The Simpich
Caroller Collection
The Iconic Simpich Caroller Collection
In the late summer and early fall of 1952, newlyweds Bob and Jan Simpich found themselves wondering how they could possibly afford Christmas gifts for their families back home in Missouri. Money was tight, the holiday trip seemed out of reach, and yet the desire to give something meaningful remained.
That spark of necessity—and a bit of newlywed creativity—led Jan to a simple but extraordinary idea: What if they made the gifts themselves?
What followed was the creation of the very first Simpich Christmas Carollers. Hand-crafted from humble materials and shaped with imagination and heart, those early figures became the foundation of a tradition that would continue for more than five decades. The designs born in that 1952 autumn would grow, evolve, and inspire countless beloved characters—ultimately becoming one of the most iconic collections in Simpich history.
Featured Pieces
What you are about to Explore…
Hello, my name is Toby Simpich, the youngest grandson of Bob and Jan Simpich. I have been working with the Simpich Dolls almost my entire life. I am so excited to be putting together a dedicated living space for the Caroller Collection. Living in two ways…
1. A Home for Collectors Today
Even nearly twenty years after the Doll Shop closed its doors, collectors can still confidently build, complete, or begin their Simpich collections here. Every piece we list is personally certified, inspected, and presented with the same care my grandparents poured into their work.
2. A Growing Archive of Simpich History
This page also serves as an evolving record of what Bob and Jan created over 54 remarkable years—from the simple, heartfelt Christmas gifts they made for their parents during their very first winter as newlyweds, to the bustling workshop that grew into a Colorado Springs icon, filled with more than 100 artisans bringing their designs to life.
So whether you’re looking to start a collection, add to it, finally find that last missing piece, or you’re simply curious about this piece of Colorado history, I’m excited to share with you the Simpich Caroller Collection. And be sure to check back—this page will continue to grow and be updated consistently.
Browse All 35 Simpich Carollers:
The Core Seven Carollers:
Here is where the Simpich story truly begins. Six of these seven figures trace their roots directly back to the original handmade gifts Bob and Jan Simpich created for Bob’s parents in 1952—simple, heartfelt Christmas Carollers that would inspire more than five decades of artistry. A short time later, the beloved Snowball Boy joined their ranks, completing what collectors now know as the Core Seven: the foundation of the entire Caroller Collection.
The Early Additions:
Beginning in 1973, Bob and Jan started expanding the Caroller scene beyond the original seven. The Newsboy and the Teenage Girl (listed as the Caroller Girl) were the first to join the set, opening the door to an era of creativity that continued for decades.
From there, the collection grew to include beloved additions like the English Bobby in 1994 and the Fiddler in 1996—each one bringing new personality, charm, and depth to the world of Simpich Carollers.
The Rare Carollers:
These Carollers were created in the years just before and after 2000—a brief but creative chapter in the Simpich story. Because most of these designs were produced for only a short time, their surviving numbers are far smaller than the Carollers from the mid-1990s and earlier. Today, many of these late-era pieces are among the hardest to find, cherished for both their beauty and their rarity.
The Ultra Rare Carollers:
These designs mark the final chapter of the Caroller Collection. Created between 2003 and 2005, they were produced for only a brief window of time—and much of that period overlapped with the gradual shutdown of the Doll Shop. As a result, their numbers are especially limited. Today, these late-era Carollers stand as rare, meaningful pieces from the closing years of Bob and Jan’s remarkable 54-year legacy.
The Ultra Rare Carollers: The Cobblestone Kids
The only sub collection within the official Caroller Collection as outlined by Jan Simpich in her little red book, is the Cobblestone Kids also refered to as the Puppies for Sale Collection. Where as many of the ultra rare designs above (the Organ Grinder, Concertina Man and McNair and Friend) were Robert Simpich’s farewell designs to the Caroller Collection, the Cobblestone Kids were Jan Simpich’s. Showcasing you love of young life, the Cobblestone Kids are out on a brisk snowy Christmas Eve along with the other Carollers, but the cobblestone kids are looking to spread Christmas Cheer all year long by selling a new litter of puppies!
Get in touch with Toby Simpich
Whether you trying to choose which piece would be best to start with or you’re trying to find that final piece to complete your collection reach out using this form! This Collection can be one of the hardest to complete, and I would love to make that process easier for you!