Unique Item: Bulletproof Vest

This may look like the average 1930s wool suite vest, however add 15 pounds of metal inserts and you have a Dunrite bulletproof vest. These were popular among gangsters as they are inconspicuous and light enough for a quick getaway. However they offer minimal protection.

John Dillinger's gang used bulletproof vests, usually stolen from police stations. A Dunrite vest was found in Clyde Barrow and Bonnie Parker's Ford V8 with a few bullet holes.*

This vest was manufactured by Detective Publishing Co., Chicago. The front and back are connected by snaps at the shoulders and elastic straps on the sides which can be adjusted for size. This vest is a good example of the different materials we have in the collection. It combines wool, metal and plastic. Caring for items with more than one material can be a challenge. Through the textile project we hope to find the best storage for unique items like this.

Bulletproof vests have come a long way since the 1930s, but I think these look classier. 

Donated by Roger and Beverly Rose

*Dary Matera, John Dillinger: The Life and Death of America's First Celebrity Criminal, (New York: Caroll & Gaff Publishers, 2004), 392.

Getting The Picture

Getting The Picture Series
It is always a great day when an actual object in the museum's collection can be matched up with a photograph of the original owner or their descendants wearing or using the object. This not only documents the donor's claims  but provides illustrations for an exhibit storyline. (Plus it is just plain fun to see who wore what when). Every once and a while I will be adding some of these images along with the associated artifacts to Katrina's blog. We would love to hear your comments, so please, do not be shy!  CuratorDeb

The white furry coat was worn by Margaret Crowner Sell, the taller girl in the photograph taken on March 29, 1915. Next to Margaret is her sister, Helen, in a matching coat.

Great Beginnings

The museum is very excited about our textile project and having such a great intern as Katrina head it. We look forward to sharing our "forgotten gems," uncovering of new details and making discoveries with you. Please send us your comments.

Introduction

The Oshkosh Public Museum has a wonderful collection of textiles  ranging from hats and shoes to dresses  and quilts. However, the storage room on the third floor is getting a little crowded. That's where I come in.

I will be working with curator Deb Daubert and dedicated volunteers to reorganize and catalog the extensive collections as well as research the best ways to care and store the items. We are always looking for volunteers, especially those with textile experience.

We will be showing the progress being made, taking a look at behind the scenes action and showing interesting treasures we find along the way.


I hope you join us as we dive into fabric and feathers!


Katrina