HAPPENINGS…..CHICAGO HISTORY MUSEUM/COSTUME COUNCIL…THREADS OF A NATION: PRESERVING PRESIDENTIAL CLOTHING

October 4, 2026October 9, 2026nenasnotesLeave a comment

I’m very excited to share the information about the upcoming Chicago History Museum exhibition sponsored by the Costume Council. I have been a member for decades and have been involved with many of the exhibitions. The Costume Collection, we support, is one of the largest in the world and houses everything from French Haute Couture to American and European ready to wear to Chicago Sports memorabilia to Sally Rand’s fans to rare historical US president’s garments and even a garment attributed to Mary Todd Lincoln!

At the opening party, on October 22nd from 6 to 9 at the Museum, (open to the public on October 24th), you will be treated to a presentation by historian, Timothy Long, whose knowledge of clothing is unsurpassed! This is one way we celebrate our Nation’s 250 Anniversary with what the Costume Council does best…show history through the garments that were worn through the decades and, therefore, made history!

From the Museum….

“The Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum invites you to the opening night celebration of Threads of a Nation: Preserving Presidential Clothing, an exhibition that brings together remarkable garments worn by George Washington, John Adams, and Abraham Lincoln, as well as personal effects and relevant historical documents. Tickets→

As the nation observes its 250th anniversary this year, we examine US history through the clothes of those who helped shape it and discover how fashion, politics, and personal identity became woven into the story of a new nation.

The evening begins with a presentation by fashion historian and curator Timothy Long, who will explore one of the Museum’s most treasured objects. For over a century, the Chicago History Museum has held a suit of black silk velvet worn by George Washington. Drawing on years of his research in the leading repositories of the nation’s history, this evening reassembles a wardrobe long scattered—and asks what it reveals about the nation’s first president.

Following the presentation, enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres while exploring Threads of a Nation at your own pace. Museum staff will be on hand throughout the exhibition to answer questions and share additional insight on the objects on display. Guests also have the opportunity to participate in an exciting selection of auction offerings throughout the evening.

About the Presenter

Timothy Long is a fashion historian and curator who has spent his career reading history through what people wore. A former curator at the Chicago History Museum and the Museum of London, he has created more than twenty exhibitions on both sides of the Atlantic, including projects for the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York and the San Diego History Center, and has written on dress and the decorative arts, including for V&A Publishing and the British Museum Technical Research Bulletin.

For many years he has pursued an investigation into the surviving clothing of George Washington, following it across collections in the United States and Britain. He recently held a fellowship at the George Washington Presidential Library at Mount Vernon and now holds one at Sulgrave Manor, Washington’s ancestral home in the United Kingdom.”

Schedule

5:30 p.m. – Pre-Event VIP Champagne Reception and meet and greet with Timothy Long
6:00 p.m. – Doors open, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres served, silent auction bidding begins
6:30 p.m. – Presentation by Timothy Long
7:00 p.m. – Reception and self-guided exhibition viewing
8:15 p.m. – Bidding for silent auction concludes
8:30 p.m. – Silent auction winners announced
9:00 p.m. – Event concludes

Co-Chairs: Anika Allen and Katie Beard

Event Committee: Moni Adorjan, Athena Golianis, Courtney Hopkins, Karen Peters, Frank Rubel, Carol Seeling, and Karen Zupko

Sponsors of Style

George Washington Sponsor

Liz Stiffel

Abraham Lincoln Sponsors

D. Elizabeth Price
The Shearson Family
VLS Private Foundation
Richard and Diane Weinberg

John Adams Benefactors

Pamella and Alfredo Capitanini
Karen Peters and Charles Frank
Heritage Auctions
Alicia and David Schafer
Karen Zupko and Mike McCahon
Carlette McMullan
Lyssa Mashek Piette

Pattern Friends

David Hiller and Darcy Evon
Courtney and Tobin Hopkins
Neiman Marcus
Rhonda Marcucci
Frank J. Rubel III

Threads Patrons

Anika Allen and Baird Capital
Constance K. Barkley
Katie Beard
Kathleen M. Boege
Jonathon and Jacqueline Cwiok
Bon French
Athena Golianis
Vicki Hood
Katherine Klehr
Lissette Cortes Lade and David Lade
Betty Latson
Lizzy Lopez
Diane Lovejoy
Erica C. Meyer
Randolph Street Market
Cheryl Tama Oblander and Scott Oblander

In-Kind Sponsors

Connie Barkley Elysium MedSpa Kissyboo

Knee Deep Vintage Lady Bug Vintage Rhonda Marcucci

MS Collections Space 519 Viva La Med Spa

Conservation of the presidential costumes and objects is being supported in part by a federal Save America’s Treasures grant administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

BOOKS…BOOKS….BOOKS DRESSED IN HISTORY A COSTUME COLlECTION RETROSPECTIVE

December 4, 2024nenasnotes4 Comments

Here is the perfect addition to your fashion library as well as an amazing gift!

