Harzfeld's

Art Signs - Achelous and Hercules

2011-11-07T19:12:00.003-06:00

Smithsonian American Art Museum's Art Signs - Achelous and Hercules - A video allowing hearing and deaf viewers to learn about Benton's mural for Harzfeld's.

Benton Illustrations at the Library

2011-10-16T18:11:00.002-05:00

Mark Twain and Tom Benton: Pictures, Prose and Song
is an exhibit featuring several original Benton illustrations for a limited edition of The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, including classic scenes (such as the white-washing con and the courting of Becky Thatcher) that capture the spontaneity, humor, and fun in Twain’s prose. Also featured are original illustrations Benton drew for Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and Twain’s autobiographical Life on the Mississippi – all of them among Missouri’s greatest artistic treasures. The exhibit, at the beautiful Kansas City Public Library at 14 W. 10th Street, a couple blocks north of the former Harzfeld's downtown location, will continue through October 30.

After the exhibit make sure to visit Tom's Home & Studio

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Michael Kors Comes to the Plaza Again

2011-09-30T07:53:00.003-05:00

Designer Michael Kors recently opened a location on the Country Club Plaza in Kansas City. It is in a portion of what was recently the Eddie Bauer store. Below is a 1984 invitation to an in person appearance by the designer on the second floor of Harzfelds on the Plaza, one block west of the new Michael Kors.

Soon a new restaurant will occupy the space south of Michael Kors. Seasons 52 will maintain the original architecture of the site after some persuasion by Kansas Citians, media and social networks.

Welcome to Kansas City!

The King of Cut-Rate

2011-09-13T22:06:00.001-05:00

This new release from Kansas City Star Books tells the story of Isaac and Michael Katz, who changed forever our definition of drug store. You can pre-order now from thekansascitystore.com..

Grace Marie Uhlenhop Hoch

2011-09-07T07:10:00.000-05:00

Our sympathies to the family and friends of Grace Marie Uhlenhop Hoch, a Harzfeld's associate.

Adorn 2011

2011-09-07T07:01:00.001-05:00

Visit harvestballsociety.org for information on Adorn 2011 organized by the Harvest Ball Society. It takes place this Saturday, Sept. 10 and features a fashion show, brunch and a look back at fashion history by The Historic Garment District Museum of Kansas City.

1967 Wedding Dress

2011-07-03T14:45:00.001-05:00

This white silk wedding dress with detachable train and matching veil, was purchased at Harzfeld's and worn by Cindy Heinz at her wedding to James Kemme. The bridesmaids dress, a peacock blue silk dress with matching pillbox hat, was worn by her niece, Debra Vaughn. The dresses were on display at Union Station in conjunction with the exhibit Diana, A Celebration.

Narration by Lisa Shockley, Curatorial Specialist, Union Station/Kansas City Museum. Lisa recently confirmed that the bridesmaid's dress was also from Harzfeld's.

Kansas City Christmas 1959

2011-07-01T22:43:00.002-05:00

Here's a home movie from YouTube... wait for it.. two minutes in..

Katz Drug Book

2011-05-31T19:17:00.001-05:00

We're excited to share that Steve Katz is working with The Kansas City Star on a book documenting the history of the Katz Drug Stores. It will have wonderful stories of this iconic chain of stores that were headquartered in Kansas City. The Kansas City Star requests any Katz Drug memories you would like to share.

Above: vintage matchbook

Flood Disaster by Benton Sells

2011-05-19T21:26:00.000-05:00

Today, an important work by Thomas Hart Benton sold at Sotheby's for $1,874,500.

Sotheby's Listing

AP Story from The Kansas City Star

Pre-Auction article from The Kansas City Star

Baseball Exhibit at Harzfeld's Building

2011-04-07T06:17:00.004-05:00

On Thursday, April 14 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. the Kansas City Baseball Historical Society will unveil an exhibit of baseball memorabilia including uniforms, equipment, photos and a wide array of baseball collectibles at 1101 Main Street (ground floor of Town Pavilion). Items from the Kansas City Athletics, Royals, Monarchs, Blues and Major League Baseball will be displayed including autographed items of Babe Ruth and other Hall of Famers. A silent auction will be held for various Kansas City baseball memorabilia, and former Kansas City baseball players are expected to attend. No cost for members of the KCBHS, non-members are invited for a minimum donation of $10, or they may join the KCBHS at the event. Proceeds will go to the Kansas City Athletics Annual Reunion in July. Questions, call 913-961-0929 or visit Kansascitybaseballhistoricalsociety.com

With Harzfeld's connection to the very early carrier of a famous Kansas City ballplayer, it will be an apropos exhibit. Here's an excerpt from Chapter 2 of Harzfelds: A Brief History.

Sieg (Harzfeld) had a number of passions that fulfilled his desire “to work to live.” Sieg sponsored a baseball team by the name of, what else, “The Parisian Cloak Companys” in the City Junior League. Other teams in their leaugue were the Garfields, Bell Telephone Companys, Hyde Parks, C. L. Richmonds, Elmhursts, Olive Athletics, and Linwoods (replacing the Warf Rats). There were dozens of amateur teams including the Coca-Colas, Montgomery Wards, Penn Valley Parks, Kansas City Arts, Sunflowers, Paseo Blues, Rockhill Blues, Baby Elephants, Troost Avenue Athletics, Hoo-hoo Hitters, and the Justrites.

