Duckwells

Avon Cosmetics is a well-known global beauty company that has been around for over 135 years. The company was founded by David H. McConnell in 1886, in New York City. McConnell, a traveling book salesman, had noticed that his female customers were more interested in the free perfume samples he offered than in his books. This led him to the idea of creating a perfume company that would be run by women and sell its products directly to consumers. Initially, the company was called the California Perfume Company, and it sold just five fragrances. The name "Avon" was adopted in 1939, inspired by the Avon River in McConnell's native England. By this time, the company had expanded beyond fragrances and was selling a wider range of beauty products. In the early days, Avon products were sold door-to-door by female representatives, who were known as Avon Ladies. This model allowed women to earn an income at a time when few opportunities were available to them. It also allowed Avon ...

Featherstone Flamingos are a classic lawn ornament that has been popular for decades. These pink plastic birds can be seen in yards across the country, adding a touch of whimsy to any outdoor space. In this blog post, we'll explore the history of Featherstone Flamingos and share some tips for incorporating them into your own lawn decor. History of Featherstone Flamingos Don Featherstone, a sculptor and artist, designed the first Featherstone Flamingos in 1957. He was working for Union Products, a plastic manufacturing company, and was tasked with creating a new product line for the company. Featherstone's wife, Nancy, had recently taken a trip to Florida and brought back pictures of flamingos, which inspired Featherstone's design. The first Featherstone Flamingos were made of molded plastic and had metal legs. They quickly became popular and have remained so ever since. Featherstone continued to design other lawn ornaments for Union Products, but it was the flamingos that b...

Antique mercury glass, also known as silvered glass or silvered mirror glass, is a type of glassware that has been produced since the 19th century. It is characterized by its silvered, reflective surface, which gives it a unique and elegant appearance. Mercury glass was first produced in Germany in the mid-19th century as a cheaper alternative to traditional silver mirrors. It was made by blowing double-walled glass vessels and filling them with a solution of silver nitrate and mercury. The glass was then sealed, and the solution was swirled around until the silver adhered to the inside of the glass. The result was a mirror-like finish that resembled traditional silver, but at a much lower cost. Over time, mercury glass became popular as a decorative object, especially during the Victorian era. It was often used in the production of lamps, candlesticks, vases, and other decorative items. The glass was often molded into intricate designs, such as fluted columns and acanthus leaves, whic...

Souvenir plates are a popular collector’s item that often have significant historical and cultural value. These plates, which are typically sold as mementos of a particular location or event, have been popular since the late 19th century. Some of the most sought-after souvenir plates are those that are vintage or antique, and they can be valuable pieces of art and history. Vintage souvenir plates are typically considered to be those that were made between the 1920s and the 1960s. These plates were often mass-produced and decorated with images of famous landmarks, scenic views, or local flora and fauna. They were popular among travelers who wanted to take home a tangible reminder of their trip or event. Many of these plates were made by prominent manufacturers such as Wedgwood, Royal Doulton, and Limoges. Antique souvenir plates are those that were made before the 1920s. These plates are often more ornate and decorative than their vintage counterparts, and they were usually produced in ...

Peterborough, New Hampshire is a picturesque town located in the Monadnock Region of southern New Hampshire. With a population of just over 6,000, Peterborough is known for its charming downtown area, beautiful natural scenery, and vibrant arts community. One of the most iconic features of Peterborough is its Main Street, which is lined with historic buildings and local shops and restaurants. Visitors can stroll down the street, stopping to browse the many boutiques and galleries, or grab a bite to eat at one of the town’s many eateries. Peterborough is also home to the Peterborough Players, one of the oldest and most respected professional summer theaters in the country. Founded in 1933, the theater has hosted a wide range of performances over the years, from classic plays to contemporary dramas and musicals. Peterborough is also known for its first in the tax funded library, a town treasure, once mentioned on the Carol Burnett Show! In addition to its thriving arts scene, Peterboroug...