I don’t know why books that accompany exhibitions are called catalogues when they give us wonderful insights into our history….this book does that to perfection! It is the companion of the current (through July 27, 2025) exhibition at the Chicago History Museum. The exhibition features 70 pieces from the huge world class costume collection (over 50,000 items!) at CHM. Just a very small sample chosen by 4 past curators of the collection. It features a short essay by each of the curators.

The cover gives you a preview of what is housed in our extraordinary collection….from Abe Lincoln’s top hat to one of only three Paul Poiret Sorbet garments in the world (too fragile to be shown but the illustration is featured see below illustration) to a Judith Leiber minaudière featuring the iconic Marshall Field’s clock to Sally Rand’s fans! The reason for the book and exhibition is to celebrate the 50 years of the Costume Council!

Christian Dior gown circa 1949 worn by
Ms. Jeanne B. Heinzelman, née Jeanne Brucker to the 1949 Passavant Cotillion

*Fans, c. 1966. Ostrich feathers, plastic, wood. Maybelle Shearer, Chicago. Gift of Miss Sally Rand. 1966.398a-b. CHM, ICHi-186021*

About the Costume Council…..”Founded by Mrs. Philip K. Wrigley in April 1974, the purpose of the Costume Council is to support the Chicago History Museum as a leader in the documentation and interpretation of the history and the art of fashion. Through the Costume Council’s efforts, the Museum has been able to maintain and grow a thriving collection. The support the Council provides helps the Chicago History Museum care for, conserve, interpret, and display items in the costume collection to further our understanding of history through clothing. The Council also generously supports the Museum’s costume-based exhibitions and is proud to present what has grown to be one of the world’s premier collections, with pieces dating from the eighteenth century to present.”

Why you might ask is this personally meaningful to me, here is why….I’ve been involved (on and off) with the Costume Council for all of those 50 years serving in many roles from Acquisition Chair, to producing the hugely successful Donors Balls, to Historian and as a two term President of the group. But my involvement goes back even further….actually to before I was born, my mother’s first job when she came to Chicago was at the CHM where she worked with its first curator, Phyllis Healy. And guess what I worked with Mrs. Healy while I was in high school, my assignment, categorizing the glove collection!

My quote in the catalogue…

“Having been involved in most of the 50 year history of the Costume Council of CHM and having served as a two term president, I’ve seen many changes, many blockbuster exhibitions and various successful events…what remains is the deep rooted dedication of a group of enthusiastic members whose responsibility is to support the world class costume collection by fund raising and to preserve the collection’s visibility. I am delighted to say this hasn’t wavered but has become stronger through the years. Bravo Costume Council….bravo!”

As you know, I host the monthly nenasnotes The Fashion Book Club and have had three of the participating former curators talk about their books (not CHM publications)…and I had the pleasure to work with each of them while they were at CHM….Elizabeth Jachimowicz, Timothy Long and Petra Slinkard. I profiled their books on this blog! I also worked with Virginia Heaven both at CHM and as colleagues at Columbia College Chicago.

I was recently in conversation with Jessica Pushor, Collection Manager, and one of the editors of the catalogue, for one of our Book Club monthly meetings. Her extensive knowledge of fashion history and of this one of a kind collections is extraordinary. She is always very gracious in answering my research questions and hosting visiting designers and other notable fashion personalities.

Jessica Pushor photo courtesy Chicago History Museum

I end by saying get the book and get to the Chicago History Museum to see the exhibition….cheers to the next 50 years!

The Dressed in History catalogue is now available to purchase, both in person at the Museum Store and online at this link: https://shop.chicagohistory.org/products/dressed-in-history

Links I think you will enjoy….

•Dressed in History website: https://www.chicagohistory.org/exhibition/dressed-in-history-a-costume-collection-retrospective/

•Past CHM costume exhibit catalogues online for free: https://www.chicagohistory.org/costume-exhibition-catalogues/

•View images of costume objects, photographs, and ephemera: https://images.chicagohistory.org/costume-and-textiles-collection/

•Research center information on the fashion archive at CHM: https://libguides.chicagohistory.org/costume

HAPPENINGS: THE ANATOMY OF AN AUCTION PART 3…CENTER STAGE: THE LAURA PELS COLLECTIONS ACT III, LUXURY HANDBAGS AND COUTURE

May 30, 2024May 30, 2024nenasnotesLeave a comment

I’m beyond thrilled to have been given the opportunity to share yet another very exciting upcoming Freeman’s|Hindman auction with all of you. It is an exclusive especially for nenasnotes! This amazing philanthropist’s story is an extraordinary one and is seen through her love of art, theater and her innate sense of style. I am totally intrigued with her and her story…I know you will be as well.

