Originally published August 24, 2011 at 1:11 PM | Page modified August 24, 2011 at 9:58 PM

Rosalie Whyel Museum of Doll Art to close

The award-winning Bellevue museum includes a resource library, community room and garden.

Sad day for many who enjoyed visiting the museum. My mother-in-law who turns 88 today f... (August 24, 2011, by smelltherose) Read more

This collection of dolls spans such a period of time to see the fabrics, manufacture, g... (August 24, 2011, by Anna Bee) Read more

I don't think dolls are a thing of the past nor do my neighbors daughters! I collect... (August 24, 2011, by luna1sierra) Read more

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The Rosalie Whyel Museum of Doll Art in Bellevue will close March 1, 2012, Whyel announced today.

The museum at 1116 108th Ave. N.E. opened in September 1992 in a distinctive two-story building blending Victorian and modern elements. Whyel's collection includes more than 1,200 dolls plus teddy bears, miniatures, dollhouses and other toys.

"It is unfortunate so many doll museums have closed their doors in the last few years. We were hoping not to be one of them," Whyel said in a statement. "We will continue to be collectors and look forward to sharing in the doll world and having more time to enjoy our family and the many friends we have made along the way."

In 1994, the museum was awarded the Jumeau Award at the World Congress of Dolls for best private doll museum worldwide.

Seattle Times staff