Recent Acquisitions Virtual Exhibit

background image

Recent Acquisitions

Virtual Exhibit

Historic Columbia’s museum collections are continually changing with the addition of new objects. Some are donated, some are purchased, and some are transferred from other institutions. Acquisitions during fiscal year 2019-2020 fell under each of these categories resulting in new and interesting additions. We are pleased to share some highlights.

Woodrow Family Chairs

These two cane-seat chairs once belonged to Dr. and Mrs. James Woodrow, who were known to be a favorite aunt and uncle of young Woodrow Wilson. The chairs remained in family possession until their recent donation.

Historic Columbia collection, HCF 2019.16.1-2

Women's Clothing Brochures

In this February 1942 issue of Belk's Department Store catalog, the latest fashion of the early 1940s were on display. The catalog even had a full page of "flattering maternity fashions" for expecting mothers.

Image One

Image Two

Historic Columbia collection, HCF2019.14

Now an outdated fashion, corsets were once an everyday part of life. This Haltiwanger's brochure titled "The Wear and Care of Corsets" details instruction on how to care for one's undergarments, tips on saving zippers and garters for future use, and recommendations of flattering styles for differing body types.

Image One

Image Two

Historic Columbia collection, HCF2019.14

Advertising modern dresses for the modern woman, this L'Aiglon dresses from Haltiwanger's brochure showcases five dresses available in various colors. One dress's description mentions the design of "an endless succession of Vs for Victory," which at the time was a not-so-subtle nod to war effort.

Full Image

Historic Columbia collection, HCF2019.14

Photograph, view of Main Street looking North from State House November 6, 1909

Inaugurated in March of 1909, President Taft spent three months of his first year in office on a western and southern United States tour. This photo, taken from the State House's steps show the city of Columbia preparing to receive the president, who had not yet arrived.  

Front Side

Back Side

Historic Columbia collection, HCF2019.9.1

Commercial sign, c. 1950

This "For Sale" sign advertised the real estate firm, Manning and Manning, once located on Devine Street. The business was owned by brothers Preston Cocke Manning and John Adger Manning.

HCF2020.6.1

T-Shirt

Modjeska Monteith Simkins, a human rights activist, is one of the founding members of the South Carolina NAACP. Simkins is regarded today as a pioneering advocate for healthcare, women's rights, and the environment. 

Historic Columbia collection HCF2019.17.1