Read more about this unique personality I’d like to direct you to her New York Times Obituary

https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.nytimes.com/2023/05/05/theater/laura-pels-dead.html&sa=U&sqi=2&ved=2ahUKEwj57u69uraGAxVdrokEHdgbD8EQFnoECBgQAQ&usg=AOvVaw1REZeUGjR0lgjE3kgD2Q3c

About Laura Pels…

Laura Pels Bio

“Property from the Collection of Laura Pels, River House, New York

Laura Pels was a philanthropist and devoted supporter of the dramatic arts, founding the Laura Pels International Foundation for Theater, an organization that underwrote productions for a myriad of nonprofit theater groups as well as playwrights such as Harold Pinter and Arthur Miller, amongst many others.

Born in Saint-Vivien-de-Monségur, a village near Bordeaux, France, in 1931, Josette Jeanne Berrnard studied mime and acting in Paris as a young woman. In her twenties, she decided to change her name to Laura and by the age of 25 had moved to London to study English. Following her first marriage to Adolphe Meeus, she made the transatlantic move to New York which would remain her home until her passing last year.

She married communications executive, Mr. Pels, in 1965 who invested heavily in cellular communications during the 1980s. Following a business deal in 1989, where McCaw cellular bought a controlling interest in Pels’ firm, Ms. Pels and her husband made a significant donation to support the founding of the National Actors Theater by actor Tony Randall. Its mission was to present affordable shows by playwrights such as Ibsen, Chekov and Miller. Ms. Pels became the leader of the foundation upon her divorce in 1993 and funded projects at esteemed theaters such as the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Washington, and provided grants to talented students at the Julliard School and the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University.

Ms. Pels retained strong ties to France throughout her life: she rented an apartment in Paris and was involved with Le Théâtre de L’Atelier in Montmatre. Her peerless taste is reflected in this beautiful collection of jewelry which includes works by renowned and timeless French makers such as Cartier and Boucheron, alongside more avant-garde pieces including works designed by artist Jean Cocteau. Couture, fine and decorative arts from the River House apartment of Ms. Pels will be offered in a sequence of sales at Freeman’s I Hindman in New York and online this Spring.”

About the auction…

“Center Stage: The Laua Pels Collections | Act III | Luxury Handbags and Couture – includes a significant collection of Pierre Cardin Haute Couture, Geoffrey Beene and Chanel ready-to-wear. In addition to over 40 Chanel handbags and a large collection of Hermès scarves. Ms. Pels love and deep appreciation for French culture is evident in her couture collection – many of her pieces were purchased in Paris and New York directly from the designers and custom tailored for her, she meticulously selected pieces that would complement her jewelry collection (sold by Freeman’s | Hindman earlier this month in our Important Jewelry Sale) and her art collection. Ms. Pels was a close friend of famed artist Françoise Gilot – her River House home was filled with works by the artist, one can easily see that Ms. Pels took inspiration from the work of Gilot when it came to her own sense of style – many of the colors that Gilot favored are predominant in Ms. Pels wardrobe, she also wore pieces from Gilot’s daughter Paloma Picasso, a selection of those pieces are included in the sale. Ms. Pels also admired the work of J. Mendel the sale includes many exquisite furs by the famed furrier, many were custom created for Ms. Pels. It is rare to see a collection as complete as this one come to the market, from day one I realized how special this couture collection was an am thrilled to be bringing it to the auction block through Freeman’s | Hindman in June.” Quote from Tanner Branson, Head of Sale, Luxury Handbags & Couture. Freeman’s | Hindman

FROM THE COLLECTION OF 202 Garment lots, 44 Chanel handbag lots, 299 lots total.

Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche quilted cape and
Pierre Cardin Haute Couture gown

**TANNER BRANSON PREPPING VYES SAINT LAURENT CAPE**

**Geoffrey Beene gown, Rafael Sanchez for Geoffrey Beene red lacquered handbag and Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche cape**

**Some of the Collection of Chanel bags**

FROM THE PRESS RELEASE

“The couture collection of Laura Pels features runway pieces from Karl Lagerfeld’s collections for Chanel, Pierre Cardin Haute Couture from the 1980-90s, and an important collection of Geoffrey Beene. Many of the pieces were custom-made for Ms. Pels’ specifications. The collection also features forty plus Chanel handbags. Much like the art and jewelry collections of Ms. Pels, her couture reflects her deep appreciation for French culture.”