When Sieg’s friend Louis Stengel bragged to him about his son Charley’s sporting ability, he was drafted into “The Parisians” as early as 1907. Years prior, Sieg may have seen the young Charley spraying water on the dirt streets of Kansas City. It was a practice of the day for retailers such as The Parisian to contract with individuals to spray down dirt streets with water to help control the clouds of dust kicked up by horses, wagons and foot traffic. Louis was in charge of arranging these contracts. Charley tried his hand at sprinkling, but he had other ambitions, such as picking up a game of baseball in open lots around town or taking in a vaudeville show. Charley later attended Central High School, just blocks east of Harzfeld’s. Sieg paid him, as he did all the players, $1.50 per game. This was Stengel’s first taste of “professional” ball.

Years later, when drafted by the Brooklyn Dodgers, while playing minor league ball in Montgomery, Alabama, Charley was given the name “Casey” in honor of his hometown. He went on to play major league ball with the Dodgers, Pittsburgh Pirates, Philadelphia Phillies, New York Giants and the Boston Braves. He played in three World Series, but his greatest success came later as a manager. Casey led the New York Yankees to win 10 pennants in 12 years.

In 1955, Casey returned to Kansas City while managing the Yankees against Kansas City’s new entry into the major leagues, The A’s. Stengel’s stylish wife, Edna, was presented with a bottle of French perfume from Harzfeld’s in honor of his early relationship with the Kansas City specialty store.

Other Exhibits in Kansas City

Diana, through June 12 - A Celebration (at Union Station)

Monet's Water Lilies, open to everyone this coming weekend through August 7 (at The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art)

NBC Action News, Benton Home

2011-04-07T05:42:00.002-05:00

This is from late last year... His birthday is April 15.

Thomas Hart Benton Home and Studio Historical Site

Niki de Saint Phalle

2011-01-16T21:06:00.001-06:00

Niki de Saint Phalle (1930–2002) was a fashion model appearing in Vogue and Life. She studied acting, but soon found her passions were in the visual arts where she created paintings and sculpture. In 1982, she created a perfume bearing her name. The bottle was topped off by a sculpture of intertwined snakes. The fragrance had notes of fresh and green forest, combined with citrus.

Harzfeld's offered the fragrance and these buttons were worn to promote the scent.

Today's Links

The Kansas City Rock History Project

The Concrete Catwalk

Kansas City History - Part 1 of 3

The Vintage Perfume Vault

Holiday Windows on Main Concludes

2011-01-03T21:24:00.005-06:00

The votes were compiled and the winning windows were created by Katie Danner and Sara Cramer for Lattéland and second prize went to Em Byerly and Katie Larson's windows for Cosentinos. Third place went to Peregrine Honig and Danielle Meister's windows for AMC Mainstreet 6. For more details, go to kcstar.com.

Here is one of the faceted creations that Artist/Jewelry Designer Cheryl Eve Acosta made for The Polished Edge at 1360 Main.

Today's Links

Vivian Maier, Late Chicago Street Photographer
Vivian Maier Blog

catsinsinks.com

Harzfeld's Comment

2011-01-03T21:03:00.004-06:00

In Remembrance

2011-01-03T09:27:00.000-06:00

Our sympathies go to the family and friends of Helen B. Hagel, who worked for Harzfeld's and passed away on Tuesday, December 14, 2010.

Helen B. Hagel

A Holiday Window on Main circa 1975

2010-12-20T07:49:00.001-06:00

This wonderful picture of a downtown Harzfeld's window came from Darlene Cowherd, who was part of the display department in the 1970s. The doilies on the table were created by her aunt. More of her photos to come.

Holiday Windows on Main - Zafar

2010-12-18T05:34:00.000-06:00

Artist Jessica Rogers created windows for Zafar at 1370 Main as part of Holiday Windows on Main.

Holiday Windows on Main - JoS. A. Bank

2010-12-16T17:22:00.000-06:00

Artist Jennifer Elliot created a nostalgic window display featuring vintage, embellished and illuminated photos of downtown Kansas City for JoS. A. Bank at 1320 Main as part of Holiday Windows on Main.

Holiday Windows on Main - The Midland

2010-12-15T21:08:00.001-06:00

Artists Lori Bury and Carmen Moreno created windows for The Midland at 1228 Main as part of Holiday Windows on Main.

Holiday Windows on Main - "The Garment District"

2010-12-15T20:42:00.001-06:00

Artist Margaret Shelby designed a window for "The Garment District" boutique - bar - collective at 1350 Main as part of Holiday Windows on Main.

Holiday Windows on Main - Fran's

2010-12-15T12:05:00.001-06:00

Artist Kati Toivanen created windows for Fran's at 11 E. 14th Street as part of Holiday Windows on Main.

To the right is a detail with alternating red and white tissue and crystals.

Holiday Windows on Main - Polished

2010-12-14T21:30:00.003-06:00

Artist/Photographer Arielle Zarr dressed a window for Polished Nail Salon at 1221 Main as part of Holiday Windows on Main. This was a challenge to photograph, so our apologies to Arielle.

See actual image featured in window here.

Holiday Windows on Main - Lattéland

2010-12-14T07:56:00.002-06:00

Artists Katie Danner and Sara Cramer created windows for Lattéland at 1201 Main as part of Holiday Windows on Main. Here are some details from the windows.

Holiday Windows on Main - Envolve

2010-12-14T07:08:00.002-06:00

Artist Betsy Timmer dressed the front window for Envolve on Main as part of Holiday Windows on Main. Here are some details from the windows.

Drawings given to Nelson-Atkins

2010-12-12T15:27:00.002-06:00

Richard Rees honors his late wife, Janet, by donating drawings (studies for the Harzfeld's mural) by Thomas Hart Benton to the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.

Holiday Windows on Main - Cosentinos

2010-12-12T11:28:00.004-06:00

Artists Em Byerly and Katie Larson dressed windows for Cosentinos on Main as part of Holiday Windows on Main. Here are some details from the windows.

