We often hear the word “dandy” applied to wealthy, fastidiously dressed, 19th-century gentlemen unduly devoted to themselves, their image, and style, yet it seems an antique, ill-fitting designator to apply to today’s fashion trendsetters in a world where runway looks and streetwear run the gamut and individuality is stressed. Yet, interestingly, being a “Beau Brummell,” […]
Category Archives: Publishers Corner
03
Nov
Nov
If you are one of those people who feel ‘any surface will do,’ then it might be hard to understand the writing desk culture, and the personal connection many people have about the space and surface on which they work, although I dare say that working from home this past year during COVID may have […]
17
Sep
Sep
The legend of Johnny Appleseed as an American pioneer nurseryman who introduced apple trees to the Midwest and beyond is a uniquely American story that to this day continues to be shared with school-age children, who take away lessons of a simple life and living close to nature, and a greater appreciation for the important […]
31
Aug
Aug
In John F. Kennedy’s Inaugural Address on January 20, 1961, the President called on all Americans to commit themselves to service and sacrifice: “And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country.” Kennedy believed that democracy thrives only when citizens contribute […]
03
Aug
Aug
Like the Internet in the second half of the 20th century, trains were the major disrupter of the 19th century. They changed the way we brought our goods to market, where we lived, and how we traveled. They raised towns around a few miles of track, provided employment, and created wealth. They brought us closer […]
06
Jul
Jul
For this month’s theme, “History Contained,” we selected feature subjects that reflect a less literal, more ‘out-of-the-box’ interpretation of the topic beyond the obvious examples of antique and vintage general store tins, antique packing crates, apothecary bottles, candy jars, crocks, and spice containers. Secret compartments for containing private papers and concealing precious belongings were a […]
10
Jun
Jun
Talk about boardwalks and almost everyone has a favorite and memories to share. Growing up in New York City and on Long Island, boardwalks were part of my everyday life at the beach. My connection to boardwalks, however, goes back generations. Both my great-grandmother in 1911 for her second marriage, and my grandparents in 1924, […]
09
May
May
It was a big country but prior to the 20th century, few knew from first-hand experience how big or what was out there. Traveling west and into the interior over land was a pioneer’s journey for those seeking jobs and an opportunity to start a new life, not a tourist experience for idle […]
22
Mar
Mar
At the heart of the items that we collect and admire are the stories behind their creation, craft, and use. While an object might bear the mark or label of a company or business, the hands that produced the object are typically invisible and unknown, especially when it comes to handmade items such as tools, […]
19
Feb
Feb
The ways we listen to music are always changing, but the people who feel the need to amass as much of it as possible never go away. Yet, with so many of these forms now online and digital-based, what’s physically left to collect? Nothing has changed more in the last century than recorded sound and […]