ICGA HISTORY (1967-2009)
by Lee Markley
Forward
I have undertaken writing this series of articles at the request of some of the board members and the regular membership. It i
s based on early newsletters and some discussion with members. Requests for accounts of personal memories and experiences were sent to current members who attended the first meeting and to charter members. Many who replied were unable to recall the specifics of events that happened over thirty years ago. My appreciation for your response is extended. If anyone whom I haven’t contacted recalls events, please feel free to write an article about your experiences or contact me with the information, and I’ll include it in future articlesThrough researching the I.C.G.A.’s history, it has become apparent that this has almost become a daunting task. I will attempt to do as thorough a job as possible based on the information I have at my disposal. So here we go.
The first ever carnival glass club.
The Society of Carnival Glass Collectors (SCGC) in 1966 in Kansas City.
Pictured are: Ed Gaida, Leslie Wolfe, Rosalie White, Charlotte Ormsby,
Mrs. Smith, Barbara Lemon, Raymond Lippe
Part One
The I.C.G.A. was formed in Indianapolis in 1967. Previous to that time many of those attending that first meeting had been associated with the National Carnival Glass Club which had been established in Kansas City sometime in 1963-64.
Evidently some dissatisfaction arose with this first club. In 1966 the American Carnival Glass Association was formed by some who had been affiliated with the Kansas City group in a meeting that, I believe, was held in the Akron, Ohio, area. The next year on July 10, 11, 12 the group establishing the I.C.G.A. met at the Holiday Inn Northwest in Indianapols with over 150 present. Rex and Phyllis Lyons of Swayzee, Indiana, served as General Chairmen and planned the convention along with the help of many others.
Registration began on Sunday morning with those attending receiving a souvenir badge designed by Mary McCaslin. Herb and Gretchen Ripley of Indianapolis had arranged the accommodations in one section of the motel. On Monday evening a banquet was held. Entertainmet consisted of a skit on “Carnival Glass Pattern Hats” under the direction of Lucy Lee Scott of Memphis, Tennessee. Later that evening Rex Lyons and Chuck Stone conducted an auction with the commission being used to defray the convention expensesOn Tuesday morning the business meeting occurred. Bryan Gentry of Hobart, Oklahoma, served as the temporary chairman.
The constitution and by-laws were presented and the club’s emblem and motto were selected. Nomination committee chairman Ola Lippe of Champaign, Illinois, presented the list of nominees. The group elected a president, vice-president, and ten board members. Rev. Leslie Wolfe of Villa Grove, Illinois, was chosen president, and Ed Gaida of Victoria, Texas, vice-president. They were to serve one year terms. Five board members were elected for two-year terms, and five for one-year term.
There were four geographic regions represented and two at-large directors. The East board members were Sherman Hand and Ray Wishard from New York and Pennsylvania respectively. Serving as Central directors were Bob McCaslin, Indiana, and Bob Thorup, Kansas. The South was represented by Mary Elizabeth Collier of Tennessee and Betty Klutts of Oklahoma. The West directors were Robert Shirrod of Washington and Annette Zwirn of California. Rex Lyons and Herb Ripley of Indiana served as the at-large directors. The Directors listed first held office for two-year terms
Rosalie White of Springfield, Missouri, was appointed the first secretary-editor and Charlotte Battin of Columbus, Indiana, treasurer to serve one year terms. Rev. Wolfe appointed M/M Loyd Miller of Arcola, Illinois, and M/M Sam Wolfe of Fowler, Indiana, to a special committee to assist him. He then presided over the remainder of the business meeting during which the by-laws and constitution were adopted. He also read messages from Marion Hartung and Rose Presznick who were unable to attend because of a car accident and a spider bite. Ward Russell, Charlotte Jamieson, and Dick Loeschinger representing the A.C.G.A. were introduced. Gertrude DeAtley covered the meeting for the Indianapolis Star.
A panel discussion took place with the emphasis on reproductions, aspects of collecting, and identification. A luncheon took place and following it Sherman Hand discussed his forthcoming book which presented Carnival Glass in color. Slides of various collections were also shown.
The convention closed having been attended by members from more than twenty states. The Shirrods had come the farthest. Preparations soon began for the second convention in 1968. During the ensuing year, the membership rose to 482.
Part Two
The second convention of the I.C.G.A. took place in Springfield, Illinois, at the Holiday Inn East from June 28-30, 1968. Unlike more recent conventions, the early conventions started on Saturday evening and ran through Monday evening or Tuesday morning. This second meeting marked the issuance of the first convention souvenir. It was a china plate. Mary McCaslin had designed it and it featured a Town Pump and a calendar entwined with ivy. On the back was the history of the I.C.G.A.’s first year.
Somewhere in excess of 147 were registered by Howard and Charlotte Battin and Sam and Earleen Wolfe. First day events included panel discussions on the glass manufacturers of Indiana and marks and patents of Carnival. One of the early concerns, as now, it seems, was the advent of new Carnival Glass production which was unmarked and frequently made from old molds or copying old patterns.
Colored slides were shown by Herb Ripley. These illustrated items from various collections around the country. Incidentally, I believe these still exist and are archived by Jack and Mary Adams. Correct me if I’m wrong, Jack.
Later in the convention Rex Lyons conducted a consignment auction. Feature items were a Buddha for $425, a dark Garden Path plate for $450, and a dark Morning Glory pitcher and tumbler for $675. In all, the auction realized $5,000.