Today's Links

909.myaptportal.com

LiroasCreativeSewing.com

Body Temple Fitness

Holiday Windows on Main - MeMa’s Bakery

2010-12-11T07:34:00.005-06:00

Artist Nicholas Naughton created a window for the MeMa's Bakery at 1211 Main as part of Holiday Windows on Main. Here are some details from the window.

Downtown gets decked out up for holidays from The Kansas City Star

Holiday Windows on Main - AMC Mainstreet 6

2010-12-10T07:30:00.009-06:00

Artists Peregrin Honig and Danielle Meister dressed a window for AMC Mainstreet 6 titled "Snow and Butterflies" for Holiday Windows on Main. Below are details from the window.

Today's Links

The Brookside Story by LaDene Morton
Book Signing, Barnes & Noble - Plaza
Saturday, December 11, Noon to 2 p.m.

Rock N Fashion, Saturday, Dec. 11

Franzke Violins

Eva Zeisel Forum

Adele Simpson at Fashion Encyclopedia

Best Dressed Store Window, 1915

2010-12-07T20:37:00.005-06:00

A few weeks ago we happened by a wonderful blog that featured an amazing trophy from the collection of Lynn, the owner of the Paris Hotel Boutique in San Francisco.

Lynn's April 4, 2009 post of a few of my Favorite Things... included an image of the award from The Kansas City Post. It was given to Harzfeld's, surprisingly still being referred to as "The Parisian Cloak Company," for best dressed store window during the United Fashion Show in 1915.

Now, forward 95 years, you can vote for the best dressed window in downtown Kansas City through Holiday Windows on Main.

See a beautiful slideshow of Holiday Windows on Main at wheatphotography.com.

Benton Mural Sketches Follow-up Article

2010-12-07T12:03:00.000-06:00

Bentons fetch a bounty by Kevin Collison for The Kansas City Star

Benton Mural Sketches Sold at Auction

2010-12-06T20:20:00.005-06:00

We attended the auction at Dirk Soulis Auctions in Lone Jack on Saturday. It was great to see friends that were in attendance and to view the wonderful studies for the Harzfeld's mural, Achelous & Hercules by Thomas Hart Benton. We're excited for the high bidders and will share more details on the auction soon.

On Friday, Hidden traces of Benton at work emerge at last, a fantastic article by Kevin Collison, appeared on the front page of The Kansas City Star.

Simonson Discusses Paris of the Plains

2010-12-05T19:13:00.007-06:00

Tuesday, December 7, 6 p.m. Author Event at National Archives by John Simonson on his book, Paris of the Plains: Kansas City from Doughboys to Expressways

National Archives at Kansas City, 400 West Pershing Road, Kansas City, MO

Today's Links

Broadcast of John Simonson on the December 3 Walt Bodine Show

KC Modern Blog

Holiday Windows on Main - Indie Bar

2010-11-25T20:53:00.001-06:00

Artist Luke Rocha created a window for the Indie Bar at 1228 Main as part of Holiday Windows on Main. Here are some details from the window.

In Remembrance

2010-11-22T07:23:00.000-06:00

Our sympathies go to the families and friends of Mary Jo Spake, who worked for Harzfeld's and passed away recently.

Mary Jo Spake

Newly Discovered Mural Sketches at Auction!

2010-11-20T14:11:00.007-06:00

Today we received a postcard from Dirk Soulis Auctions in Lone Jack, Missouri. We've been to their great auctions in the past and they helped lead us to our Harzfeld's display cabinet.

The postcard announces their Winter Fine Arts Auction, which features eleven sketches for the Thomas Hart Benton mural commissioned by Harzfeld's in 1946, Achelous & Hercules! According to the auction site, the sketches are from the estate of our late friend and fashion illustrator for Harzfeld's, Patricia George.

Details on the December 4 auction can be found here. The sketches can be seen in lots 88 through 99 in the online auction catalog.

Holiday Windows on Main - Santa

2010-11-19T07:43:00.002-06:00

We'll be posting images of the new window displays in downtown Kansas City. This one was done for Star 102 FM, one of the sponsors. Designer currently unknown. More on the locations and artists soon.

Holiday Windows on Main

2010-11-18T06:34:00.003-06:00

Tonight at 5 p.m. holiday windows designed by local artists will be unveiled one by one in the Power and Light District, downtown Kansas City. Learn more at kcstar.com and at MetroWireKc. Vote for your favorite. The windows will be on display through January 2, 2011.

In Rememberance

2010-11-17T21:09:00.000-06:00

Our sympathies go to the families and friends of Alice Birk Granger, who worked for Harzfeld's and passed away recently.

Alice Birk Granger

The Brookside Story

2010-11-14T04:44:00.013-06:00

We're excited this new book by LaDene Morton is available. We met LaDene while at Urban Mining this past summer. I think she recognized Michele as she was carrying around her find of a green and white striped hat box. She was very enthusiastic about her project, which is now realized as The Brookside Story, Shops of Every Necessary Character, published by The History Press. Congratulations LaDene! We're looking forward to learning about the history of this Kansas City shopping district.

Today's Links

Wilbur Niewald
Niewald has three paintings on display as part of the group exhibition The Figure at the Leedy-Voulkos Art Center through Feb 15, 2011.

Architecture A-Z: M is for McKecknie and more
Article from kcstar.com on architect of the Petticoat Lane Harzfeld's building

Rockhurst University Press
Rockhurst University: The First 100 Years is now available.

Ball Gowns from Yesteryear

2010-11-13T14:10:00.001-06:00

Discover classic ball gowns from yesteryear at the Kansas City Museum's Community Curator Lecture Tuesday, November 16 at Union Station. The Independent senior research editor Heather Paxton will explore past Kansas City Jewel Ball gowns in the Museum’s collection. The collection includes ball gowns worn by former chair women of the Jewel Ball, including high end dresses worn by notable chairwomen Enid Kemper and Clara Hockaday.

