Daily Reminder by the Standard Diary Company

Founded in 1850 by Edwin Dresser and Eben Denton, what eventually became known as the Standard Diary Company has modest beginnings in two rooms over a storefront on Massachusetts Avenue in Cambridge. The company produced small diaries and memo books on hand-turned presses from paper carried from Boston by the owners.

As the popularity of the diaries grew, most significantly during the Civil War and World War I, the company adapted to its growing needs. In 1857 Standard Diary leased more spacious quarters on Magazine Street where, in 1873, it was incorporated as the Cambridgeport Diary Company. In 1889, it purchased land on the corner of Blackstone and Albro Streets to locate a new factory and headquarters among related institutions including The Riverside Press and Little & Brown Bindery.

Designed by architects Chamberlin & Whidden, the four-story brick structure at 24 Blackstone Street was built to accommodate all the company's needs. A two-story warehouse was added in 1929.

from Blackstone Project Team 

 

This diary was kept by Elliott Fontaine in 1912 and now serves as inspiration for this blog going into 2012!  This journal will be on display at the WF accompanied by a more legible copy of Mr. Fontaine's entries.   

Victorian Yuletide: Mr. Fontaine's Christmas Carol

Elliott Hill Fontaine was the youngest living son of Mr. Noland Fontaine.  He was given his name in honor of his grandmother, Mary Elliott-Fontaine and his father's business partner Mr. Napolean Hill.  Elliott Fontaine passed away when he was only 34, but not before he could live the most colorful life.  Full of love and riches, his life brought him many happy times.  He was a very giving and loving gentleman.  He loved his family and created an extended family of his friends that he enjoyed entertaining.  Mr. Fontaine had an early and  sincere appreciation for the arts and literature.  So much, in fact, that the wildly popular The Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens was given to him by his grandmother as a Christmas gift.  This handsome leather-bound book  has green silk lining and  gold gilded pages.  The pages are still in excellent condition, though yellowed.  Just inside is a small presentation note with a large seal of the Fontaine family crest.  The copyright is 1902, clearly making this a gift given over the age of 18...which would be appropriate for the time. 

The book itself is on display at the WF inside the small, formal parlor on the first floor.  It rests on Mrs. Fontaine's writing desk that was generously given back to the mansion by the family's estate. 

Victorian Yuletide: Christmas Presents for Gentlemen

Gentlemen do not care for the pretty trifles and decorations that delight ladies; and as for real necessities, they are apt to go and buy anything that is a convenience just as soon as it is discovered. Knickknacks, articles of china, etc,. are generally useless to them.

A Lady cannot give a gentleman a gift of great value because he would certainly feel bound to return one still more valuable and thus her gift would lose all its grace and retain only a selfish commercial aspect.

What, then, shall she give? Here is the woman's advantage. She has her hands, while men must transact all their present giving in hard cash. She can hem fine handkerchiefs-and in order to give them intrinsic value, if their relationship warrants such a favor, she can embroider the name or monogram with her own hair. If the hair is dark it has a very pretty, graceful effect, and the design may be shaded by mingling the different hair of the family. We knew a gentlemen who for years lost every handkerchief he took to the office; at length his wife marked them with her own hair, and he never lost another.

The bare fact of rarity can raise an object commercially valueless, to an aesthetic level. Souvenirs from famous places or of famous people, a bouquet of wild thyme from Mount Hymettus, an ancient Jewish shekel or Roman coin, etc. All such things are very suitable as presents to gentlemen and will be far more valued than pins, studs, etc., which only represent a certain number of dollars and cents. Do not give a person who is socially your equal a richer present than he is able to give you. He will be more mortified than pleased. But between equals it is often an elegance to disregard cost and depend on rarity, because gold cannot always purchase it. Still between very rich people presents should also be very rich or else their riches are set above their friendship and generosity.

Harper’s Bazar

December, 1879

Victorian Yuletide: Gifts for the Whole Family

If you are struggling with last minute gifting ideas, take a few tips from the Victorians.  Gifts were generally more intimate...something directly from the heart.  Most Victorians received only one gift, not like today's bounty that is usually found under the tree on Christmas morning.  In fact, most small gifts were hidden deep inside the branches of the tree...

for Mother

an apron, stationery or pen-wipers, a fan, a silk lined sewing basket with its many accessories, a strawberry or tomato shaped pincushion pretty enough to be used as a tree decoration, lacy needle cases, a silver thimble and sewing scissors. tea ball or strainer, jewelry, a magazine subscription, cologne, handkerchiefs or scarves, combs, a needle-case or watch-case

for Father or Grandfather

a muffler or scarf, embroidered suspenders, Berlin work slippers, a monogrammed tobacco pouch, a chamois eyeglass cleaner elegantly bound in a crewel stitched cover, an India work humidor, or a gift of homemade cookies in a handsome handmade container, an umbrella, a cigar case, embroidered bed slippers

for Grandmother

pomander ball, wonder ball (small gifts wrapped in a ball of yarn), a plant, photograph frame, doilies, a rosebud sachet, a pen-wiper in the shape of a water lily, a knitting bag worked with blue silk floss and matching blue fringe, book-markers

for a Girl

hair ribbons, drawing pencils , a muff, a wardrobe of crochet and lace edged blankets and dresses for dolly, a tiny wax doll in its nutshell cradle, diminutive reproductions of bed quilts, a painting set, a fan, a music book, some sachets, a sewing kit, a book, a canary, mittens, a bisque doll

for a Boy

a sled, stamp album, skates, some carved and painted toy animals, a pen wiper hidden beneath some engagingly worked plaything, a model train, toy pistol, wind-up soldier, marbles, building blocks, a savings bank, shoeshine kit

