The History of Department 56: From Gift Wholesaler to Collectible Empire
The Humble Beginnings
In the late 1970s, a small company that would eventually become the heart of every serious Christmas village collector's dream began its journey. Department 56 started as a side project of Bachman's, a family-owned retail florist in Minneapolis. The strategic idea to branch out into the giftware industry led to the inception of the company's initial focus on kit houses for craft projects.
However, the real magic started to sparkle when the vision expanded beyond crafting supplies. Department 56, named as a nod to the internal department numbers used in Bachman's invoices, launched its first collection, the Original Snow Village, in 1976. The simple ceramic houses, dusted with artificial snow, soon became household treasures as collectors aspired to create their own idyllic miniature towns.
Rise to Collectible Fame
As the love for these enchanting villages grew, Department 56's creative endeavors flourished. From the wintry charm of the Christmas In The City collection to the historic elegance of the Dickens Village, each release beckoned collectors to partake in their own unique celebrations of Christmas and fantasy.
The company officially hit its stride in the early '80s with the release of the Heritage Village Collection, of which the Dickens Village was a part. Capturing the essence of Victorian England, these pieces evoked a sense of nostalgia and charm, appealing directly to the collector's heart.
Notable Collectible Pieces
Among the myriad of enchanting creations, certain pieces have become renowned for their artistry and collectible value. Consider the beloved "Ye Olde Goat Pub" (SKU: 6011392), introduced in 2023, with its current value hovering at $164.99. It's a perfect representation of the craftsmanship involved in the Dickens Village series.
The "Red Brick Fire Station" (SKU: 5655360), part of the Christmas In The City collection, offers another nostalgic nod with its price consistent at $119.95. Though retired in 1995, this piece remains a highly prized addition for collectors yearning to complete their cityscapes.
The New Age of Department 56
Continuing to expand, Department 56 has ventured into diverse themes, including pop culture references and more playful elements. For instance, the Harry Potter Village, introduced in recent years, opens a doorway to a world where magic is the central theme, reflected in pieces such as "The Boathouse" (SKU: 6007754), priced between $99.00 and $193.91.
The North Pole Series, with pieces like "Santa's Boot Shop" (SKU: 6013444), which retired swiftly in the year 2025, continues to charm collectors with its midpoint value set at $180.00.
The Art of Retiring Pieces
One of the strategic moves Department 56 employs to maintain enthusiasm among collectors is the periodic retiring of pieces. With 8,256 total items cataloged, 6,980 are currently listed as retired. Such retirements transform these pieces into irresistible hidden gems, enticing collectors to complete their treasured collections. For example, the "Santa Comes To Town" (SKU: 6013443) from the Original Snow Village collection, retired in 2025, currently holds a midpoint value of $72.00, enticing collectors with its brief production run.
The Collectible Legacy
The enduring appeal of Department 56's villages lies not only in their intricate artistry but also in the nostalgia they evoke. As each piece graces a collector's display, it adds a chapter to a story filled with tradition, imagination, and community. Enthusiasts eagerly anticipate each release, whether it's a cozy tavern from a Dickens novel or a bustling city street echoing seasonal cheer.
Today's collectors, drawn to the charm and history embedded in each piece, find joy in the hunt for rare and retired treasures. As new generations discover these enchanting villages, they continue to echo a tradition treasured worldwide.
Looking Forward
The future of Department 56 promises innovation while honoring its rich history. With new introductions like "The Griffith Tower" (SKU: 6013400) from the Christmas In The City collection, valued between $193.38 and $359.13, collectors can expect fresh wonder bundled in nostalgic packaging.
As we look ahead, the legacy of Department 56—once a humble gift wholesaler, now a collectible empire—is assured. With each new season, collectors far and wide will eagerly unbox their villages of whimsy, breathing life into cherished traditions that time, nor change, can dim.