The clothespin queens
Duo designs original dolls that celebrate heritage and history
BY KATHERINE LACAZE
Gearhart resident Nancy Bell Ander-
son has adopted the self-appointed title of
“Clothespin Queen,” and for good reason.
These small, seemingly insignifi cant
items have played a rather large role in
her life, from helping her establish the
Knappton Cove Heritage Center to serving
as a productive outlet during the coronavi-
rus pandemic.
“I’ve always liked miniatures,” Ander-
son said.
W orking with wooden clothespins,
scraps of cloth, lace, buttons and other
items enables her to successfully channel
her creativity in a rewarding way.
“I just love doing it,” she said.
Heritage Folk Clothespin Dolls
heritagefolk.com
Instagram: @heritagefolk1
It started decades ago when Anderson’s
father purchased the former Columbia River
Quarantine Station, which occupied more
than 4 acres in Naselle, Washington. The
building was deserted and put up for bid.
For many years, Anderson’s family used
the property as a sport fi shing campground,
called the Knappton Cove Camp.
Eventually, it was subdivided among
Anderson and her siblings. S he was intent
on preserving her portion, the historic
hospital building, and operating it as a
museum.
To help cover the cost of making pay-
ments to her mother, property taxes and
other bills, Anderson turned to her affi nity
for crafting and started designing and sell-
ing clothespin dolls.
See Page 14
A doll made by Nancy Bell Anderson and
Heather Henry.
Katherine Lacaze
Nancy Bell Anderson, left, and her daughter, Heather Henry, are the creative masterminds
behind Heritage Folk Clothespin Dolls.
ORIGINAL FINE ART
on the waterfront
port of ilwaco, wa
marie-powell.com
360-244-0800
Katherine Lacaze
Nancy Bell Anderson has designed hundreds of original clothespin dolls.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 5, 2021 // 7