SALE INFORMATION

Center Stage: The Laua Pels Collections | Act lll: Luxury Handbags and Couture

Sale Date: June 25^th

Sale Publication Date: June 11^th

Preview Dates: June 20^th, 21^st and June 24^th – by appointment only, please contacttannerbranson@hindmanauctions.com to schedule an appointment.

For more information go to the link below.

https://hindmanauctions.com/auctions/2091-Center-Stage-Luxury-Handbags-and-Couture-from-The-Laura-Pels-Collection

HAPPENINGS….THE ANATOMY OF AN AUCTION

September 22, 2023September 23, 2023nenasnotes2 Comments

**Givenchy Nouvelle Boutique Ensemble, 1970s , LOT 240**
**Sybil Connolly Black Dress, 1970s, Property from the Collection of Kay Krehbiel , LOT 113**
**Carolina Herrera Jacket Worn by Nena Ivon, c. 2007, LOT 91**

I am having a fascinating adventure, I have a garment in the upcoming Hindman Fall Fashion auction on October 3rd! It’s my first auction…I’ve sold garments in the past with local resale stores and most of my special pieces are either in the Costume Collection of the Chicago History Museum or in the Fashion Study Collection at Columbia College Chicago. I asked Tanner Branson, the newly appointed Specialist, Head of Sale, Luxury Handbags & Couture and this is his first auction… (more on him later in this post) to look at the piece I thought would be a good fit to see if there was any interest in putting it in the sale. I got an immediate yes!

From that moment on learned the procedures of an auction….terms of the sale, contracts to be read and signed, confirmations sent via email. I also reviewed the description of the garment along with my brief bio…all that was left was to see the online catalog which went “live” this week….now on to the bidding…fingers crossed!

Here is the Carolina Herrera garment I wore for Mrs. Herrera’s appearance at Saks Fifth Avenue Chicago in 2007. It is quite the stunner and I only wore it that one time. Why in the world, you might ask, did I make the decision to send my fabulous piece to auction, quite simple, I no longer lead the lifestyle of going to charity luncheons, glamorous cocktail events, opening nights…well you get the picture! Having it hang in my closet when someone else can enjoy it…why not. I’ll have to do a good rummage to see what else might be of interest!

Here I am with Mrs. Herrera when she was being honored by the Fashion Group International, Chicago, many years ago. Love her, I always found working with her to be a dream. Photo from my collection.

Here is the link and a description of the auction…

https://hindmanauctions.com/auctions/1218-Fall-Fashion-Accessories

“Hindman’s Fall Fashion auction on October 3rd features over 250 lots of high fashion and luxury handbags from leading houses including Hermès, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton amongst others. Headlining the auction are three exceptional Hermès handbags, a Birkin 30 in ostrich, a Birkin 35 in Clemence calfskin, and a Kelly 28. The auction has a powerful collection of Hermès including a Snakes & Ladders game from 2013. Also featuring property from the personal wardrobe of Kay Krehbiel, the collection contains accessories by Judith Leiber and Hermès and a rare gown designed by Irish fashion designer Sybil Connolly. In addition, the auction also features examples of Haute Couture garments by Christian Dior, Chanel, and Givenchy dating from the 1950-1980s.”

Pucci garments in the auction.
. I had the privilege of working with Emilio Pucci on several occasions a unique creator and a true joy to work with!

Givenchy Ensemble, 1975, LOT 238
and yes, I worked with M. Givenchy!

Previews are by appointment only on September 28th and 29th and October 2nd. The sale is October 3rd….Contact: Tannerbranson@hindmanauctions.com

A nenasnote I’ve known the founder, Leslie Hindman, for decades and could not be happier for her successes over the years…the company has grown into a Internationally respected auction house….here are further details…

“Hindman is a leading fine art auction house connecting cities nationwide to the global art market. With offices and salerooms throughout the country, Hindman conducts over 140 auctions annually in all major fine art and luxury collecting categories, while offering buyers and sellers an exceptional experience across multiple selling channels and price points.

Hindman’s team of experts is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of ethics and integrity in the industry. Driven by this client-first approach, Hindman provides collectors, fiduciaries, and institutions with a comprehensive suite of services including auctions, appraisals, private sales, and art advisory.

Hindman was formed through the merger of two premier auction houses, Leslie Hindman Auctioneers (est. 1982) and Cowan’s Auctions (est. 1995). For over 40 years Hindman has built a reputation as a market leader by providing outstanding service and achieving record results. Hindman is headquartered in Chicago with 15 additional locations serving clients coast to coast.”

