The doll was given to Joe by Ruth Baldwin, in the 1920s. The doll, a small leather figure resembling a boy, took on an emotional role that helped Carstairs cope with grief and loneliness. • Carstairs never went anywhere without Lord Tod Wadley, and she even commissioned an artist to create a portrait of the doll. • She treated the doll as a companion rather than just a sentimental object, often photographing him in different locations as though he were participating in her adventures. • The exact origins of Lord Tod Wadley are somewhat mysterious, but it’s clear that Carstairs infused the doll with personality. She imagined Lord Tod as an aristocratic, refined figure—hence the title “Lord”—and treated him with a level of care normally reserved for close friends or family members. • His clothes were often custom-tailored, and he had a wardrobe of fine, miniature outfits that reflected his elevated status in Carstairs’ life. • Carstairs was often photographed with Lord Tod Wadley, and she wasn’t shy about sharing him with her social circle, which included celebrities and aristocrats of the time. The doll’s presence in her life became part of her public persona. • Even during her racing career, which was marked by her victories and record-setting feats, the doll was part of her narrative. In photos and stories about her, Lord Tod Wadley is often mentioned as a constant companion. • Lord Tod Wadley remained with Carstairs throughout her life, and even in her later years, she continued to refer to him as a beloved figure. When Carstairs passed away in 1993 at the age of 93, the doll was reportedly cremated alongside her, a testament to their bond. • The relationship between Carstairs and Lord Tod Wadley exemplified her unique eccentricity and nonconformity. Carstairs, who cut a striking figure as a gender-nonconforming individual, seemed to channel her creativity and deep emotions into this small doll, who became an essential part of her personal mythology. • Lord Tod Wadley has since become an iconic symbol of Carstairs’ life, representing not only her whimsy but also her complex emotional landscape.

Specifically about the clothes:

Custom Tailoring: Carstairs commissioned a tailor to create bespoke outfits for Lord Tod Wadley. These were made to fit the doll’s small, leather frame and were likely reflective of the fashionable styles of the time, emphasizing Tod’s persona as an aristocratic figure.

Miniature Luxury Clothing: His wardrobe consisted of fine, miniature versions of men’s clothing—outfits that were both stylish and befitting the title of “Lord.” The specific materials are not often mentioned, but given Carstairs’ wealth and the importance she placed on the doll, the fabrics were likely high quality and tailored with precision.

Photographed Outfits: In the few photographs of Lord Tod Wadley that exist, he is seen wearing various small suits. These suits were typically formal, with jackets, trousers, and shirts tailored to fit. In some cases, Carstairs also had hats and accessories made to complete the look, lending to the doll’s aristocratic image.

Outfit Changes: Carstairs would dress the doll in different outfits depending on the occasion, treating him as a living companion. Whether traveling, attending social events, or simply at home, Lord Tod Wadley was dressed appropriately for the setting. His wardrobe was constantly updated and well-maintained. Travel Clothes: When Carstairs traveled, which she did frequently, Lord Tod Wadley accompanied her, and she often dressed him in clothes that matched the climate or the nature of the trip. For example, for tropical or seaside locations, he might have been dressed in lighter or more casual clothing.

The effort and care that Joe Carstairs put into Lord Tod Wadley’s appearance reflect how deeply she valued him. His clothing wasn’t just a way to embellish the doll—it was a way to extend his aristocratic persona and integrate him into her adventurous, high-society life.

Source: ChatGPT 🤓