Fall Excursion

Here you see two board members going to ”lofty” extremes to garner that rare treasure that will bring joy to the bidder, and funding for Wisconsin Historical Society.

It’s not too late!! Take that tax write-off you’ve been yearning for, and donate your “junque” to the auction! You story will be told if there’s a narrative that accompanies the items donated…keep the history circulating and donate today! Call Riene Wells: 262-363-4700.

On October 24th Volunteers from the FRIENDS offered a free program at the Headquarters building of the Wisconsin Historical Society in Madison.  Two members of the FRIENDS Board of Trustees, Beverly Wassam and Mark Mittag, put together this light hearted and high spirited romp into the past.

Mark, a 35 year member of The Wheelmen (a national organization dedicated to preserving these bikes and their history), introduced people to his “Penny Farthing” which he explains is a bicycle ~ a high wheeled bicycle.   Prior to the turn of the last century, they were popular with well to do people, who often times formed clubs and  sponsored Penny Farthing races.

He answered questions like: “how did one get on such a bike?”, “What’s the maximum wheel size?”, “What were the tires made of?”,  “How much did they cost?” and “Were they dangerous to ride?”  and lots more!   The audience could slso examine these vintage bikes.

“Feminine Frocks” was the part of the program presented by Bev Wassam, who is a historic costumer and seamstress, including 15 years as costume designer for Old World Wisconsin, and runs her seamstress business, “Another Time,” in Delavan, WI.

While the propriety of women engaging in sports was often questionable, history notes women  enjoyed croquet, swimming,  horseback riding (side saddle, of course) mountain climbing, and car riding.  Wassam showed off fashions for women’s sporting events.

This is your chance to donate a tax-deductable vintage item (50-99 years old) or an antique (100 years old or older) to the “Wisconsin – Our Flag’s 30th Star” Antique & Vintage Auction. The proceeds go to the work of the Wisconsin Historical Society to perserve our history. FRIENDS thanks the Wisconsin Antique Dealers Association, our Founding Sponsors, who provided a grant through their antique show admissions.

For show information go to: www.wisconsinantiquedealers.com/shows.html

Marzion Homes & Realty in Eagle, Wisconsin has generously donated a prime storefront location for storage. And, R. Jerome Boge, licensed auctioneer, has graciously volunteered his services. (CAI, WI Lic. No. 1158-052)

Please contact us if you have items to contribute.

friendsofwhs@earthlink.net

This 3 day 2 night coach trip was another spectacular “Time And Place” adventures sponsored by the FRIENDS. These Lincoln fans visited many significant historic locations, including behind the scenes offerings that the public rarely witnesses. Lunch at the Lincoln Library and meeting “Lincoln himself,” were some of the memorable highlights.

Not only was this an eye-opener and an experience to remember, it was lots of fun!

Watch for the pictures coming up soon!