Welcome to BabyLand General Hospital, a unique and whimsical destination located in Cleveland, Georgia. This isn’t your typical hospital; it’s the birthplace of the beloved Cabbage Patch Kids, a line of soft sculptured dolls that took the world by storm in the 1980s. The story begins with Xavier Roberts, an artist and entrepreneur who, in 1978, combined his passion for sculpture with the art of quilting to create the first Cabbage Patch Kids. These dolls were originally known as ‘Little People’ and were sold at craft fairs across the United States.
In 1979, Xavier Roberts opened BabyLand General Hospital, a place where visitors could witness the ‘birthing’ of Cabbage Patch Kids from their magical cabbage patch. The concept was simple yet enchanting: dolls were ‘born’ from cabbages and then adopted by eager parents. The hospital quickly gained popularity, attracting visitors from all over the country who were eager to experience the magic for themselves.
One of the major milestones occurred in 1983 when Roberts partnered with toy manufacturer Coleco to mass-produce the dolls, leading to the Cabbage Patch Kids craze. The dolls became a cultural phenomenon, with millions sold worldwide, and their popularity continues to this day. Over the decades, BabyLand General Hospital has evolved, moving to a larger location in 2009 designed to mimic a Southern-style mansion, complete with nurseries and a birthing center where the magic of Cabbage Patch Kids continues.
As you explore BabyLand General Hospital, you’ll encounter the whimsical and charming atmosphere that’s been delighting visitors for decades. From the cabbage patch where the dolls are ‘born’ to the adoption process that follows, every step is designed to captivate and entertain. This location serves as a reminder of the creative and entrepreneurial spirit of Xavier Roberts and the enduring legacy of the Cabbage Patch Kids.