Ruthie Smithens, 1933

Ruthie is a young girl living in Cincinati during the Great Depression. She was the fifth and last best friend doll in the Historical Characters line, introduced by American Girl in 2008. She is the best friend of Kit Kittredge.

Ruthie is from a wealthier family than Kit, and isn’t as personally affected by the Depression. She is a bright and cheerful girl, with an idealistic worldview and optimistic outlook. Ruthie loves fairytales and is fascinated with the Kittredge household, with all the interesting new boarders. Ruthie is a good and loyal friend, and is always there to support and help the people she loves.

Both she and Kit were retired in 2008 and unlike her best friend, Ruthie was not revived for the Beforever line.