Tuesday, November 16, 6 p.m.
Union Station, 30 W. Pershing Rd.
(816) 483-8300
Free

Paris of the Plains

2010-11-05T12:33:00.003-05:00

Congratualations to fellow blogger and author John Simonson on the release of his book, Paris of the Plains, through The History Press. Check out the cover! That's Petticoat Lane and Harzfeld's on the right; how cool!

Visit John's blog at paris-of-the-plains.blogspot.com

In Remembrance

2010-10-13T04:55:00.004-05:00

Our sympathies go to the families and friends of these two ladies, who worked for Harzfeld's and passed away recently.

Isabelle Jean White

Margie Morris Bixby

American Woman

2010-08-13T06:55:00.005-05:00

American Woman: Fashioning a National Identity is about to close (through Aug. 15) at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, but you can read about the exhibit and watch a video at their site, metmuseum.org.

Joe attended David Jackson's talk on Kansas City Chronicles: An Up-to-Date History at the National Archives of Kansas City last night. It was a wonderful talk to a full house. The book's a great read, including his article on Harzfeld's, paired with a vintage window display photo from the collection of the Jackson County Historical Society!

Our friend Rusty gave us this wonderful box from Harzfeld's. The logo, a variation with open letter kerning, dates from the late '40s/'50s.

Steve Sitton of the Thomas Hart Benton Home Historic Site recently shared this article from the Joplin Globe on a lost 1972 film interview of the artist by the late KODE-TV newsman Bob Phillips. We hope to see the footage someday.

Congratulations to Kansas City Artist, Peregrine Honig, for coming in second on Bravo TV's Work of Art. She's an amazing creative talent.

Today's Links

American Pickers was just realeased on DVD, and it looks like you can watch episodes online. We just watched the first season; great fun!

History Detectives

Harzfeld & Goodman, Cloaks and Dolmans

2010-07-28T06:56:00.003-05:00

This die-cut, folding trade card dates from 1880 to 1883.

Albert Harzfeld, father of Sig Harzfeld, founder of Harzfeld's specialty store, was in partnership with Louis Goodman. J. F. Jordan must have been a representative / salesman for the firm.

The Madison St. address may be difficult to pinpoint since street numbering in Chicago was revised in 1908.

Goodman left the partnership in 1883. Samual Friend joined Harzfeld along with E. (possibly Edward) Harzfeld to carry on the firm which manufactured its own garments and employed between 80 and 100. By 1884, it moved to 210 Monroe Street.

Many of these details came from the Chicago Daily Tribune of the time.

Harzfeld & Goodman

2010-07-26T23:27:00.000-05:00

We recently acquired our earliest Harzfeld's related item. Here's the front side. The reverse and more details on Wednesday.

Kansas City Chronicles Just Released

2010-07-22T22:13:00.004-05:00

Hot off the press! Get your copy of Kansas City Chronicles: An Up-to-Date History by David W. Jackson (Charleston, SC: The History Press, 2010) through the Jackson County Historical Society’s virtual bookshop.

Also, mark your calendars for the debut presentation and book signing at the National Archives of Kansas City (400 W Pershing, Kansas City, MO) on Thursday, August 12, 2010 (6 p.m. reception; 6:30 presentation).

j. m. rees: quasi-objects of mental kind

2010-06-10T07:11:00.002-05:00

quasi-objects of mental kind
(past event)
through June 27, 2010
The Epsten Gallery at Village Shalom

Happy 160th KC!

2010-06-03T19:48:00.001-05:00

Kansas City celebrates 160 years with a look back at history (from KSHB TV)

Today's Links

Petticoat Lane may look like three lanes, but traffic should remain in two (from kansascity.com)

Glacé Artisan Ice Cream

Edward Steichen – In High Fashion

Realities Beyond Petticoat Lane (from Paris of the Plains)

Thimble Thursday Lunchtime Concert Series

2010-06-03T19:46:00.000-05:00

The 8th Annual Garment District “Thimble Thursday” Lunchtime Concert Series features 45-minute performances by various bands.

Location: Garment District Park, 8th & Bank Street (one block west of Broadway) – Kansas City, MO

Remaining Dates: June 10, 17, & 24

In Rememberance - May 2010

2010-06-03T06:41:00.001-05:00

We send our sympathies to the friends and families of these two Harzfeld's associates who passed away in May.

Teresa Vela Espinosa

Janelle Taylor Patterson

Henry Adams: Tom and Jack

2010-05-25T10:15:00.005-05:00

Henry Adams provides new insights into two of the greatest artists of the 20th century when he presents Tom and Jack: The Intertwined Lives of Thomas Hart Benton and Jackson Pollock.

(past event) Tuesday, May 25
Program: 6:30 p.m.
Kansas City Central Library, 14 W. 10th St.

The Hats of Kansas City

2010-05-19T10:18:00.004-05:00

(past event)

Ten Day Wine Close Out

2010-05-19T08:10:00.006-05:00

This ad appeared in the October 9, 1896 issue of the Kansas City Star. Siegmund Harzfeld liquidated the inventory of the California Wine Company at 603 Delaware. This is the time of the temperance movement. In 1881, Kansas outlawed the sale of alcohol. In 1901, five years after the Sieg's wine sale, Carrie Nation smashed saloon windows on 12th Street in Kansas City, Missouri. The Parisian Cloak Company was just a couple store fronts away on Main.

In Remembrance

2010-05-02T06:57:00.004-05:00

Our sympathies go to the families and friends of these ladies, who each worked for Harzfeld's and passed away in April.