Victorian Yuletide: Celebrating 140 Years

This morning's blogging pays a respectful tribute to the very first wedding at the WF!  It was December 21st 1871, just shy of two months of the construction of the mansion.  The Woodruffs threw one of the largest celebrations that Memphis has ever seen.  Mollie, the middle...and favored, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Amos Woodruff was married in the small parlor and the "Merry Christmas" reception that was hosted by the Woodruffs for the newlyweds  in the ballroom, just adjacent to the parlor.  Mollie and her new husband Egbert Wooldridge moved into the second floor suite after the marriage.  

Mollie was quite fond of the cabbage rose.  In her memory, our display has included pale pink roses of all kinds throughout the first floor, where the wedding actually took place.

The small parlor is set for a quaint wedding.  The table is dressed with a wedding cake and the happy couple wears antique clothing, perhaps something Mollie would have worn.  There is also a ring on her finger, that is actually from archives!  This ring belonged to the Fontaine family.  (While not completely  accurate, it does make for a pretty sight to behold.)

All the tables in the room are draped with beautiful ivory silk scarves and coverings.  They are both include tassel fringe and heavy embroidery.  Delicate, yet very strong.

Hauling Out the Holly

A few short weeks after Halloween, volunteers started the annual task of decorating for the holidays. There are absolutely no pictures, because we all looked a little rough and the ladies would skin me alive. (Of course they're always lovely and gracious...the epitome of Southern Belles...but, I'm not willing to risk it) The first floor of the mansion is dedicated to Mollie Woodruff...she was married to Egbert Wooldridge on December 21, 1871...the wedding took place in the house, as did the reception. Holiday trim is more minimal than years past, but still festive. The staircase is laced with garland with roses (Mollie's favorite flower) and burgundy ribbon. The dining room is set for a midnight supper and the ballroom houses the Christmas tree (while petite, the size is more accurate of Victorian Christmas tradition, the decorations well than make up for the lack of tree).

The second floor is, again, dedicated to the Woodruff's era. A simpler time when candles lit trees and families crowded together in the family parlor. There are two trees, though lit with the electric light, depict a more accurate tree of the time. The third floor is minimal, yet, showcases more trim in lieu of trees. Dedicated to the Fontaine family and the era of industry and growth. It was during this time that the Fontaine family lived in the mansion. Running water, electricity, and an air of significant change and growth were established during this time. Thus, the Fontaine's pushed the mansion into an new age of modern conveniences.

Victorian Yuletide exhibit will be on display until January 8, 2012. Sparkling Lights: A Winter Evening Tour will be given Friday, December 16th...the open tour will begin at 5PM and run until 8PM. It will be a leisurely, self guided tour for the whole family.

Nouveau Nuptials

 Below are just a few images that I shot during the night.  It was a beautiful success, that included the very best in the special event and wedding industry.  Michelle Williams spear-headed this idea back in July...after working (sometimes day and night) to bring everything together, the event was absolutely stunning.  Southern Bride magazine was a partner and are ready to see more of the WF used for upscale events and weddings.  I believe, with this particular group of vendors, a "Pandora's box" has been opened.  There's no telling what we'll be seeing in the future.

Hello, old friend!

It's been far too long since my last post.  As things go, life sometimes gets in the way.  Since October, we've been very busy at the WF.  (My goodness, where to begin?) 

Haunted Happenings was a fright!  We celebrated our resident spirits in grand Victorian fashion with a darkened mansion, paranormal presentations, and Gothic photography by Karen Auburger.  We  had a few "roaming souls" that definitely gave guests a surprise during tours.  Here's a few images from the evening...

The root cellar was strung with cobwebs and glittered black birds by a young volunteer earlier in the day.



Karen Auburger's photography "Elmwood" graced the walls and gave a "grim and dark" beauty to the rustic walls.  I'm hoping that she'll return in the Springtime with a more jovial collection.  The prints are stunning, printed on metallic paper.  She's a wonderful artist and a more lovely lady.

The always handsome and dapper Jon Livaudais served as "Butler" for the evening.  He greeted guests with a kind smile and a bit of whimsy to prepare them for their tour through the darkened halls.

Nothing compares to the lovely ladies that volunteered for the evening!  They, and all of our volunteers made the evening magical!  Ms. Rosemary, Ms. Joan, and Ms. Shirley had quite the evening...they had their share of mischief and pranks hidden under their sleeves.

