Stranger things in Georgia: BabyLand in north Georgia grows the Cabbage Patch Kids
North Georgia is home to one of the most popular toys in America.
BabyLand General Hospital is the "birthplace" of the Cabbage Patch Kids in the outer section of Cleveland, about 9 miles south of Helen.
Just like a real hospital, BabyLand guests are welcomed by a nurse who asks them to sign in. After doing so, they may begin their self-guided tours. In the front room are display cases with some of the earliest version of the doll dating back to 1978, some are worth tens-of-thousands of dollars. The nurseries have hand-stitched dolls made by local artists available for adoption.
Upon leaving the nursery, guests find a Magic Crystal Tree where new Cabbage Patch Kids are "born" alongside cribs full of baby dolls that are only available at BabyLand. Those who adopt will bring their baby doll to an adoption office where they will take an oath of adoption and complete their papers, similar to a real adoption.
But the wonders aren't just inside the palatial BabyLand. Outside are the Gardens At Eula Springs, a tribute to the mother of Cabbage Patch Kids Founder Xavier Roberts. Different varieties of native azaleas, irises, day lilies, amaryllis, and other plants have been cross-pollinated. Guests can walk among the flora or enjoy the sights from a rocking chair on the porch.
BabyLand Spokesperson Margaret McLean said it's exciting to see guests come from all over the world and to see multiple generations visit.
"We had one collector who was a baby when she first came and now she has two children of her own," she said. "From those who are nostalgic to new collectors, new visitors are coming daily. We're thrilled about that.
BabyLand is located at 300 N.O.K. Dr. It's open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. Admission is free, but prices for dolls vary. More information is available at cabbagepatchkids.com.
This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: BabyLand General Hospital in Cleveland is the Cabbage Patch Kids' home