is in 155 days
How old was Ella when she died?
She was 63 years old.
When did she die?
She died in April 2, 1932.
How old would she be today?
Ella Gaunt Smith would be 156 years old if she was alive today.