Stingy Jack, The legend of Jack O'Lantern

Whether Halloween is a time of celebration or not for your family, "moral stories" seem to make their way into some of today's traditions.  Take a moment to listen to this story...it's sinister, fun, and actually has a lesson.

The First American Halloween

As immigrants to America began to arrive from Europe, they brought along many of their beliefs and customs and one of these was Halloween. During the colonial days, the celebration was limited due to the rigid Protestant ways of the early settlers.

However, the southern colonies and Maryland held the customs of various ethnic groups from Europe including the beliefs held by the Native American Indians. All of these beliefs began to join and create a new American version of Halloween.

The first American Halloween celebrations seen were parties that were held to celebrate the harvest. During these socials, neighbors would share stores of their departed loved ones or others they knew, would tell the future of those that wished to know, along with singing and dancing. The trend for Halloween in the beginning days of its creation were mainly centered on ghost telling and mischief.

During the 1800's more immigrants came to America, especially in 1846 when Ireland had the infamous potato famine. With these new immigrants came other Halloween traditions. At this time, Americans everywhere began to dress up in various costumes to go door to door to ask for money or food. This was the beginning of what we know as "trick or treating". Traditions and beliefs emerged such as young women believed doing special tricks with apple parings, mirrors, or yarn they would learn the name of their future husband as long as these tricks were done on Halloween night.

By the late 1800's, Halloween was more about the community gathering for fun instead of the witchcraft, ghost stories, and pranks of yesteryear. The early 1900's brought about Halloween parties for both children and adults and was the most popular way in which to celebrate this holiday. The parties were centered on the food, games, and of course brightly colored costumes instead of the ghosts and ghouls. Even the local newspapers pushed Americans into taking out anything scary from all of their Halloween celebrations, thus the superstitions and ghost stories were fast becoming a thing of the past.

 

Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, and Something Blue...

The timeless gem of nuptial wisdom, "Something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue" was, and is, a gifting code in which to bless the couple's union.  This expression was given new meaning to Mollie Fontaine on her wedding day in February of 1886.  She and her husband Dr. William Taylor were gifted a home built by her father Noland Fontaine, Sr.  It took him four years to build this ten room eclectic Victorian mansion.  During this time Dr. and Mrs. Taylor lived just across the street in Mr. Fontaine's home (now the WF House Museum).  It is often referred to as Mollie's "Victorian Valentine", in honor of their wedding date.  Dr. Taylor died in 1925, but Mrs. Taylor lived in the home until she died in 1939 at the age of 74.  A terra cotta relief of Mollie's face crowns the large picture window in front of the mansion, eternally her "Victorian Valentine".

Today, the mansion is home to Mollie Fontaine Lounge.  An eclectic lounge with some of  the best music, eats, and "spirits" that Memphis has to offer.  Be sure to check this lovely gem out!

Victorian Village Home Tour...THIS WEEKEND!

It's been a few years since the last home tour, and my how things have changed!  Nora Tucker, of Victorian Village Inc., has been such a vital part of engineering this event and really pushing to have the entire village looks and be at it's very best for our guests.  The event is always a grand success, with staggering droves of locals and out-of-towners alike.  Be sure to put this on your calendar for this weekend...the weather will be perfect for a stroll through one of Memphis' most historic and well preserved neighborhoods. 

The WF will be open to the public with entrance through the rear of the museum.  Our Mourning Memphis exhibit will still be on display and our museum shoppe will be well stocked with unusual and charming trinkets to take home with you after your day "in the 19th century".



Victorian Village Home Tour

Featuring nine sites, two concerts and a silent auction

11:00 am - 3:00 pm

Tickets are $15 and can be purchased in front of the Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum on day

of the tour at 680 Adams Avenue with cash or check.

(children six and under are free)

Sites included on the Tour

Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum (c.1871), 680 Adams Ave.

Mollie Fontaine-Taylor House (c.1886), 679 Adams Ave.

Sidewalk Cafe

Goyer-Lee House (c.1873), 690 Adams Ave.

Silent Auction Art & Antiques

Laurelhill (c.1867), 671 Jefferson Ave.

The Henderson's Home (c.2007), 655 Jefferson Ave.

Collins Chapel CME Church (c.1865), 678 Washington Ave.

Gospel Music concert at 1 p.m.

St. Mary's Episcopal Cathedral (c.1898), 700 Poplar Ave.

Organ concert by Scott Elsholz at 2 p.m.

Wright Carriage House Gardens (c.1840), 688 Jefferson Ave.

Garden tour

Juvenile Court (c.1935), 616 Adams Ave.

Centennial exhibit and tour

Historic Homes For Sale: Open House

669 Jefferson Ave. (c.1863)

648 Poplar Ave. (c.1851)

Mourning Memphis: Victorian Book Of The Dead

While most of these images are from the period in which the WF would have stood in Memphis, no Memphian is seen in the pictures.  I decided to wait until closer to Halloween for the "creepy" factor, but the art of Memento Mori (loosely translated "Remember your mortality, Remember you will die, or Remember you must die." was an entire genre of art that was of great virtue and grace at the time.  Most images were of children...as this was the only image the family would ever have of the child.  This all seems quite macabre and maybe taboo to most of us, we must remember the time and place. 

