Testament to Our Ingenuity
All of these objects were found and used in homes during the 1900s. Some were used in kitchens, while others were more personal or unique. They show how our ancestors lived.
Old Fashioned Seltzer Bottle
Brooklyn, NY
given by my grandparents
When my mom was very young, people would carry heavy crates of seltzer bottles on their back up the stairs to her apartment in Brooklyn, NY. It is a very old fashioned way of getting seltzer. It has a pump and a spout for the seltzer to come out of.
It was passed down from my grandparents. It is important to us because it is a reminder of how people used to get seltzer when my mother was a child.
Frying Pan
USA
passed down from grandma
This frying pan was owned by my grandparents and used for cooking eggs, sauces, etc.
The frying pan brings back memories of meals shared together.
Jewelry Box
USA
My mom, Amy
This box was given to my great grandma Caroline by her husband Jack in the 1940s. It held her treasures for 15 years until she gave it to her daughter, my grandmother Maroline. When we moved her out of her house, she gave it to my mom.
It is one of the few things we have from my great grandma. It is very special because it was passed down through three or four generations. My mom's grandma was very special to my mom because they shared birthdays every year.
Teddy Bear
Brooklyn, NY
My father
The bear was made from my great-grandmother's winter coat. After she died her coat was made into teddy bears and each grandchild was give one. This bear was given to my father.
This was my great-grandmother's winter coat. It is a great way to remember her.