The Changnon Family Museum invites you to explore a pop-up exhibit inspired by the “Happy Birthday” books of the Historical Characters. Join us on the back lawn for a themed picnic to follow!

In honor of American Girl’s 40th anniversary, Blake Changnon and The Changnon Family Museum of Toys and Collectibles invite you to explore a special pop-up exhibit inspired by the beloved Happy Birthday books of the Historical Characters.

This mini museum brings to life the first seven Historical Characters’ birthday stories. Through rare and original artifacts from the museum’s collection, visitors will discover how birthdays were celebrated across different times and places in American history, and how these moments welcomed readers into each girl’s world.

Just as American Girl has spent 40 years inviting children into the past through story, this exhibit celebrates the birthday books that first introduced readers to each girl—and the worlds they have been returning to ever since.

This exhibit is hands-off to protect these fragile, one-of-a-kind items from the museum’s collection. Visitors of all ages are welcome, as long as museum etiquette is observed; however, we recommend this experience for ages nine and up.

Come celebrate history, storytelling, and the magic of first introductions—American Girl style.

Attendees are invited to join us for a picnic on our back lawn featuring light refreshments after they see the collection. Please bring your own picnic blanket.

This exhibit is independently curated and is not affiliated with or endorsed by American Girl or Mattel.

Registration is required for this event, and will open on April 26, 2026. Registrants will have the opportunity to view the collection and walk through the exhibit. Groups will be contacted prior to the event with an assigned fifteen minute time slot to walk through the collection. Requests as to timeslots will be honored when possible, but are not guaranteed. As part of County Government, MCPL does not collect personal information other than for the purpose of providing programs or services.