WARNING: IF IMAGES OF THE DECEASED DISTURB YOU, PLEASE DO NOT PLAY THE CLIP.  IT IS INTENDED FOR HISTORICAL AND EDUCATIONAL VALUE.  THE DEEPEST RESPECT HAS BEEN GIVEN TO EACH OF THESE SOULS THROUGH THE BEAUTY OF THIS COLLECTION.

Mourning Memphis: Mother's Mourning

It was an unusual and cruel curse to mourn during pregnancy, yet more a curse to mourn the loss of an infant. The mortality rate of infants during the Victorian era was fifty percent, making gowns like this mourning style maternity dress rare. It is made of lightweight black silk and hangs lower in the front than the back allowing for comfort. Tiny eyehooks along the back make it easy to slip on and the belt ties in the back to create an empire waistline for “cradling” comfort and support. Large cuffs were especially suited for mourning apparel. These cuffs were referred to as “weepers”. Due to uncontrollable and unpredictable fits of weeping, the “weepers” were an instant relief for clearing a tear stained face.

Note: This room is respectfully mentioned as “Mollie’s Room”, as this was Mollie Woodruff’s bedroom while living in this home. Some say that her spirit still resides here because this was said to be where she was happiest, though she lost both her first infant and husband, Egbert Wooldridge within three months of each other. In her death bed, Mollie was quoted as stating, “I’ve never lived a tragic life, but I did know sorrow.“ Mollie loved to look into the rose garden, just below, through her window. The preservationists of this room took this into consideration when selecting the beautiful cabbage rose wallpaper. We try to include dolls and a juvenile feel to her room when staging display, as her perfect world would have included this sort of whimsy. A lovely tribute to a lovely spirit, our dearly departed “Mollie”.

Afternoons in the WF: Scary Dolls

I have friends that are afraid of spiders, clowns, and the dark.  I'm fine with all three of those fears.  I tell you, however, dolls are my absolute worst "creepy" fear.  I've never liked them...the eyes spook me.  Maybe, when younger, I watched one too many horror movies about puppets or dolls coming to life?  Whatever the case, I always feel like they're watching me...it's an unusual feeling...uneasy, to say the least. 

During my afternoon walk through the mansion, I try not to look at the bisque and porcelain dolls in the Rose bedroom or nursery.  Today, I was feeling rather brave and determined to get some pics...so, I went in like a lion...snapped a few...and immediately ran out.  After seeing them in digital form, I was a little disappointed in what I had, so I altered to colors to appear how I saw them this afternoon! 

It's all a bit of harmless "Halloween" fun, though.  We do have several dolls in our collection, usually bringing them out during  our Victorian Yuletide exhibition.  Most of them are very rare and are very valuable, despite their wicked eyes!  They range from bisque to porcelain to china...even a cloth doll from the early 1800's!  I'll try to get a few more pics in, if I can muster the courage.  Enjoy!



Mourning Memphis: Grey Ladies, Stages of Mourning Fashion

There was a strict protocol for mourning dress for those who could afford it, but even the financially-strapped tried to observe some semblance of bereavement. First Mourning lasted for one year and a day. Widows wore only simple matte black, no shiny jewelry, including diamonds, and wore a black crape veil. The mourning veil was worn over the entire head, including the face for six months then pulled back from the face for the remaining six months (and one day). Second Mourning lasted for nine months in which the veil was removed or not, according to social standard, less matte black was worn. During Third Mourning, or “ordinary” mourning, darker grey graduated to shades of light grey and silver. The fabrications were more fancy, including velvet and silk, accented with black wraps and veils (per social custom). Accents of shiny jewelry and trim were also acceptable. Finally Half Mourning was adopted and lasted for a final year. The return of color (purple, maroon, dark green, and deep blue) was socially accepted, accented with shiny jewelry and trim. The fashionable widows sometimes announced their return to the social circles with a Lavender tea, a formal gathering which she appeared in her lavender toilette.

Note: To complicate the already dizzying array of rules, the fashionable set certain rimes for each period of grieving, depending on the relationship of the deceased to the family. Thus it was simpler and less expensive to have only dual use colors in ladies’ frocks and forego the introduction of red, yellow, and some blue color tones. These colors most often appeared as ball gowns and formal occasion dresses.

Mourning Memphis: Elliott Fontaine Dies

I take a personal interest in Mr. Fontaine for many reasons...and have learned that we have many similar personality traits and tastes.  In many ways I "am" Elliott Fontaine.  I'm somewhat of a socalite, I entertain and enjoy the company of close friends and family.  We were both born days apart in July (88 years between) making our characters eerily alike.  Mr. Fontaine and I both share the appreciation of old scotch, rich tobacco, and anything chocolate...(not necessarily in that order).  He had an eye for detail and kept a casual journal called The Daily Reminder, thus inspiring this blog.  My plan today is to lay flowers at his grave today, stargazer lilies...as I'm sure it was a favorite.  Thank you, Mr. Fontaine...may you rest in peace.

