Unique Item: Trick Fan

This year, the spring in Spring Break seems to be missing. But soon enough, the weather will turn warm and we'll have to break out the shorts and flip flops to stay cool. Another fun summer accessory is the fan. They come in all shapes and sizes. Over at the museum our fan collection features colorful scenes, lace and ivory, even fabric and feathers. One of the more interesting fans is hiding as something else.

This may seem like the average cigar, however pull the end to reveal a hidden surprise. 

This trick fan dates from the late 1800s to early 1900s. 

While these three young men pose for a picture, the one on the right holds a similar fan, showing that fans were't just for the ladies.

Novelty fans are a fun way to beat the heat or start a conversation. Even our ancestors knew how to make great gimmicks.