American Girl Released Madison-Themed Doll

The company has introduced Daisy Davenport as its 2027 Girl of the Year character.

Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Philanthropy

Bold vector editorial illustration of miniature doll shoes on a wooden desk, symbolizing the heritage of the new Madison-themed doll.
American Girl has released its 2027 Girl of the Year character, Daisy Davenport, a fictional resident of Madison, Wisconsin, to honor the brand’s historic roots. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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American Girl has officially unveiled Daisy Davenport, a 10-year-old fictional character from Madison, as its 2027 Girl of the Year. The 18-inch doll is now available for purchase both online and at retail stores across the country.

Why it matters

The release highlights a return to the brand's origins, as the company was originally founded in Madison in 1986. This connection honors the city where the toy line first gained national recognition before its later acquisition by Mattel.

The new Daisy Davenport figure stands 18 inches tall and represents a 10-year-old character. The brand was originally established in 1986 and later acquired by Mattel in 1998.

The players

American Girl

This premium doll company was founded in 1986 and produces historically-themed and contemporary figures.

Mattel

This multinational toy manufacturing corporation acquired American Girl in 1998 and currently oversees its operations.

Pleasant Rowland

She is the entrepreneur who founded American Girl in Madison in 1986.

The details

The doll features distinctive green eyes and auburn-red hair, reflecting the fictional Madison resident. While the corporate headquarters relocated to California in 2024, the brand continues to recognize its historic ties to Wisconsin.

Timeline

  1. American Girl was founded in Madison in 1986.

  2. Mattel purchased the company in 1998.

  3. The corporate headquarters relocated to California in 2024.

  4. Daisy Davenport was introduced as the 2027 doll on September 23, 2026.

Market Landscape

This release follows the precedent of the 1986 founding of American Girl as a hallmark of its historical brand identity. The move positions the company to reconnect with its core audience by celebrating its original roots in Madison.

Consumers can now purchase the new doll through the brand's website or at physical retail locations nationwide. Pricing and availability remain consistent with the company's standard distribution model for its Girl of the Year line.

The takeaway

The brand continues to leverage regional nostalgia to maintain interest in its physical product line. Collectors and fans can expect the company to maintain its presence in the doll market through continued character-driven annual releases.

Further reading

For more on local community initiatives, visit the Philanthropy section.

Source note: This article includes information reported by WFRV-TV Channel 5.

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