Antique parlor games are games that were popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries, played in the parlors of homes and social gatherings. These games were designed to be played by groups of people and were a form of entertainment that did not require electricity or technology. One popular antique parlor game was Charades, a game in which one person acted out a phrase or word, and the other players had to guess what it was. Charades required creativity and acting skills and was a favorite game among adults and children. Another popular game was Blind Man’s Bluff, in which one person was blindfolded and had to try to catch the other players. The other players would try to avoid being caught by moving around quietly and quickly, adding an element of suspense and excitement to the game. Fortune-telling games were also popular during this time period. One such game was called The Oracle, in which a person asked a question and received an answer in the form of a poem or riddle. Another fo...

Imperial Glass was a glassware company founded in 1901 in Bellaire, Ohio. The company quickly became known for its high-quality glassware and innovative designs. Imperial Glass produced a wide range of glassware, including tableware, vases, and decorative pieces. One of the reasons Imperial Glass was so successful was because of its use of innovative manufacturing techniques. The company employed skilled artisans who used a variety of techniques, including pressed glass and hand-blown glass, to create beautiful, intricate pieces of glassware. Imperial Glass was also known for its attention to detail and use of high-quality materials, which helped ensure the longevity of each piece. Imperial Glass produced a wide range of glassware, including some of the most popular and collectible pieces of the 20th century. One of the most popular designs was the Imperial Grape pattern, which featured a grapevine motif and was produced in a variety of colors, including amber, blue, green, and pink. O...

NC Wyeth was an American artist and illustrator whose iconic book illustrations continue to inspire generations of readers and artists alike. His unique style, attention to detail, and masterful use of color and light brought to life many classic works of literature, including Treasure Island and The Last of the Mohicans. In this blog post, we'll highlight the artistic legacy of NC Wyeth, including some of his most famous book illustrations and discussing why they continue to captivate audiences today. NC Wyeth was born in Needham, Massachusetts, in 1882, and grew up in a family of artists. He began his career as an illustrator in 1902, creating artwork for magazines and advertisements. However, it was his work as a book illustrator that brought him the greatest recognition and acclaim. Wyeth's artistic style was characterized by his use of bold colors, dramatic lighting, and attention to detail. His illustrations were often large in size and featured multiple characters and co...

Jacob Riis, a Danish-American journalist and social reformer, is best known for his groundbreaking work titled "How the Other Half Lives: Studies among the Tenements of New York." The book, which was published in 1890, is an exposé on the living conditions of the poor in New York City's tenements, and it remains a seminal work on the subject to this day. However, before Riis published his magnum opus, he wrote a memoir titled "The Making of an American." In this post, we will examine the making of "The Making of an American." Riis's memoir is an account of his life as an immigrant in America, and it charts his rise from a penniless Danish immigrant to a successful journalist and reformer. The book was published in 1901, more than a decade after "How the Other Half Lives," and it reflects Riis's continued commitment to social reform. "The Making of an American" is also significant because it provides a rare glimpse into the l...

Hubley Manufacturing Company was founded in 1894 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and became known for producing high-quality cast iron toys, doorstops, and other decorative items. One of the most popular types of Hubley cast iron toys were their toy vehicles, which included cars, trucks, motorcycles, and airplanes. These toys were highly detailed and beautifully crafted, with intricate designs and working parts. Many of them were also painted with bright colors and designs, making them attractive to both children and adults. In addition to their toy vehicles, Hubley also produced a wide range of other cast iron toys, including animals, figures, and miniature replicas of household items. These toys were highly sought-after by collectors and enthusiasts, and many of them are now considered valuable antiques. One of the reasons that Hubley cast iron toys were so popular was their durability. Cast iron is a sturdy and long-lasting material, and the toys were designed to withstand rough play an...

Are you a fan of the Rat Pack era and Las Vegas collectibles? If so, you’re in luck! In this blog post, we’ll be discussing the history of the Rat Pack era and its impact on Las Vegas collectibles, as well as providing tips on how to collect these iconic items. So, let’s get started! What is the Rat Pack Era? The Rat Pack era refers to a period in American entertainment history, which spanned from the 1950s to the 1960s. It was characterized by the rise of a group of entertainers who were known for their incredible talent, charisma, and style. These entertainers included Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Peter Lawford, and Joey Bishop. During this era, Las Vegas was a hub of entertainment, and the Rat Pack members were frequent performers at some of the city’s most prestigious venues, including the Sands Hotel and Casino, the Flamingo Hotel, and the Riviera Hotel. The Rat Pack members’ performances were characterized by their incredible stage presence, impeccable style, and ...