Now a bit about Tanner….I first met him as a student (one of mine!) when he attended Columbia College Chicago and during his time working in their Fashion Study Collection. We have become friends over the years. The history and preservation of clothing is, in my opinion, part of his DNA! I look forward to seeing what wonderful treasures he will find to bring to all of through Hindman!

Tanner Branson
Specialist , Head of Sale, Luxury Handbags & Couture

From Tanner’s promotion announcement….

“As the Head of Sale of the Luxury Handbag & Accessories Department at Hindman, he will oversee the department’s four-yearly auctions, liaise with clients nationwide in evaluating their couture, and assist with appraisals. He will support Hindman Chicago’s headquarters and their well-established regional offices around the country to further develop the firm’s commitment to luxury goods.

His journey in the luxury market has taken him to many places. he brings with him a decade of experience working with iconic brands such as The Row and Brunello Cuccinelli for Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue. In curating his client’s personal and public wardrobes, he was given the opportunity to work with a rich collection of garments and expand his professional acumen. These experiences have honed his ability to understand the finer nuances of luxury and cater to the preferences of clients who appreciate the art of fashion.

Additionally, he am proud to be affiliated with various auxiliary boards, including the Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum. His academic background, which includes a bachelor’s degree in Fashion Business from Columbia College Chicago (with a personal focus on fashion and textile history), fuels his passion for preserving the stories held within each garment and accessory.

In keeping with Hindman’s commitment to exceptional service, he is excited to connect with clients across the country.”

As usual this is not a sponsored post…I don’t have sponsors…if interested in sponsorships contact me.

All photos, unless otherwise noted, courtesy of Hindman.

HAPPY APRIL…

April 1, 2023April 1, 2023nenasnotesLeave a comment

It’s April! Just a little vignette Chez Moi…featuring a vintage glass vase sourced at our wonderful Randolph Street Market filled with fresh hyacinths from my dear friend, Pamella! Join the 20th Anniversary Randolph Street Market for its first weekend of 2023, May 27th and 28th.

FRIDAY MUSINGS: IT’S A VINTAGE GARDEN PARTY

May 24, 2019June 17, 2022nenasnotesLeave a comment

By now you know I look forward to the end of each month when the Randolph Street Market appears on my calendar and I must admit the May Market, (which begins the outdoor season, though September), is my favorite month of all (please don’t tell the other months they will be jealous!). It not only gives us the feeling that Summer is almost with us but also dramatically enlarges RSM, of course, the chock a block three floors of Plumbers Hall are with us year round. Celebrating its Sweet Sixteen year the outdoor season kicks off with a vintage garden party, not only will you find the most amazing vintage one of a kind treasures, but you can eat and drink to your hearts content while listening to music all day (the Market is open from 9 to 5 each day), great people watching and you can shop, shop, shop…that is the point my dears! This May you can also get gardening tips, plants and supplies whether you are a seasoned gardener or a novice. As with all the dealers, be sure to engage them in conversation to learn more about collecting, styling yourself and your home and now your garden. Looking to expand your collections from books to mirrors to paintings, to furniture, to refurbished bikes to artisan crafts to jewelry and clothing for women and men (there is Father’s Day to think about!!) and items you didn’t even know you needed or wanted….look no further it is all at RSM. By the way, do you know I do two monthly posts, totally different from this blog, on the RSM’s blog…one on collectibles and one on fashion…be sure to check them out, this month I featured Lady Head Vases and Trench Coats. If we are all into sustainability and recycling, and we should be, we need to think VINTAGE!!!

47C4F16C-7F1E-444C-BDCD-B6AE964FA587

Now I wanted to share the dynamic RSM newsletter with you…it will give you many more details and was impossible to replicate so I am giving you the link. By the way this is not a paid endorsement just information I want to share with you dear readers so you can enjoy the Market as much as I do. It is there rain or shine and you will enjoy a day out in our wonderful Chicago! Happy hunting!

Randolph Street Market May Event

BB73D3B5-218F-44A8-9AAA-15DB0B229886 Our inspiration, Sally Schwartz, Founder of Randolph Street Market.

COLLECTIONS: AMBER

January 25, 2018August 23, 2022nenasnotes6 Comments

Raw amber

I have always been a huge fan of Amber jewelry I guess it is in my DNA…unfortunatly I only have one piece from my Father’s mother, the only thing I have of her and I never met any of my grandparents, so naturally, I treasure it. I’ll show it to you in the post.

