Origin of the Ragdoll
The Ragdoll Breed was developed by a woman called Ann Baker; the origin is believed to date from the early 1960’s in Riverside, California. Ann Baker helped her neighbour Mrs Pennels nurse back to health a Feral Cat after it had been injured during a car accident. This cat was named Josephine. Josephine was a white haired Persian Angora semi feral cat. Anne Baker recognized the special qualities and traits in the litters that were produced by this cat.
Ann gave a home to one of these kittens, whom she named Buckwheat and registered her with the National Cat Fanciers Association. Ann borrowed another cat from her neighbour called Blackie, and used him in her breeding programme, along with another cat called Raggedy Ann Daddy Warbucks.
Eventually three of Josephine’s offspring from Anne’s breeding programme were the foundation stock of the Ragdolls of today. Although there are many myths surrounding the Ragdolls it is important for us to remember that they make wonderful loyal companions.