ELLIOTT FONTAINE DIES.

Funeral of Young Business Man Will Be Held Today.

Elliott Fontaine, youngest son in one of the old families of Memphis, died yesterday at the home of his mother, Mrs. Virginia Fontaine, 680 Adams Avenue. Mr. Fontaine had been ill but a short time. Early last week he came home from his day’s work at the Union and Planter’s Bank complaining that he was tired out and was feeling the bad effects of a heavy cold, which was later pronounced to be grippe. Pneumonia rapidly developed and resulted in his death yesterday morning.

Mr. Fontaine was paying teller in the savings department at the Union and Planter’s Ban, in which institution he had been employed for a number of years. His father, the late Noland Fontaine, was a member of the firm hill, Fontaine & Company, cotton factors and commission merchants.

Mr. Fontaine was popular with a wide circle of friends and acquaintances in Memphis where his whole life had been passed. He never married, but made his home with his mother.

Mr. Fontaine is survived by his mother, Mrs. Virginia E. Fontaine; two brothers Noland and Edward, and four sisters, Mrs. W.W. Taylor and Mrs. M.I. Meacham of Memphis, Mrs. William H. Carliale of Chicago and Mrs. Russell T. Clarkson of Little Rock. Noland Fontaine was out of the city at the time of his brother’s death, but arrived home last night.

 

Funeral services will be held at the family home, 680 Adams Avenue this afternoon at 3 o’clock. Rev. W.D. Buckner, D. D. rector of Calvary Church, of which Mr. Fontaine was a member, will officiate.

Pall-bearers will be Messrs. Yates Welleford, Addison Tate, Frank Bragg, R. J. Semmes, Jr., Rufus Armistead, Roland Darnell, Dr. Foutaine Moore, Ramsey Beauchamp, Oilmer Winston, and Meacham Stewart.

The Commercial Appeal

September 27, 1918

Mourning Memphis: The Grieving Widow

The widow (or widower) isolate themselves from the funeral and interment. Usually accepting calling mourners in a formal parlor adjacent to the funeral parlor rather than succumbing to deeper grief in the company of others. To ease the pains of loss and bring calm, blackberry brandy was often shared with callers throughout the day and night.

Customarily, the widow’s veil must be worn over the face and dress, simple and black. At the end of three months she may wear the veil lifted off her face. This deep veil must be worn for a year and she must remain in mourning fashion no less than two years. Although in the American South, widows may have worn black for a shorter period due to the extreme heat. In the tropics, a widow’s mourning would have been solid white. Many widows never return to gay colors, some wearing mourning the rest of their lives.

A widower wears mourning for a year, only. His mourning must consist of a black suit, black gloves and necktie, and a deep weed on his hat. Those very punctilious in such matters, wear black edged linen and black studs and cuff buttons.

Children wear mourning for a parent one year. It seems an unnatural custom to put very small children into deep black, even for so near a friend as a parent. Children’s clothes are generally trimmed with black, using removable ribbon and accents.

Mourning Memphis

Black crape is placed upon the door or bell knob, as an indication that the pale dread visitor has entered the home, and borne away another prize. Mirrors are draped in black cloth and the clocks had been stopped inside the home at the time of passing.

When the funeral is held at the home, the family do not view the remains after the people have begun to assemble. Just before the clergyman begins the services the mourners are seated near the casket, the nearest one at the head, and the others following in order of kinship. If it is possible, they are placed in a room adjoining, where the words of the service can be heard. They are thus spared the pain of giving way to their grief before strangers.

“FUNERAL PRIVATE” has caused many to remain away from a funeral, let they intrude. But it merely means that the interment will be private, only a few near friends accompanying the remains to the grave; but at the services all who choose to come will be welcome.

It is no longer the custom to watch the dead…an excellent omission, for many of those vigils were unseemly in their mirth. Some friend or relative sits up in order to give the dead any attention necessary. The preparation of the deceased is always attended by some kindly friends who are not members of the family, and that agonizing duty is spared the afflicted ones. It is more thoughtful for someone to volunteer to remain with the family, through the long sad night hours. It makes the grief and loneliness of the house less oppressive.

BURY AGED MEMPHIAN, A VICTIM OF LONG ILLNESS

The funeral of Noland Fontaine, Sr., who died late Saturday after a long illness, was held from his residence, 680 Adams avenue, at 3 o’clock Monday afternoon.

Following were the pallbearers: Active: Gibson Radcliffe, B.L. Mallory, B.G. Lee, Martin Speed, Fontaine Martin, K.D. McKellar, W.P. Brown, C.W. Metcalf, Jr., S.W. Portlock, J.M. Scruggs. Honorary: J.E. Beasley, R.A. Speed, S.P. Read, W.R. Mallory, H.M. Neely, Hunsdon Cary, W.J. Crawford, J.M. Fowlkes, J.S. Douscomb, F.F. Hill, C.B. Brooks, J.F. Holst, J.F. Hunter, J.A. Omberg, Peter Tracy, S.A. Pepper, H.L. Buckingham, R.E. Lee, R.W. Upshaw, A.H. HilJoblin, O.H. P. Piper, R. H. Vance, W.D. Wilkerson, John Phillips.