These three photos show you some versions of raw amber some polished a bit some just the raw stones. Amber is fossilized tree resin and has been prized through the ages. It is found primarily in the Baltic countries but is seen elsewhere in the world. You can find many sites on Google. Today’s post is primarily on jewelry and one spectacular room and, of course, a couple of books for good measure!

All three photos from Pinterest photo credit unknown.

My friend, Barbara Varro, collected her pieces in Poland and was kind enough to bring me several pieces throughout the years. Here is her collection, I took the photos when I was visiting last summer in anticipation of this post.

The necklaces in different pairings, I would wear them all together.

Her amber ring collection on my finger……

Some of my pieces almost always worn together, some from Barbara and others collected, over the 15 years of its existence, at Randolph Street Market

Some of the pieces I collected (wish I had gotten more for myself, I did get more pieces as gifts) on my fantastic trip to Russia in 2002. I promise I will do a post on the trip when I can find my photos. The top piece is lightly polished raw amber, love it, the center piece is white amber and the bottom piece is polished and probably Victorian…got that one at an antique fair in Moscow (which, by the way, was amazing!) I usually wear these as a grouping. A Nena’s Note…each morning in Moscow we would go to a different specialty shop, one of which was all amber….extraordinary. Each day and this was early morning for shopping, say 8ish, we were greeted by trays of small shot glasses of ice-cold vodka…8 AM…I don’t drink vodka, I know, you are saying isn’t she of Russian heritage, and yes she is! But I don’t drink vodka, certainly not neat and at 8 AM! Well, guess what I had to shoot the offered nectar or I would be offending our hosts, I most certainly didn’t want to cause an International incident! Still, don’t like vodka!

My faceted collection, the top piece is my Grandmother’s piece, the middle is multi-colored from St. Petersburg and the bottom piece one of my Randolph Street Market finds. I usually wear them together.

I have had a difficult time trying to find earrings that don’t have silver mountings…I do have one pair again from RSM that is multicolor dropped stones and a pair of hoops that go with my amber but are faux! Here are a couple of earrings that I would love to have.

Aren’t they stunning!!!!

Here is a necklace I would love as well, wouldn’t you…..The three photos are from Pinterest photo credit unknown.

A necklace from the talented hands of Margaret Buckman

Information from Margaret (who was one of my first profiles, go to my archives to learn all about this talented lady!) “This piece is natural shaped beads of Tibetan amber, inset with turquoise mosaics and coral pieces. Each side of the bead has a Chinese coin silver zodiac character, the entire bead is inlaid with silver and inset with biwa pearls.”

Made especially for me by Margaret Buckman several years ago, it includes many of my broken necklaces pieces along with some from the designer. It is a huge statement piece and I wear it often usually with my embroidered jacket from my Moscow trip. It is one of my most favorite necklaces.

Now on to an amazing treasure, The Amber Room in Catherine’s Palace outside of St. Petersburg. It was just being reconstructed when I was there. The Room had been “lost” during World War II and there are many stories of what happened to it. Most of the stories said the keepers of the Palace removed the pieces and hid them from capture from the invading Nazi’s.

Isn’t it glorious….when I find my Russian trip photos I’ll show you it being restored. Photos from Pinterest photo credit unknown.

I have suggested two books for you, one non-fiction and one fiction, both exciting tales. This is the book that got me into reading Steve Berry, one of my favorite authors.

COLLECTIONS: RANDOLPH STREET MARKET — BICYCLES AND PICNICS

May 18, 2017August 23, 2022nenasnotes2 Comments

A vintage card (you can find lots at Randolph Street Market) with old fashion bicycles.

I am so excited to share the information on this season’s first outside/inside Randolph Street Market http://www.randolphstreetmarket.com that will occur on Saturday and Sunday, May 27 and 28 from 10 to 5 and I thought it was the perfect time to think about all the wonderful picnics we can have this summer and what better way to get to them or travel around when we find the perfect location than on a restored Schwinn bicycle! Well, lucky us we have just the thing at RSM (of course, we do!!!!) Mike’s Bikes returns for the 11th season.

Looks like a perfect day for a picnic. Not only can you find the right bicycle but you can find all the “fixings” for your picnic as well at RSM. All you need is a beautiful setting, some yummy food (yes, you can also get some goodies at the Market!) and good friends. Chicago and all the suburbs have wonderful spots to picnic, or go to Ravinia for one of the fabulous concerts, Harbor Country or neighboring Wisconsin for all their summer events…you can picnic every weekend through October.

