When John Wright created his first doll in November 1976, he knew that it would be the beginning of an exciting life-long journey. That journey now comes to a close.
November 2026 marks the 50th Anniversary of the R. John Wright Doll Company. We invite you, to join us in Bennington, Vermont, November 5–7, 2026, as we celebrate this remarkable milestone—and honor the life and legacy of R. John Wright—at what will be our final convention. A chance to say goodbye—but never to forget.
We have arranged accommodations at the Hampton Inn in Bennington at $169+tax per night. To reserve your room, please call 802-440-9864 and reference the R. John Wright Convention.
Transportation has been arranged for our weekend slate of events around Bennington.
The weekend will feature special meal events with programs and door prizes, hands on RJW workshops, local tours, and many opportunities to connect and reminisce. Please refer to the Event Descriptions (below) for full details of all that awaits you.
Attendance is limited, and priority will be given to the first 50 registrants in honor of our 50-year legacy. We encourage you not to delay in securing your place.
https://www.rjohnwright.com/products/r-john-wright-2026-convention
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We sincerely hope you will join us for this meaningful and memorable occasion.
Amy Cannistraci
Convention Treasurer/Sales
802-447-7072
E V E N T D E S C R I P T I O N S
Welcome Cocktail Evening (Included with registration)
Our journey down memory lane begins Thursday evening in Bennington, VT. Join us for an intimate gathering with libations and light fare. Come prepared with memories and stories, as we share the moments that have brought us together over the years.
A Day at R. John Wright Dolls Inc. (Included with registration)
Friday welcomes you to a fun filled day at the RJW facility located at 2402 West Road in Bennington. Enjoy a variety of complimentary workshops where you’ll discover —“How did we do that?” A casual Luncheon buffet will be available on site in the “RJW Café”. Enjoy browsing our expanded sales room, featuring archive dolls and animals, as well as general store accessories and RJW crafting materials.
The First Is Last – Gail Wilson workshop Fee: $200 (pre-registration required – limit 20) One of the highlights on Friday, at the RJW facility, will be Gail Wilson joining us again for one of her fabulous tutorials. In this extended workshop you will have the experience of reliving Gail’s first foray into doll making. Gail says, “The Tiny Doll we will put together in this workshop brings together memories of the earliest dolls that actually sparked John’s and my 50 year friendship”
Face It! – You too can paint on felt! Fee: $185 (pre-registration required – limit 15) Susan Wright will be conducting a Master Class in painting a molded felt face, which will take place at the R. John Wright studio on Friday. Each participant will receive a number of pre molded felt faces for practice, before completing a finished molded head. All paints and brushes are provided. Duration of class 3 hours.
Do You Remember – Dinner Event (Included with registration)
Friday evening brings a lively and memorable gathering at the Mount Anthony Country Club. Begin with a host bar, followed by a sumptuous dinner. Then, prepare for a rollicking trivia experience led by Jim Thatch of Bennington Theater—custom-designed to test your RJW knowledge. Study up for your chance to win exciting prizes!
Bennington Area Tours (Included with registration)
Saturday morning offers curated visits to notable local attractions. Planned destinations include the Bennington Museum, Jackie Marro’s Dollhouse Museum plus Vermont's historic shrine The Old First Church location of John's memorial service.
A Man With a Twinkle – Luncheon Event (Included with registration)
Celebrate John’s mischievous wit and storytelling spirit during a Saturday luncheon at the Mount Anthony Country Club. Enjoy some of John’s favorite stories, lighthearted games, and the joy of shared laughter. In true RJW tradition, keep an eye out for exciting door prizes.
Home Is Where the Heart Is – Tea (Included with registration)
Spend a lovely Saturday afternoon at tea in the historic General David Robinson House, home of John & Susan Wright, in Old Bennington, VT. Guests are encouraged to dress in late eighteenth-century fashion in honor of the home’s heritage. Susan Wright will lead a tour highlighting the house’s most significant historic features.
To R. John Wright, With Love – Final Banquet (Included with registration)
As our whirlwind weekend draws to a close, we gather one final time—exhausted, but jubilant—for a heartfelt farewell. The evening begins with a host bar, followed by a three-course, seasonally curated banquet prepared by the Mount Anthony chef.
After dessert, enjoy a slide show of the John Wright story, narrated by Susan Wright, followed by the presentation of the exclusive souvenir doll. We’ll conclude the evening gathered by the fireplace, raising a glass in celebration and farewell to R. John Wright.