Frances Margaret (Frankie) Schoneman

Betty Margaret Reynolds

Lillian "Libby" Shankman

Fresh & Clean

2010-04-30T03:02:00.142-05:00

These vintage Harzfeld's branded soaps made in England were found at a recent K.C. Antiques and Collectibles Show.

"What soap is to the body, laughter is to the soul." - Yiddish Proverb

Finally, we have a fresh post. Sorry that it's been a while, things have been pretty busy.

We had a great time this past Saturday. Tillie, a resident at The Atriums, invited us to a lunch and to talk. She also invited a number of fellow former employees of Harzfeld's to the lunch where there was continuous reminiscing and laughter. A number of items where brought in to share, some of which we'll post on the blog in the coming days.

Tillie and friends at luncheon

We're looking forward to attending Fashion for a Cause, this Sunday. It's a benefit for Women's Health Programs at Truman Medical Center (TMC).

Save the date, May 25, for a talk by Historic Garment District's Ann Brownfield. She will share about Kansas City Hats at the Kansas City Museum for their Community Curator series.

We're excited and grateful to have our book, Harzfelds: A Brief History, highlighted in the May issue of KC Magazine.

Soap Links
Indigo Wild
Natural Soap Company
Sunrise Soap
cleanupsoap
Metaphor Organic

Laughter Links
This Sunday is World Laughter Day!
Thanks to Creative Instigation for making us aware of
The Levity Project post on World Laughter Day.
timconway.com
The Daily Show
Colbert Nation

Other Links
Johnny Cupcakes
Fred and Friends
Edward Steichen—In High Fashion: The Condé Nast Years 1923-1937 at The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, May 15 — July 25

Sweet Dreams

2010-04-06T21:00:00.005-05:00

We're always excited to see new items related to Harzfeld's coming to the surface. We were amazed when this bedding ensemble, entirely covered with dozens and dozens of Harzfeld's labels, was shared at our talk at the downtown Kansas City Library. The majority of the labels are from the last four years of the store. Unfortunately our photos didn't turn out all that great, so you'll have to imagine the impact of all the repeated pattern.

The owners, Dale and Jeanie shared a legend that went along with the bedding. The set was created by a husband for his wife of ailing heath who was a loyal customer of the store. The set includes a duvet, pillow cases, pillows and a wall hanging. It was all graphically bold and great fun to see!

Radio and Ragtime

2010-03-31T06:00:00.008-05:00

We appreciate the interest in our recent events. We have a good deal of follow up to do and hope you'll be patient with us in this matter. This past week has been pretty busy for us at our respective jobs, so we haven't posted for a bit. We always welcome your emails at info@harzfelds.com.

First thanks to Charles and Carol at KKFI, 90.1 FM. It was fun to experience being on air. They're great hosts. Make sure you tune in on Fridays at noon for Anything Goes.

The event at the Central Kansas City Public Library was a blast. We appreciate the staff and especially those in the Missouri Valley Room for past research assistance and hosting the event. Mary Beveridge organized the event and was great to work with. Chris, who handled the audio/visual and more, made everything come together. Pianist Wally Bradford played a rousing Petticoat Lane Rag to open our talk. The very nice lady for Rainy Day Books set up and made our book available. We had a good crowd and enjoyed hearing stories. Hope to share some of these here, along with an amazing Harzfeld's themed item that an attendee brought in for display.

Photo: Looking south from third floor of Central Kansas City Public Library.The Deardorff Building / Harzfeld's, designed by John McKecknie in 1913, is framed in the center.

Today's Links

Harzfeld's on Facebook

Visit Elgin Park

Downtown Library Event

2010-03-19T19:00:00.003-05:00

(past) We hope you'll attend our talk at the Kansas City Public Library at 14 W. 10th Street on Sunday, March 21 at 2 p.m. Our book will be available for purchase thanks to Rainy Day Books.

Pianist Wally Bradford will open the event with the playing of "Petticoat Lane Rag."

Tune in to Anything Goes

2010-03-19T05:08:00.007-05:00

(past) At noon today we'll be on Anything Goes, hosted by Charles Feruzza and Carol Barta on KKFI 90.1 FM, Kansas City Community Radio. It should be fun, so hope you'll listen in.

More from the Webster House Event

2010-03-17T07:02:00.009-05:00

Here's guest Judy Hubbard and Michele. Judy brought in her wedding photo from 1960; the dress was from Harzfeld's.

Gayle Hutchens of the Webster House coordinated the event. She was very fun to work with. We're grateful to her and the rest of the hospitable Webster House staff for providing such an amazing space for us to present our talk and display the exhibit. Thanks to all for a fun weekend!

Two more fashions from the Historic Garment District Museum. The one on the left is by irene and the one on the right is by Norman Norell.

We had a wonderful lunch at the Webster House, but didn't find time for dessert. Gayle sent us home with a couple slices of the "Hat Box Cake." We know, neither of the box shapes appeared to be for a hat, but Gayle, rightfully, thought the name sounded better. It was delicious with homemade strawbery jam between the layers of cake and creamy frosting. Yum!

Webster House Event

2010-03-16T05:20:00.011-05:00

We had a great time meeting the staff of the Webster House and those attending the event this past weekend.

It started with a cocktail happy hour on Friday evening. Lindsey & Gayle from the Webster House helped create displays for the exhibit that remained on display through Saturday.

This table featured fashion illustration by the late Patricia George. The first three were done for The Independent. In front of the illustrations is a sign from the '80s that we acquired through Arbuckle Sign Company, one of Kansas City's oldest companies still in operation, starting in 1884.

Ann Brownfield of the Historic Garment District Museum provided garments by designers and Kansas City manufacturers carried by Harzfeld's.

Ann and Michele with fashions by Nelly Don, Adrian & Krest.