Basically, the first thing you see when you arrive at the Randolph Street entrance to RSM is Mike’s Bikes. Mike is an encyclopedia on the history of Schwinn bicycles, by the way, the company was founded in Chicago in 1895. He only restores vintage Schwinn and each is totally unique and Mike wants to pair his bikes with the perfect person and lovingly takes the time to talk to each client and explains every detail of each bicycle. I have seen many a happy smile on the new owner’s faces when they leave with a treasure, either to relive their youth and/or form new memories for themselves or their families, it is wonderful to experience their pure joy!

Michael Mitchell has shared his passion with me and I now share it with you in his words.

“I have been selling vintage Chicago manufactured Schwinn bicycles at Randolph (May-Sept.) for ten years and I have enjoyed every moment. Along the way, I have met so many interesting people who share the love for these bikes. The bikes make their eyes light up and they begin by reminiscing and sharing childhood experiences of riding bikes with family and friends.

The complete process of reconditioning the average vintage lightweight Schwinn takes approximately ten hours. The process of reconditioning a bike begins with:

1. All bearings cleaned and greased.

2. Worn parts are replaced ( brake pads, brake and gear cables, and ball bearings.

3. Replacement of tires and inner tubes ( if needed)

4. Paint cleaned, polished and waxed.

5. All chrome polished.

At the end of the reconditioning process, the bike is like brand new. If needed, the spokes are replaced and the wheels are trued. And to top it off, all replacement of parts are made with original Schwinn parts.

I recondition 1960’s – 70’s Schwinns as well as vintage Raleighs (manufactured in Nottingham, England).

As a result of the reconditioning process, each bike is priced individually because many of them require more parts and labor.

I retired from teaching school ten years ago, but prior to that, I was reconditioning the bikes for fifteen years. I was always fascinated with the Schwinn brand since childhood. Schwinns by far were at the top of the list when it came to quality and price. As a child, my family could not afford to purchase Schwinn bicycles, but whenever I saw one, I could see the quality of the bike in its paint, chrome, constructed welds, and overall styling. At the age of fourteen, I had saved up enough money to purchase a 10-speed Schwinn Varsity; I’ve been loyal to the brand since.

The 1960’s-70’s vintage Schwinn bikes that I sell are steel framed bikes that were manufactured in Chicago. These are comfort styled vintage bicycles that were designed to provide the rider with comfort seats and upright handlebars. The popular Schwinn models being sold are the Breeze, Racer, Speedster, Collegiate and Suburban bikes. Each bike is reasonably priced and ready to ride without any expensive repairs.”

Looks like heaven to me…you can find similar goodies like everything in these photos, maybe not the flowers, at RSM! The settings are up to you.

How about a couple of recipes for your picnic….one from me and the other from Tom Mantel’s recipe box….

FROM TOM MANTEL’S RECIPE BOX

SPINACH/MUSHROOM QUICHE

Ingredients:

8 oz mushrooms sliced

10 oz fresh spinach

1/2 cup chopped onion

1 cup Swiss cheese

1/2 cup fontina cheese

4 eggs

2 cups half and half

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp pepper

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

1 pastry crust

Method:

Sauté onions and mushrooms until tender.

Add spinach and a couple tsp of water and cover.

Cook stirring frequently until spinach is wilted, let cool a little.

Place pastry crust (can be homemade or store bought) in Quiche plate or a deep dish pie plate.

Distribute cheese over pastry.

Distribute mushroom onion mix over cheese.

Beat eggs, half and half, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper until blended but not frothy.

Pour egg mixture over the spinach cheese mixture.

Bake at 350 for 1 hour.

A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.

Let cooL before cutting

Can be served warm or room temperature.

Nena’s note, I have had this and it is amazingly delicious!

FROM NENA’S RECIPE BOX

DEVILED EGGS

This is just a what I put in my deviled eggs and it’s really not a recipe…you have to do it to taste…sorry!

Remove the yolks from the hard boiled eggs mash with Durkee’s Dressing (a little goes a long way, you can find it with mustards in your grocery store), Miracle Whip (my mayo), salt, freshly ground pepper and a dash of sugar until smooth (no lumps allowed!) either spoon into whites or if you want to be fancy, use a pastry bag with a fine tip and pipe into whites. You can add a herb sprig to the top or if it is a very special picnic a dollop of red caviar, why not! Obviously, the amounts depend upon how many eggs you are doing. They go like hot cakes so be sure to make enough.

All images from Pinterest photo credits not available.

Mike’s contact information:

Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/mikesclassicbikes

Web Page: www.mikesclassicbikes.com

COLLECTIONS: OPALINE

April 27, 2017August 23, 2022nenasnotes2 Comments

One of my treasures given to me by Mark and Linda Heister a vintage gilded green opaline piece with lusters. I sometimes put a pillar candle inside. It is one of a pair and they flank the mantle of the “malachite” fireplace Mark created for me.