The following gentlemen have been appointed by the Hernando Insurance company: O.R. Polk, John R. Pepper, F.M. Norfleet and Paul Dillard.

Mr. Fontaine was 72 years old and left his widow, Mrs. Virginia Fontaine, four daughters Mrs. William W. Taylor, Mrs. W. Louis Meacham, of Memphis/ Mrs. William B. Carlisle, of Chicago and Mrs. R.T. Clarkson, of Little Rock, and three sons, Noland Fontaine, Jr., Edward and Elliott Hill Fontaine, of Memphis.

He was born July 6, 1840, in Terre Haute, Indiana, and came to Memphis from Louisville in 1861 at the age of 21 years. He soon became a member of the firm Williamson, Hill & Co., one of the first big wholesale grocery and cotton firms established in Memphis. Later the name was changed to Hill, Fontaine & Co. Napolean Hill, who died two years ago, being a member.

Three years after he became a resident of Memphis Mr. Fontaine married Miss Virginia Eanes.

At the time of his death Mr. Fontaine was a director of the First National bank, the Union and Planter’s Bank and Trust company, Merchants Compress and Storage company, and the Hernando insurance company, and heavily interested in many other business enterprises in Memphis and the South.

Board of directors of the Union and Planter’s Bank and Trust company met in special session Monday morning to take action in regard to the death of Mr. Noland Fontaine, who had, for many years been closely identified with the success of this institution, as one of it’s directors.

A handsome floral tribute was sent, and the following member of the board were selected as honorary pall bearers: G.T. Fitzburgh, F.M. Norfleet, J.M. Dockery, W.C. Early, Harry Cohn, R.L. Jones.

A committee, consisting of F.M. Norfleet, John R. Pepper and J.M. Dockery was appointed to draft appropriate resolutions in memory of Mr. Fontaine.

In addition to the honorary pall-bearers, practically all of the directors attended the funeral services in a body.

Press Semitar

September 16, 1912

Chopin - Marsz Pogrzebowy / funeral march

Here's something that I just had to post. The next two weekends should bring a flurry of activity from both worldly and otherworldly. And, of course we have a soundtrack that is both beautifully macabre and oddly familiar to "lingering" souls of the mansion.

September is the month most commonly associated with the yellow fever epidemic of 1878 for most "Memphis history buffs". It was reported that nearly 200 Memphians died daily, having lost to "the plague" during this fateful month. Accounts of the chapel bell at Elmwood Cemetery rang day in and day out...nonstop.

September was also a mournful month for the Fontaine family. Three members of the family died in the mansion, though years apart, during this month. Interment in the Fontaine family plot, #266 Miller Circle, Elmwood Cemetery.

Seward Fontaine (11 mo) September 27, 1886

Mr. Noland Fontaine (72) September 16, 1912

Mr. Elliott Fontaine (34) September 26, 1918

 

A Different Light

Here's the chance to see the WF like it's never been presented before!  I've posted many images here on the blog from the late afternoon and evening, always commenting that it's something that "can't be explained".  The light changes everything...the mood of the entire mansion changes!  Especially now, with the current mourning exhibit on display...a sense of mystery and the unknown.  Magical moments of light and shadow...only to be seen.  Deep details are enhanced and the air becomes very still.  I invite you to join us for this special opportunity!  A charming "repast" reception for local photographer Karen Gainey Auburger (whose image below is an example of how she captures the odd light from the port hole windows).  This image was taken from her personal collection and will not be featured in the show...I just liked it!

“Mourning Memphis” Twilight Tour

Friday, September 16

7-10PM

A special "after hours" tour inside the WF. Dimmed lamps and veiled mirrors will greet guests for an enchanted evening fit for the most mournful. Highlighting “Mourning Memphis”, exhibit of 19th century mourning customs currently on display through November 6. A charming “repast” reception complete with grim period readings and beautifully dark “Elmwood Cemetery” images on display by local photographer

Karen Gainey Auburger in the cellar to end the evening.

Suggested donation: $15

Please RSVP via facebook or by calling the museum 901-526-1469

Events and Exhibitions 2011-2012

Here's what we have planned at the WF for this membership year!  We're presenting our signature events with a "twist" and reviving the past in a brand new way!  Be sure to put these dates on your calendar and check for updates via facebook and here on the Daily Reminder.