We had the chance to share some history on Harzfeld's and our book at two talks at 10 and 1 p.m. on Saturday. It was a pleasure to meet attendees including associates from the store. It was also great to see friends that attended.

We have more photos that we'll add to this post tonight.

Today's Links

We hope you'll attend our talk at the Kansas City Public Library at 14 W. 10th Street on Sunday, March 21 at 2 p.m. Our book will be available for purchase thanks to Rainy Day Books.

Webster House Harzfeld's Cake

2010-03-13T06:31:00.008-06:00

This fabulous cake was created by the Pastry Chef, Darcy, at the Webster House. More on the cake, displays and our talk to come soon.

Brandeis Luncheon

2010-03-05T05:44:00.003-06:00

What a great group of ladies. The Kansas City chapter of the Brandeis National Committee brings awareness and help support the Brandeis University Libraries, scholarships and fund medical research. It was an honor for us to meet the group on March 4 at their book and author luncheon. We presented information about our book on Harzfeld's, but learned as much from many ladies who patronized the store and several that worked there.

Today's Links

Saturday, March 13 talk at the Webster House

more details from events post

1959 Ford Galaxie

2010-03-03T17:22:00.008-06:00

Cross-promotion was a common practice for Harzfeld's, from events, films and automobiles. We hope to locate this issue of Harper's Bazaar to provide more details. The label briefly featured is David Crystal.
right: January 1959 issue of Bazaar

Friends at The Archives

2010-03-02T09:00:00.005-06:00

This past Thursday we were honored to talk about our book at the National Archives in Kansas City. What a great staff, facility and resource. Kimberlee did a wonderful job of coordinating and promoting the event. Dee and the staff created a beautiful "just for the evening" display. Peggy at The Kansas City Store located onsite was also a pleasure to work with.

We got to see many friends from UMKC, Rockhurst University, Roeland Park UMC and the KC Modern group. We enjoyed meeting associates and customers of Harzfeld's and heard some great reminiscing. Thanks to all that attended.

Some UMKC Friends Photo: Nona Cady

Photo: Nona Cady

This Thursday we're excited to be presenting at the Kansas City chapter of the Brandeis National Committee's Book and Author Luncheon. More information on our recent events post.

Today's Links

A new collaboration including locally owned boutiques have a new space in the Power and Light District. The Garment District Boutique offers fashions and accessories in a location just two blocks south of where Sieg Harzfeld started the Parisian Cloak Company in the early 1890s. It's exciting to see retail returning to downtown Kansas City.
Article from the Kansas City Business Journal

www.mistygamble.com
Misty Gamble's exhibit, Primping and the Currency of Worth, will run from March 4-April 24 at Sherry Leedy Contemporary Art.

Thanks, Events & Links

2010-02-17T17:51:00.009-06:00

Thanks to Barnes & Noble on the Plaza for hosting a signing back on the 6th. We enjoyed meeting everyone that stopped by.

Please visit our recent Upcoming Events post , which we have been updating with more details. Hope you can make it to one of the events. Make sure to RSVP soon.

Today's Links
We're collectors of Fiesta dinnerware, made by Homer Laughlin China of Newell, West Virginia. News of HLC purchasing Hall China just across the Ohio River, would be an amazing marriage of two historic American companies.
HLC poised to purchase Hall China
City clears way for sale of Hall China

We're grateful to our friend Jonathan who first lead us to The History Press while he was Senior Commissioning Editor/Publisher.
Jonathan Simcosky's stories at north shore art*throb

Evilo Greene in the '20s

2010-02-06T22:59:00.004-06:00

We had the pleasure of meeting with Will and Lois Theilmann. Will's mother, Evilo, modeled for Harzfeld's in the mid-1920s, as in the above photo which appeared in the "brown" pages of the Kansas City Journal Post.

Opal Marie Payne

2010-02-03T05:32:00.007-06:00

Our sympathies to the family and friends of Opal Payne. Her grandson, Ryan, informed us of her passing. She was a long-time lingerie buyer and after retirement, returned to the Corinth store as a manager. Ryan remembers many days as a child riding with his retired grandfather from western Kansas City, KS to the Corinth store to pick up his grandma from work. Opal was 96.

Opal's obtiuary in the Kansas City Star

Upcoming Events

2010-01-30T17:03:00.043-06:00

(past) Saturday, Feb. 6, 1-3 p.m. - Barnes & Noble on the Plaza - book signing

(past) Thursday, Feb. 25, 6:30 p.m. (reception 6 p.m.) - National Archives at Kansas City - lecture and book signing - This event is free and open to the public.

(past) Thursday, March 4, 11:30 a.m. - Brandeis Book and Author Luncheon, Brandeis National Committee Kansas City, Deer Creek Golf Club - A benefit / fund-raising event for the Brandeis University Library.

(past) Saturday, March 13, 10-11:30 a.m. & 1-2:30 p.m. - Webster House - Featuring a display of fashions and ephemera. We'll also share excerpts from our book. To preview the exhibit the Webster House will be hosting a Retro Cocktail Happy Hour on Friday, March 12, 4-6:30 p.m.

(past) Sunday, March 21, 2 p.m. - Kansas City Library - Central Library, 14 W. 10th St., part of the Missouri Valley Speakers Series - lecture and book signing

Today's Links

Edith Head Exhibition - Price Tower - Bartlesville, OK - Jan. 22 - May 16, 2010

Here are two videos showing images from the "recent" past of Kansas City metro area retail.
Metcalf South Memories
Old KC

Winnifred "Beryl" Bauman

2010-01-30T06:04:00.001-06:00

Our sympathies to the family and friends of Winnifred "Beryl" Bauman, a Harzfeld's associate.