A disclaimer before I even begin….you by now know I like to take my own photos for my posts and I am usually pleased with them. Today is an exception…no apologies just fact, they aren’t my best work. You see, as I have told you many times, I live in a very small space and each and every surface is covered with collections, books, etc. therefore it is often difficult to stage and capture the exact image I want due to lighting or space limitations…please forgive me on this occasion and enjoy my collection of opaline. I appreciate your indulgence.

Actually, it was my Mother who started this collection. Again, you know blue isn’t my favorite color, I am a green girl (and yes you will see green in this post!) but my Mother, Ruth, adored anything blue and I adored her so it became a part of our home for many years. The breakfront I have featured in the past was filled (jammed) with her Bristol blue collection which she had acquired over many years. One night I came home from work and found the cupboard with a totally different look…she had sold the entire (almost) collection! Needless to say, I was totally startled and asked why…her answer, it was time for a change. Understand Ruth would constantly rearrange our home on a regular basis, sometimes weekly, so this wasn’t an unusual occurrence. I, on the other hand, loathe change. We did keep several pieces and I still have them and treasure them.

Two opaline sconces on one of the walls, this wall is on the side of my French daybed. You can see a little peek of one of my early needlepoint pieces, actually, Ruth drew the violets (her favorite flower) and I needlepointed it and framed in in an antique frame. Needlepoint with be a multi posting in the future. These sconces can be put together and form a chandelier. In my mind, I think we purchased these a zillion years ago at a Lake Forest Antique Show. They are two of my favorite things.

A close up of one of the sconces.

A companion chandelier hangs over my desk, where I write nenasnotes. The cord is covered in shirred apricot silk taffeta. You can see an oil on wood painting in a distressed ornate gilt frame which I look at each time I sit at my desk, and, of course, books that are on a vintage bamboo shelf, one of many, on my window ledge. The painting and shelf purchased at the Randolph Street Market. The April market is this Saturday and Sunday, April 29 and 30 from 10 to 5 http://www.randolphstreetmarket.com.  Perhaps you will find similar treasures, do come and see!

The remains of Mom’s blue collection, some opaline some milk glass most collected many, many years ago others I have recently added, these grouped together on top of one of my Chinoiserie file cabinets.

Here a great example of the multitude of shades of blue (not gray!!!) in opaline and milk glass. Both vases are handpainted and again from Randolph Street Market. The box predates RSM.

A small lid that is handpainted with forget-me-knots another favorite of the Ivon girls. The bottom long gone but I thought this was too interesting to trash.

An apricot opaline base for a tiny lamp which sits on top of books, of course, it does! I imagine it was once a vase or candle holder, probably a pair. It has always been a lamp to me. The piece to the left is a beaded handpainted fabric and barely visable behind is a portion of a heavily appliqued lace curtain, both from RSM. My home is mostly green but I have accented it with shades of apricot as well as picking up colors from my paisley shawl collection and the pastels in my vintage Chindia rugs.

A vignette of a portion of my green opaline collection. The tussie mussie holder encases an antique lace dollie and silk violets. Behind it is a collection of candle holders and the water color is from my trip to Russia. Under all a vintage handmade crazy quilt, another collection. I have a couple of full quilts as well as many remnants. All from the Randolph Street Market. Perhaps this might inspire you to mix and match your collections…as you know Victoriana is a passion of mine and the Victorians always felt more is more!!!! I most certainly agree. I think my opaline collection is what led me to start collecting Jadeite which I use as my everyday dishes and have posted an image of some of it on my kitchen shelves. You can find reams and reams of information on Jadeite, (which was cheap as chips when it was first manufactured and now commands very high prices, but you can find all manner of Jadeite at all prices at RSM), but not much on opaline, I couldn’t find a single book on the subject!!! Do let me know if you know of some.

Very unusual color for opaline, a putty, handpainted with my favorite flower, lily of the valley. The small vase is a celadon green it also handpainted with lily of the valley. Both are one of a pair. The larger pair sits on either side on top of my breakfront and the small ones are placed in front of the lusters on top of my fireplace.

Another pair, this time handpainted with beautiful English rose buds, forget me knot and lily of the valley…three of my favorite all on one vase, bonus! You can barely see the gilt dots at the base and around the top. They are on either side of the top of the drawer portion of the breakfront and hold dried tree hydrangea.

A close up of the painting…I love its three-dimensional effect. All the above vases I have gotten at the Randolph Street Market and they have been collected over the years.

Please share your comments and what you like to collect, I am thinking of doing a “contest” with the prize being a season pass to the Randolph Street Market….your thoughts!!!???