Author Archives: csb490

Helen King (Mrs. Harry King) Rug The craftsmanship of this hand-hooked rug is remarkable, and recognizing its past gives it an even greater panache. Donated by Amy Armstrong of the Historic Arkansas Museum, this 3’ x 6’ wool rug is called the “Old Museum Design, Cambridge” and was designed by Mrs. Harry King. Mrs. King … Continue reading »

Fly Fishing Basket We have had an exciting week at Old Independence Regional Museum. Mr. John Maddy has entrusted OIRM with his grandfather’s – and father’s – fly fishing gear. A few of the items in particular are more than unique, they are originals. Mr. Maddy’s grandfather, Jack (John) Maddy, created three of these baskets … Continue reading »

Native American Pottery Books Roy Hathcock was renowned as an expert on prehistoric Indian art. We were gifted two of his large, coffee table books by Mr. Malcolm Ford. Mr. Ford’s pottery was actually the subject of several of the photos in these books. The first book, Ancient Indian Pottery of the Mississippi River Valley, … Continue reading »

Bisque Doll Like many other items engineered in Germany, this tiny 6” bisque doll is amazing in its craftsmanship. The tiny eyes flutter open and closed as the doll is raised to gaze admiringly at her, then gently laid to rest in a cozy, doll-sized cradle. Bisque dolls – and anything labeled “bisque” – denotes … Continue reading »

The Game of Cootie Just in time for Christmas, this original Cootie game box dates from 1949, the year Cootie was first mass produced in plastic. William Schaper, a postman from Robbinsdale, Minnesota, invented a wooden fishing lure he sold in his small shop. He recognized the lure could be transformed into a game, and … Continue reading »