Mourning Memphis

August 12 - November 6, 2011
Currently set
Featuring: mourning ritual and fashion, yellow fever 1878

Discover Memphis Day
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Buy one/ get one half off admission

Twilight Tour
7PM Friday, September 16, 2011
Admission: $15 (ages 18 +)

Victorian Village Home Tour
11PM-4PM Saturday, October 22, 2011
Volunteers and docents needed

Haunted Happenings
6PM Friday, October 28, 2011
Admission: $10 (ages 10 +)
Partnering with paranormal groups
Volunteers and docents needed

Victorian Yuletide (140th Anniversary)
November 16, 2011 - January 8, 2012
Set up: November 14-15 from 10AM-4PM
Featuring: Mollie’s Wedding and Yuletide traditions

Nouveau Nuptials
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Exclusive bridal event with the best of Memphis’ bridal and event specialists

Victorian Romance
January 18 - March 11, 2012
Set up: January 16-17
Featuring: silver collection, chocolat pots, and valentines

A Sweet Serenade
6:30 PM Saturday, February 11, 2012
Admission: $35
Luna Nova concert in ballroom
Chocolate reception in root cellar

Spring Awakenings
March 21 - May 20, 2012
Set up: March 19-20
Featuring: light textiles, christening gowns, springtime and Easter ephemera

Springtime in Victorian Village
2 - 4 PM Saturday, March 31, 2012
Admission: Free (ages 10 -)
Volunteers needed for Egg Hunt

Speakeasy
7 PM Saturday, March 31, 2012
Admission: $20 (ages 18 +)
2nd annual spring fundraiser
Volunteers needed for admissions and hosting

Southern Summers
June 6 - August 5, 2012
Set up: June 4-5

Junebugs and Juleps
7-11 PM Saturday, June 2, 2012
2nd annual summer fundraiser
Admission: $25 single, $40 couple, $200 table of 8 (ages 18 +)
Volunteers needed for admission and hosting

Afternoons in the WF

I've probably mentioned that the light is always changing at the WF.  Especially in the late afternoons.  Now, with "Mourning Memphis" set, everything has an almost magical shadow.  It's something that's hidden...even by the camera...one has to see and experience this personally.  The experience is "extra sensory"...the eyes open wider through the dim light and shadows, sound almost modifies to complete silence, and everything just feels "different".  Here's a few images that really look better by the naked eye than captured by camera.

This Parisian incense burner sits on a marble top occasional table in the large parlor.  Note the background, though out of focus, there is a definite change of light and shadow.  And the camera presents a brighter image...it was actually very dark in the room.

Reflections also play a large part in how things look.  Reflections of objects, furniture, and light are manipulated and almost haunting, if caught off guard.  I adore this time of day at the WF...it's magical.

Uncovering the Past: George Hunzinger Chair

There are, on occasion, that I don't have an answer to give our guests.  While on tour a very nice New Jersey lady the other day she asked about an occasional chair in the Canton room on the second floor.  I told her I would gladly do some research and get back with her about the piece.  The best resource was a book that Barry R. Harwood wrote...The Furniture of George Hunzinger: Invention and Innovation in Nineteenth-Century America. Brooklyn, New York: Brooklyn Museum of Art, 1997. 168 pp.; 10 color and 189 bw illus., bibliography, index. $29.95. For the sake of accuracy, I used passages from a piece written by Milo M. Naeve, Field-McCormick, Curator Emeritus of American Arts, Art Institute of Chicago. So, here you are ma'am...

"George Jakob Hunzinger (1835–1898) gradually has gained recognition as being among those New Yorkers of the late nineteenth century whose furniture was innovative in construction and significant in design."

"...Success rested on “fancy” chairs, folding chairs, platform rockers, and lounge chairs as accents to other domestic furniture. To an unknown degree, Hunzinger offered tables and suites of chairs in different sizes, settees, and daybeds. No furniture can be identified with patents for extension dining tables, folding beds, and chair-tables, although a table combined with chairs and a game table with a revolving top are rare survivals from other patents. Analysis of all of these sources leads to Harwood’s conclusion that Hunzinger ingeniously manipulated elements of form, decoration, finish, and upholstery for a wide range of variations and budgets."

"Hunzinger’s simple furniture offers similarities in design to midtwentieth-century modernism."

"Harwood’s book is a significant record of Hunzinger’s unique engineering and original designs. His taste, as the exhibition demonstrated and the book reveals through selected examples, influenced his contemporaries. Harwood’s new perspective on Hunzinger will not soon be dated. His research is thorough, and his analysis of it is perceptive."

After reading over a few pieces, this one was the best...written for the museum exhibition, of course.  By the books description, it's definitely going to be on the list to read during the winter!  Please, contact the museum to find the book (it's a museums passion, to the core)



A New Season

It's been an incredibly long, dry spell here on the blog.  However, we finally composed the new season of events and exhibitions.  The WF season usually begins in August.  So, we arehaving an ice cream social to get things started with a BANG!!!  An ice cream social brings to mind one of those festivities best suited for jovial mid summer.  Which, may clash a little with the current state of the WF.  Because we have started a new tradition of launching the season with the most somber of tributes...Victorian mourning and yellow fever! The entire mansion seems draped with black veils and is a bit gloomy..(it says, " Throw some dirt on me!")  So, we make lemonade (or perhaps lemon sherbet) out of lemons.  That's just how we roll at the WF.

