Framing a Nation

We were honored this past August to have a hand in preserving a very significant and special piece of history. The letter, dated 1920, contains a seal that holds pieces of lead from the “bone box” which held and transferred the bones of “probably thirty Pilgrims who died in Plymouth two hundred and fifty years ago.” The writer eloquently stated, “In looking at this piece of lead you will visualize the entire compass of American history starting with a handful of stalwart men on Plymouth Rock, to a nation of 110,000,000 people.” Whoa.These relics were brought to us by a passionate historian to be framed for display by the General Society of Mayflower Descendants, and more importantly, preserved for coming generations. The piece will initially be exhibited at the Mayflower Society House for the 2017 Pilgrim Congress. This assembly meets every four years to elect its Governor and officials and honor its 30,000 members across the globe. Our MCPF Valerie Becker considered the aesthetics of the display venue in the design process. It was suggested that the finished piece should be quite grand, and we were excited to deliver! The design features an exquisite Larson Juhl Biltmore Collection frame, and a complementary Nurre Caxton fillet surrounding each mat opening. Two solid and pure cotton base mats add support and depth, further highlighting the significance of the relics. Our Master Framer left no stone unturned when it came to considering the archival preservation of this piece and the materials involved in the project. Extensive care was taken to ensure that these historical objects will remain protected from dust, UV light, acid producing papers, material gasses, and other elements that cause deterioration. We are humbled to be given this opportunity and experience. Our customers’ passions are OUR purpose, and we are grateful to have such wonderful, interesting, and meaningful projects to share. 

Frame Story: Dave Brown

To call Dave a history buff would be an understatement. Each time he visits with a new project, he proudly exclaims, "I’m here with my latest treasure.” As a dedicated treasure hunter, Dave has spent years researching and collecting historical postcards, artifacts, and photographs of the City of Red Wing.

A retiree of the Northern States Power Co., Dave is also a fan of the old electricity mascot, "Reddy Kilowatt." His extensive collection boasts historic media, mementos, and relics. Many of Dave's treasures are discovered on eBay. Upon finding something of interest, he meticulously researches its legitimacy at the Goodhue County Historical Society.

Dave has framed several newspaper ads, tintype photos, military certificates, and, most recently, a playbill from the Red Wing opera house, which burned down in 1882. When it comes to framing, Dave is all about preservation. His goal is to ensure history "will be around for future generations." As museum-quality framers, we are proud to help Dave achieve his mission.