As I live here in Chicagoland for over twenty years, Marshall Field’s Department store on State Street with the iconic clock is one of the Chicago’s highlights. This particular heirloom dollhouse, 1970’s Colonial Mansion by Hall’s Lifetime Toys is believed was created for Marshall Field’s & Co. This one is still sought after by collectors today.
This 1970’s Colonial Mansion may be considered as “plantation style” but it did not have any other trim, like a balcony. It has a Greek revival with the columns and triangular shape on the top front. The painted green roof is plain, sloping on each side. 4 rooms total with a staircase, covered in red suede. A fireplace. 2 rooms upstairs and 2 rooms downstairs, all beautifully wall papered. Each window is plastic stapled with painted white curtains and green wooden shutters.
I love the lithographed front door design as it stands out elegantly. Happy viewing!
along with the other images below
Dollhouse and Furniture Advertising: 1880s-1980s by Dian Zillner
State & Washington Street – with its iconic clock
The iconic Walnut Room at Marshall Field’s (now Macy’s) on 111 N. State St. below
I have a Marshall Fields Dollhouse from 1970 that we will sell.
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Hi Jill! Love your blog! I just received one of these Hall’s dollhouses from my aunt. I want to do some renovations to it, but I’m concerned about potential lead in the paint. Any information or experience you have with this would help! My daughter wants to fix it up and play with it so bad!
RD
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Thank you so much—I’m so glad you’re enjoying my blog!
How wonderful that you received a Hall’s dollhouse from your aunt.
Since these vintage metal dollhouses were made long before today’s safety standards, I would definitely be cautious about the original paint, especially if your daughter will be playing with it. I wouldn’t sand, scrape, or disturb the old finish until you know what you’re dealing with. You can purchase a lead-paint test kit or have it professionally tested.
If lead is present, I’d personally preserve it as a collectible/display piece rather than renovate it for a child to play with. Another option would be to keep Mom’s vintage house for display and find a newer dollhouse for your daughter that she can decorate and renovate herself.
I love that your aunt’s dollhouse has stayed in the family—what a special piece of childhood history!
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