We'll be announcing everything that will be going on and bragging about the success of this past season!  LOTS to talk about and LOTS of ice cream will be served up!  The social is 2-4PM and is FREE!!!  We originally had Andrea Cowart scheduled to show off her beautiful photography, but after scheduling conflicts she had to postpone until another time.  So, I will be in the museum today brewing up a plan for a mini exhibition from the museum's permanent collection.  Of course, the museum will be open for members (both old and new) to tour.  It's always a great time to catch up with old friends and see the museum in a different light!

I'll post the new season after the social on Sunday with some pictures from the event, too!  Just in case you miss it, you'll get to kick yourself in the pants for not being there.  (So, join us!)

Afternoons in the WF

If anyone has ever met and talked with me for less than five minutes, it's perfectly clear that I have a true passion for the WF.  I often call it my "home away from home" because I feel absolutely calm and safe inside.  My favorite chosen day to serve as docent is Sunday.  As I turn the lights at the close of the day, I always have my camera in tow.  I snap images of things that really grab my attention.  Sometimes, I've found that I have multiple photos of the same thing. 

I made mention yesterday to Mrs. Joan, surrogat grandmother, that the light seemed different.  We agreed that the autumn season is upon us, for sure.  I think it's the light (or lack of) that intriques me...it's always different.  I admire details differently when there is unique light and shadows.  Granted, I'm never going to get rich like my photographer friends Monty, Andrea, or Amanda...but, the images make me happy.  Most turn out a little blurry, but these details need to be seen and appreciated in person.  (Maybe a twilight tour??) 

The Mourning Memphis exhibition is nearly complete and the ambiance has definitely changed, for the darker, giving me a chill when I walk through the halls of the WF in the late afternoon.  It's my favorite time of the year...and I think the WF reflects the deep respect and profound love we all share for her.



Cotton Museum at Memphis Cotton Exchange Photostory

Downtown Museum Day

Memphis’ First Downtown Museum Day to Take Place on September 10


PRESS RELEASE
August 9, 2011

Memphis, TN – The first annual Downtown Museum Day will take place in Memphis on Saturday, September 10, 2011 with eleven local museums and attractions participating by offering free or half-price admission. The event is being hosted by Discover Memphis, a newly created collective of downtown museums and attractions.

The all-day event offers Tennessee residents the opportunity to visit their community museums – and to enjoy and share in their own heritage – for a significantly reduced cost. The committee organizing the event hopes to encourage residents to take advantage of their hometown culture and bolster awareness of the role of museums in Memphis.

“We want Downtown Museum Day to become a Memphis cultural tradition, inviting all members of our community to experience the Bluff City’s incredible wealth of history, art and music at numerous participating museums at reduced or no cost,” says co-organizer Anna Mullins, Executive Director of the Cotton Museum.

In addition to free or discounted admission, many participating museums and attractions (listed below) are offering unique programs and special tours for the day. Visitors should check each attraction’s website for hours and unique offerings.

“The day is intended to emphasize the lasting impact museums have on their communities and provide new opportunities for the community to participate in the wide-ranging programs that our museums and attractions offer,” adds Kimberly McCollum, Executive Director of Elmwood Cemetery.

For more information about Downtown Museum Day, visit our facebook page at facebook.com/downtownmuseumday, email us at downtownmuseumday [at] gmail [dot] com">downtownmuseumday@gmail.com or call Anna Mullins at 901.857.2335.

Downtown Museum Day Participants
Discounts are available to all Tennessee residents. Check each attraction’s webpage for hours and additional information.

Belz Museum of Asian and Judaic Art
Cotton Museum
Elmwood Cemetery
Fire Museum of Memphis
Jimmy Ogle Tours
    Free City Tours
    10:00 a.m. Union Avenue Manhole Cover & History Tour (begins at the Cotton Museum)
    11:30 a.m. Cotton Row (begins at the Cotton Museum)
    1:00 p.m. The Mississippi River (begins at Confederate Park)
    3:00 p.m. Court Square & Surroundings
Mississippi River Museum at Mud Island River Park
National Civil Rights Museum
National Ornamental Metal Museum
Stax Museum of American Soul Music
Sun Studio
Woodruff-Fontaine House

Southern Summers: Summer Scavenger Hunt

The final item included in the scavenger hunt is this...Boulle clock with tortoise shell and brass inlay on the case, ormulu mounts.  Andre Charles Boulle, chief designer of baroque furniture, which bears the hallmark of the Louis XIV style, perfected the art of tortoise shell and brass veneer on cabinet and clock pieces to such a fine degree that such work bears his name today!  All work executed by Boulle himself is in museums, however this Boulle-esque cloak is fine and rare.  The clock rests on the entry hall credenza (Second Empire...between 1870-1880) ebonized with brass and gilt trim.  And as with the sands of the hour glass, time has come to a finish on "Southern Summers" at the WF.  We proudly announce the opening of "Mourning Memphis" coming August 17th!

Southern Summers: Summer Scavenger Hunt

The sands of TIME are slipping into another season and with that said, this is our last item of the hunt!  This item will tie in nicely with the next exhibition, "Mourning Memphis"...when the hands of TIME stop to mourn our heroes, heroines, and martyrs of the tragic yellow fever epidemic of 1878.