In the world of fashion, accessories are as important as the outfits themselves. One such accessory that has stood the test of time is the handbag. A handbag is more than just a fashion statement; it is a utility item that carries all your essentials in one place. And when it comes to handbags, one name that stands out is Whiting and Davis. In this blog post, we will explore the history, craftsmanship, and timeless elegance of Whiting and Davis purses. History of Whiting and Davis: Whiting and Davis is an American company that has been making luxury handbags for over a century. The company was founded in 1876 in Plainville, Massachusetts by Charles Whiting and Edward Davis. Initially, the company specialized in making jewelry, but they soon shifted their focus to mesh handbags. The mesh used in Whiting and Davis handbags was originally intended for industrial purposes. However, the founders of the company recognized the potential of the material in the fashion industry. The mesh is mad...

  Looking for high-quality vintage metal giftware that is both functional and beautiful? Look no further than Hans Jensen Denmark, a silversmith of metal giftware with a reputation for timeless elegance. Hans Jensen was a Danish silversmith from 1899 – 1970. The Danish company was a part of family business known for high-quality silver and silverplate located in Copenhagen and Aarus. Traditionally, the company’s craftsmen made boxes, bracelets, brooches and decorative items for the interior. A distinctive feature of the design is hand forging and artistic engraving, which included floral motifs, folkloric scenes of village life. The company sold high quality silver products not only in Denmark, but also in most Scandinavian countries, such as Sweden, Finland and Norway. The silversmith's hallmark is a fish or whale. In addition to their beautiful designs, Hans Jensen Denmark also offers exceptional quality. Their products were made using high-grade materials, ensuring that each pie...

Legardo Tackett (1913-1994) was a renowned American ceramic artist and designer known for his avant-garde approach to pottery and innovative use of technology in ceramics. His work has been exhibited in museums and galleries around the world and is considered a significant contribution to the field of contemporary ceramics. Tackett was born in Kansas and spent his childhood in rural America. He attended the University of Southern California where he studied fine arts, including sculpture and pottery. After completing his degree, he worked for several years as a ceramics instructor and continued to develop his unique approach to the medium. In the 1950s, Tackett began experimenting with new forms and techniques in ceramics, including using slip-casting and molds to create complex shapes that were impossible to achieve through traditional hand-building methods. He also incorporated industrial materials such as plastic and fiberglass into his work, blurring the boundaries between art and ...

If you're a collector of vintage glassware or a fan of historical objects, you've likely heard of Pairpoint Cup Plates. These small, delicate plates are a popular item among collectors, and they have a fascinating history. Pairpoint Cup Plates were first produced by the Pairpoint Manufacturing Company in the early 19th century. The company was founded in 1837 in New Bedford, Massachusetts, by Thomas J. Pairpoint, and it quickly became known for its high-quality silver and glassware. The Cup Plates themselves were designed to be used with small tea cups, and they were often used at social gatherings in the 19th century. Each plate featured a unique design, which was often hand-painted by skilled artisans. Some of the most popular designs included scenic landscapes, floral patterns, and portraits of historical figures. One of the reasons that Pairpoint Cup Plates are so popular among collectors is that they look so beautiful in a window, with their colors popping through the ligh...

The Down Easters, written by Basil Lubbock, is a classic maritime history book that explores the fascinating world of the American clipper ships in the mid-19th century. Published in 1929, the book provides an in-depth look into the construction, design, and operation of these fast and sleek sailing vessels, which revolutionized the shipping industry and played a significant role in the development of global trade. Lubbock, who was a noted British author and historian, spent several years researching and compiling the information for this book, and it shows in the detailed and comprehensive coverage of the subject matter. The book is divided into several chapters, each of which covers a specific aspect of the clipper ship's design and operation, including the construction of the ships, the rigging and sails, the crew and their daily life on board, and the famous races that were held between rival ships. One of the most interesting aspects of the book is Lubbock's account of the...