Special Collections
|
 |
Jordan-Kale Ranch Bell -
This brass bell was used to call cotton-pickers in from the fields. It was taken from the historic John P. Kale home which was built on FM
350 around 1850. Kale was an early Republic of Texas pioneer who was instrumental in organizing and establishing Polk County. The
bell, located in the museum gardens, was donated by Barbara Jordan Meyers in 1998 in memory of Frank and Beauchamp Jordan,
brothers and ranch owners.
|
 |
House of Israel Church Bell - This church
was founded in 1892 by a group from Michigan that settled on 50 acres of land located on what is now known as Old Israel Road (FM
1316). The self-sufficient, farming people thought they were the lost tribe of Israel. The wore only black and did not believe in cutting
their hair. When the members began to die, the sect died out.
|
 |
Chickering Grand Piano (circa 1848) - This piano was
owned by Corene Hollenburger, then her son, Jay Hollenburger, and finally by Richard #663300, a Houston attorney who gifted the piano
to the museum. This piano is identical to one owned by the Metropolitan Museum of Arts in New York City.
|
 |
Pump Organ - This organ was
donated by the Claude Pepper family. It was owned by Moon Mullican who was born in Polk County and later became a famous Grand
Old Oprey star in the late 40s and 50s. He wrote "I'll Sail My Ship Alone" which stayed No. 1 on the charts for 26 weeks.
|
 |
Antique Chair - This chair was gifted to the
museum by the Big Thicket Museum in Saratoga, Texas. It is believed to have come from the old hotel and spa acclaimed to have
healing power in its hot mineral baths. Sam Houston was a frequent visitor. Restoration of the chair was possible through a donation by
Mrs. Nell Wilkerson.
|
 |
Antique Dolls - From the
Collection of Katy Harrop who generously donated them for the purpose of being sold in the museum's Gift Shop. They are Bisque and
Composition.
|
 |
Wine Colored Dress with
Lace Collar - Donated by Gertrude Blodgett Murphy. It was worn by her mother circa 1890.
|
 |
White Linen Walking Suit -
Donated by Kathy Harrop. Worn by women circa 1900. |
