Babyland General Hospital

Babyland General Hospital is a unique attraction located in Cleveland, Georgia, United States. It serves as the birthplace of the Cabbage Patch Kids dolls, which were a significant cultural phenomenon in the 1980s and continue to be popular among collectors and children today. The hospital is designed to mimic a real maternity ward, where visitors can witness the "birth" of Cabbage Patch Kids from the Magic Crystal Tree, adopt a doll, and browse through a wide selection of dolls and related merchandise.

History

The concept of Babyland General Hospital was created by Xavier Roberts in 1978. Roberts, an art student, developed the idea of adoptable dolls with individual names and birth certificates. The original dolls were called "Little People," hand-stitched and sold at local craft shows. The concept evolved into the Cabbage Patch Kids, which were mass-produced and became a global sensation in the 1980s. To promote the brand and provide a unique experience, Roberts transformed an old clinic in Cleveland, Georgia, into Babyland General Hospital in 1978. The facility moved to a larger, 70,000 square foot building in 2009 to accommodate more visitors and enhance the experience.

Attractions

Babyland General Hospital offers a variety of attractions for visitors:

• Magic Crystal Tree: The centerpiece of the hospital, where Cabbage Patch Kids are "born." Visitors can watch a Mother Cabbage give birth to a new doll, complete with a delivery ceremony led by licensed Patch Nurses.
• Nursery and Adoption Center: After witnessing a birth, visitors can adopt a Cabbage Patch Kid. Each doll comes with adoption papers, and the staff conducts a formal adoption ceremony.
• Collector's Club: For enthusiasts, the hospital offers a membership that includes exclusive dolls, newsletters, and invitations to special events.
• Gift Shop: The gift shop sells a wide range of Cabbage Patch Kids dolls, including vintage and limited edition dolls, as well as accessories and merchandise.

Educational Value

While primarily an attraction, Babyland General Hospital also offers educational value. It provides insights into the process of adoption and the responsibilities that come with caring for a doll, mirroring the care needed for a real baby. The hospital also educates visitors on the history of the Cabbage Patch Kids and the process of creating and naming each unique doll.

Controversies

The concept of a doll hospital where children can adopt dolls has not been without its controversies. Some critics argue that the adoption process at Babyland General Hospital commercializes and trivializes the real adoption process. However, supporters claim that it teaches children about adoption in a positive and simplified manner.

Visit

Babyland General Hospital is open to the public year-round, with free admission. It is a popular destination for families, doll collectors, and fans of the Cabbage Patch Kids. The hospital hosts special events throughout the year, including themed holiday celebrations and doll signings by Xavier Roberts.

External Links

• Official Babyland General Hospital Website