This Gorham silver punch bowl set brings one into the opulent world of the Roaring Twenties. Founded in 1831, Gorham has long been synonymous with quality silverware, and this set, with its monogrammed bowl and cups bearing the initials "JBMC," captures the spirit of an age marked by lavish parties and celebrations. In the world depicted by F. Scott Fitzgerald in The Great Gatsby, silverware became an integral part of the extravagant parties that defined the lives of the elite. The clinking … [Read more...] about Gorham Silver Punch Bowl Set
Collection Highlights-History
Konditorei Cushion
This cushion from 1971 is colorfully embroidered with the names of then staff members from the local Sun Valley restaurant Konditorei. The embroidered cushion in the Wood River Museum’s collection is a vibrant testament to Sun Valley's culinary heritage as it unravels the history of Konditorei, a beloved restaurant that first opened its doors in the mid-1960s. Crafted with care, this cushion captures the dedication of the restaurant's staff in 1971, each name stitched into the fabric … [Read more...] about Konditorei Cushion
Sitzski
Embark on a unique journey through history with the Sitzski—an innovative contraption that offers riders a comfortable, seated glide down the slopes while symbolizing the inventive spirit of alpine exploration. Buckle up, snow enthusiasts! Tucked away in our museum's collection is a piece that not only defies convention but also represents a unique chapter in the history of alpine innovation—the Sitzski. Donated in 2001 by Mary Hite, this unconventional contraption is more than just a ski; … [Read more...] about Sitzski
Chinese Liquor Bottle
This Chinese liquor bottle from the 1880s was found by a local resident near Nay Aug mine, between Hailey and Ketchum. Nestled within the rugged landscapes of Central Idaho lies a relic that not only speaks of cross-cultural connections, but also unveils a chapter in the state's history marked by a significant presence of Chinese immigrants. This Chinese liquor bottle from the 1880s, discovered near Nay Aug Mine by local resident Ray Brooks, is newly acquired to the museum’s collection … [Read more...] about Chinese Liquor Bottle
Red Cloche Hat with Pin
This cloche hat is made from red wool felt and is decorated with a small pin of a mountain climbing ax with a climbing rope coiled around it and a travel souvenir charm attached. The shield charm is a landscape with the word “ Pordoi” printed across the top. This likely refers to the Passo Pordoi, located up high in the Italian Dolomites. Beatrice "Bebe" O. Haemmerle, owner of the hat, moved to Sun Valley from the Midwest in 1947 and settled. She married the painter and mountaineer, … [Read more...] about Red Cloche Hat with Pin
George Matsumoto Scrapbook, 1972
George Matsumoto was a local legend in the Wood River Valley. An avid photo doumentarian, he contributed a record of central Idaho 1970s recreational life. He worked as a chef at the Ore House in Sun Valley. Today there is a plaque at the bar in the Pioneer Restaurant in Ketchum commemorating where you could find him most nights. … [Read more...] about George Matsumoto Scrapbook, 1972