Lorene Nichols

2010-01-26T06:57:00.006-06:00

We did not know Lorene, but we learned of her passing from the Kansas City Star. She was a long-time associate of Harzfeld's. Her obituary can be found here.

We found this entry in the 1975 25 year club program.

Our sympathies go to her family and friends.

Hello Again

2010-01-19T08:26:00.006-06:00

Since we last posted much has happened. We attended a beautiful memorial service for Patricia George. Our sympathies continue to go out to her family and fellow friends of this amazing woman.

Mary Sanchez of The Kansas City Star wrote a wonderful article on Harzfeld's entitled Harzfeld's was more than a store. We greatly appreciate her article and mentioning us and our book.

We have been scheduling a number of events over the next few months. We're very excited to have the opportunity to meet with those involved with or interested in Harzfeld's. The first of these events is Saturday, February 6, at the Barnes & Noble bookstore on the Country Club Plaza from 1 - 3 p.m.

We'll post several more events for February and March soon.

Welcoming 2010

2010-01-01T09:36:00.003-06:00

We are grateful for our friends, old and new over the past year. So many have been very generous with their time, words and patience. May the new year bring you peace, joy, serenity and success.

Patricia (Pat) Anne George

2009-12-21T21:37:00.008-06:00

We are saddened to learn of the passing of our friend Patricia on Sunday, December 20. She was a wonderful, talented and creative person with a zest for life.

Her obituary appeared in the Kansas City star on Sunday, December 27 with details of a memorial service to be held Wednesday, December 30. (click here to view obituary)

KC area Holiday Windows #2

2009-12-18T18:16:00.012-06:00

Blue Christmas
Click image for larger version

Great at night! Complete Music/Video, 5811 Johnson Dr., Mission, KS

Today's Links
Melissa's Motifs Mosaics
elvis.com
Christmas Windows 2009 search on YouTube

Thank You

2009-12-13T21:53:00.014-06:00

We're grateful for the opportunity to meet so many nice people this weekend. Thanks so much for purchasing the book and sharing your stories.

We also appreciate our amazing hosts, Ann and Barb, at our first signing at Her Majesty's Closet.

Border's in the Northland was also a great experience. Thanks to Lill and her staff for hosting our afternoon signing.

Apologies
Please forgive us for not including information on important associates of Harzfeld's. We welcome information, stories and photos to share here, in a possible updated version of the book and to add to our archives. Please email us at info@harzfelds.com.

Perfume
We're targeting the Fall of 2010 for a possible introduction of our recreation of Harzfeld's Petticoat Lane perfume. Please check back for more details.

Today's Links
Edith Head Exhibit at Price Tower, January 22 - May 16, 2010
1stdibs Introspective - On Location - Holiday Moments - New York

In The Independent

2009-12-08T07:58:00.008-06:00

We're grateful for an article printed in the Dec. 5 issue of The Independent on Harzfeld's: A Brief History. It's an honor to be mentioned in this publication that had a long relationship with the specialty store. The Independent has been very helpful in sharing information and images for our book.

The article mentioned our three scheduled book signings. Hope you can stop by.

Saturday, December 12

Her Majesty's Closet in Prairie Village, KS
11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Borders in the Northland
3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday, February 6

Barnes and Noble on the Country Club Plaza
1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Kansas City, Mo.

KC area Holiday Windows #1

2009-12-06T21:13:00.011-06:00

Today I made it out to the River Market Antique Mall. What a fun group of people! They had their open house today and had goodies and games... try to make it next year if you can.

But for this year, stop by and see their windows! They were created by Craig Smikle and Jeff Parson, who also painted A Christmas Story elements.

Click images for larger versions

Today's Link
A Christmas Story, The Musical! Kansas City Repertory Theatre

Handkerchief Box

2009-12-03T20:29:00.008-06:00

Here's a nifty box that has two roses that intertwine for the closure. Our example came with one of Harzfeld's signature Petticoat Lane scene handkerchiefs with a foil label stating "Created by Kimball, All Linen."

Check out Fashion by the Decade from the Detroit Institute of Arts on flickr.

Delay in Book Availability

2009-11-30T11:07:00.003-06:00

We've just found out that there has been a delay in the availability of our book, Harzfeld's: A Brief History. More updates to come, but it looks as though the first deliveries will be sent out next week.

In the News!

2009-11-30T07:27:00.006-06:00

We're excited to share an article written by Rick Hellman, Editor of the Kansas City Jewish Chronicle. We had the pleasure of meeting Rick a few weeks ago for an interview. We greatly appreciate the opportunity.

New book chronicles Harzfeld's

The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle has been published weekly since 1920.

Country Club Plaza, Past and Present

2009-11-25T14:15:00.002-06:00

Today's Walt Bodine Show's topic was the history of the Country Club Plaza.
Take a listen!

Diminishing Glass

2009-11-19T18:40:00.006-06:00

Still from the film Making of a Mural.
Yep, I (Joe) thought they were one and the same, a magnifying glass and a diminishing glass. They are not. I feel a little diminished, but appreciate learning something new. A diminishing glass has a concave lens that reduces an image and has been a tool for artists such as Thomas Hart Benton in assessing large subjects. Please note that on page 54 of our book, Harzfeld's: A Brief History, the fourth paragraph, second sentence should read: "He would continually step back to look at the work through a diminishing glass."

Also, the first sentence in Chapter 5 on page 53 should start "In the fall of 1946," rather than "In 1947,". The mural was completed in 1947, however the commission would have been in 1946.

We appreciate the friend who alerted us to this and welcome your emails on inaccuracies in our book.

Eventually, you'll be able to see more corrections by clicking here.

Vintage Convertible

2009-11-18T22:22:00.003-06:00

It's a big hat box with two ways to carry.

Make it through those revolving doors with ease.

