Article Archives: What’s in the Attic?

What’s Hot for 2019?

January 3, 2019 | by Linda Hamer Kennett

With 2018 filed away and a brand new year ahead of us, I thought it a good time to take a look at what will be trending for the next 12 months. While it will vary on who you ask, the majority of the experts in the field of collecting … Read More

The Magic of Santa

December 20, 2018 | by Linda Hamer Kennett

Santa Claus, as we know him today, first appeared in the 1823 Clement C. Moore poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” where he is described as “chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf.” This figure was popularized in 1863 with a series of illustrations by Thomas Nast that appeared … Read More

Sleigh Bells Ring . . .

December 13, 2018 | by Linda Hamer Kennett

Since early Roman times bells have adorned many a horse, not only adding to the beauty of the steed, but to a more practical purpose — warning pedestrians to step aside. Horse bells have been believed to bring good luck, protect against disease, ward off evil and were often used … Read More

The Tradition of the Nativity

December 6, 2018 | by Linda Hamer Kennett

The Nativity scene, also known as a Manger Scene, Crèche or Crib is one of the most enduring and endearing symbols of the Christmas season. Inspired by a trip to the Holy Land, St. Francis of Assisi created the know Nativity scene in 1223 using real animals and townspeople. As … Read More

Christmas Lights

November 29, 2018 | by Linda Hamer Kennett

The Christmas of 1835 found Harvard professor Charles Follen yearning for his German homeland. Although his life’s work as an educator and political activist would earn him many distinctions, he is most fondly remembered for his actions that Christmas Eve. Keeping with a 200 year old German tradition, he brought … Read More