Her Majesty's Closet

2009-11-17T05:13:00.009-06:00

(PAST EVENT) We're excited to announce our first to be scheduled book signing, hosted by Her Majesty's Closet, a couture consignment shop. It will be Saturday, December 12, 2009 from 11 a.m — 2 p.m. at 4113 W. 83rd St. in Prairie Village, Kansas. We greatly appreciate Her Majesty's Closet which recently moved to this new location. They offer some wonderful fashions.

Paper Pooches

2009-11-15T09:55:00.001-06:00

Another window display, featuring a fashion from Akris, from Michele's New York trip .

We hope to post some local Kansas City window displays in the future.

Grateful

2009-11-13T07:58:00.007-06:00

It looks as though our book, Harzfeld's: A Brief History will be available within two weeks. We're grateful to the History Press in helping us to realize this project. They've been very helpful and patient with us.

Yesterday, our friend Ralph at Mpress provided us with a couple spiral bound mock-up copies of the book from our PDF proofs. This really gives us a feel for what the finished product will be like. It all seems to condense down nicely in this format. I think the stories will be enjoyable to everyone, in spite of our writing abilities.

We also celebrate Eva Zeisel's 103rd Birthday today! More information on Eva and her designs can be found at evazeisel.org. There's also a temporary slide show to honor her birthday by Steve Basile of photos taken at the '07 Mingei International Museum exhibit.

Hello Kitty

2009-11-11T19:27:00.000-06:00

A tiny box, 3" x 1.5" x 1", is home for this kitty, a pin constructed of fur, rhinestones and pipe cleaners. It may have been a gift for purchasing a "larger" fur from Harzfeld's.

Box Bag

2009-11-10T17:43:00.020-06:00

Enid Collin's line of extremely fun wooden "box bags" and accessories were offered by Harzfeld's in the '60s and '70s. You can occasionally find an example with the addition of a Harzfeld's applied label. Michele has been collecting the be-jeweled handbags for years. She even has one with a built-in transistor radio.

More information on the designer can be found at Enid Collins Collection, a site created by Christian Collins, Enid's grandson. Christian's sister, Lara Collins Bobo, along with her husband Tim offer a new line of fashions and accessories with similar playful design sensibilities. Check out their site at enidlifestyle.com. (image to right: Archimedes Wood Ring from enidlifestyle.com)

Reshaping Technology

2009-11-06T07:00:00.001-06:00

This is a window from Bergdorf Goodman titled Reshaping Technology. Michele shot this photo and the detail below while in New York last week.

American Beauty Exhibit

2009-11-05T05:21:00.005-06:00

American Beauty: Aesthetics and Innovation in Fashion
The Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), New York
November 6, 2009 - April 10, 2010

More information at fitnyc.edu/museum.

A catalog is also available.

'30s Box

2009-11-03T18:33:00.004-06:00

This box is from the collection of Gary and Elaine Kabrick. From memory, it's approximately 8" x 12". We're guessing that it's from the late '30s since it features a thin line version to the logo introduced going into the '40s.

A Hat Box

2009-10-28T21:59:00.013-05:00

Michele found this hat box at a local estate sale last week. It is 7" in height when closed, and 9" wide flat edge to edge. This example just had to be animated. I thought about having a hat pop out after it opened, but for now you'll just have to imagine what type of hat might be inside. Look for us to feature an example of Harzfeld's packaging each Thursday.

Michele has been away in New York for a few days. This is her first time there and she's having a wonderful time. Joe's back in Kansas City raking leaves.

The book should be available around Thanksgiving! More details to come.

Last week we had the opportunity to meet and be interviewed by Rick Hellman from the The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle. It was fun and we greatly appreciated the opportunity.

Oh What Fun

2009-10-19T11:30:00.000-05:00

We just received this photo of a sleigh owned by Larry Sherman. He's certain that it's from Harzfeld's and was displayed in the Christmas windows along with the mechanical Dresden dolls. We don't have any photos featuring the sleigh, so if you have memories or possibly photos of the sleigh, we would welcome them. It is circa 1880-1900. Larry is offering it for sale and is accepting bids from anyone interested.

Harzfelds: A Brief History preliminary cover design

2009-10-12T20:25:00.003-05:00

We've continually underestimated the time this project would take. The History Press has been very kind in extending our deadlines. We actually just submitted our manuscript and it is now in an editing stage. More updates to come over the next several weeks.

Zafar Boutique and Salon

2009-10-12T19:23:00.007-05:00

Just a couple blocks south from the original location of The Parisian, Zafar Boutique and Salon is about to open soon. The new locally owned business will feature a number of beauty services and women's fashions.

firststepfund.org article

kcstar.com article

September Issue

2009-10-10T20:45:00.001-05:00

Last week we snuck away to a matinee showing of The September Issue. A documentary on the making of the 2007 September issue of Vogue magazine. Joe and I both give it three and a half stars. The players, the fashion, the process was great fun to observe, and I was especially taken with Grace Coddington. I have always been a fan of hers, and thoroughly enjoyed seeing this amazing creative director at work. Worth the watch!

Artnet Article by Brook S. Mason mentioning Anna Wintour and her Clarice Cliff pottery.

Enabler or Visionary?

2009-10-10T08:49:00.003-05:00

Kim, one of our followers wrote a great article, Enabler or Visionary? The Man Behind the Green and White Stripes with a Harzfeld's focus for examiner.com. It provides a look at service back in the day. We appreciate the link she provided to our site harzfelds.com, which appears to need some updating. Hopefully that will happen soon.

Green Stripes as Shoes

2009-10-03T11:04:00.000-05:00

Harzfeld's did quite the shoe business, but they never sold anything quite like this.

Check out the Mojito shoe concept by architect Julian Hakes at dezeen.com.