Once again banquet entertainment consisted of a Roaring Twenties skit directed by Lucy Lee Scott. This took place on Saturday evening. On Sunday activities began with church services and a noon luncheon. In the afternoon Herb Ripley continued his slide presentation and Sherman Hand reported on their trip to Millersburg.
The business meeting occurred later in the convention. Bob McCaslin gave the nominating report. Herb Ripley became president and Betty Klutts vice-president. Directors chosen for two years were Ray Wishard-East; Bob Thorup-Central; Ed Gaida-South; Annette Zwirn-West; and Ola Lippe-At-Large. Held over directors were Sherman Hand, Bob McCaslin, Mary Elizabeth Collier, Bob Shirrod, and Rex Lyons. Charlotte Battin was re-appointed treasurer and Rovene Heaton Secretary-Editor.
Dr. Ron Burt was appointed convention chairman for the 1969 convention to be held in St. Louis. After a board meeting the convention adjourned to re-assemble on July 6-8, 1969.
Part Three
The ensuing year saw the membership increase to 673 by convention time in St. Louis. As had been provided in the by-laws, the election of officers took place by mailed ballot, and they were introduced at the business meeting. Herb Ripley remained as president and Dr. Vernon Burch of Wisconsin became vice-president. Additional at-large directors were added to the board as provided by changes to the by-laws. John Woody of Kansas and Bryan Gentry were elected for two-year terms and Sam Wolfe a one-year term. New regional directors were Anna Tice, New York-East; Snoda Parham, Tennessee-South; Joe Cox, Iowa-Central; and Dr. George Beckner, California-West. Holdover directors were Ray Wishard-East; Ed Gaida-South; Bob Thorup-Central; Annette Zwirn-West; and Ola Lippe-At Large. Mildred Mummert was appointed treasurer, and Rovene Heaton re-appointed Secretary-Editor.
The St. Louis convention marked the issuance of the first iridized souvenir, a decanter. It was made in purple with 564 pieces being made by Wheaton Glass Company of Millville, New Jersey. Over 200 members attended the convention with 160 at the Monday evening banquet. Ward Russell was the speaker. He had just come in from the ACGA convention earlier that week in Los Angeles. This was also the first year for the appreciation award which was a round paperweight with the Town Pump emblem. On Monday Ronald Hansen presented a talk on the process of iridizing Carnival Glass.
Later John Woody and Rex Lyons conducted the auction. It grossed $8,439 and was open to the public. Some of the highlights were a marigold Pipe Humidor-$850; God and Home tumbler-$160; blue Rose Show plate-$100; marigold Australian Swan bowl-$65; and an ice green Peacocks plate for $90.
The convention adjourned after the Tuesday morning brunch to reconvene in Milwaukee, Wisconsin from July 12-14. It is interesting to note that the ICGA and ACGA conventions were held on consecutive weeks in those days.
With Dr. and Mrs. Vernon Burch acting as hosts, the ICGA met in Milwaukee July 12-14, 1970. One hundred seventy-three registered with several arriving as early as Friday.
One of the features of this convention was the elaborate display set up by Dick Clair of Rushville, Indiana. The convention opened Sunday evening with a skit based on Goldilocks and the Three Bears under the direction of Lucy Lee Scott. Music was performed by Avonelle Shirrod. The cast consisted of James Collier, Papa Bear; Mr. A. W. Archer as Mama Bear; Dick Clair, Baby Bear; and Lucy Scott as Goldilocks.
The 1970 souvenir was unveiled at the board meeting. It was a dark bowl with the ICGA emblem, Milwaukee, and the date. Five hundred ninety of these were made. The election results of the mail ballots were read by Rovene Heaton. Dr. Vernon Burch was elected president and James Collier became vice-president. New board members were Byron Rinehart-East; J. T. Sisk-South; Mrs. DeLayne Eigenburg-Central; Dorothy Ray-West; and Ola Lippe and Richard Noonan-At-Large. Rovene Heaton and Mildred Mummert were reappointed Secretary-Editor and Treasurer respectively.
The hold over directors were Anna Tice, Snoda Parham, Joe Cox, Dr. George Beckner, John Woody, and Bryan Gentry.
A change in the by-laws provided for the immediate past president to serve on the board. At the business meeting Wily Addis proposed the merger of the ACGA and ICGA. No action occurred on this at that time. Other proposed changes to the by-laws were also made to be taken up by the board of directors later.
The program was presented by Prof. Harvey Littleton of the Art Department of the University of Wisconsin. After the banquet the auction was conducted by Walter Naustake, a local auctioneer. One of the highlights was an Acorn Burrs nine piece punch set that brought $425. The auction total was $5,000.
The convention adjourned on Tuesday after the breakfast meeting to meet in Louisville in 1971. People had come from 24 states. Over the course of the year the membership grew from 714 to 901. By the convention’s close 30 new members had been added. In March of 1971 the first bound membership roster was sent out to members. At that time there were over 1,125 active members.
The 1971 convention was held in July at Louisville, Kentucky, with 245 registering. The A. W. Archers and Ray Copeland served as convention chairmen. Fortyeight new members joined bringing the total membership to 1,204.
Convention attendees were greeted by an administrative assistant to Governor Louis Nunn. The usual devotional service and skit took place on Sunday. The 1971 souvenir, a dark paperweight modelled after the Imperial paperweight, was unveiled. During these early years the souvenirs weren’t sold until the convention. This frequently resulted in many not being sold. There were 540 produced of the paperweights.
Elected officers and directors were announced from the mailed ballots. Dr. Vernon Burch-president; James Collier-vice-president were chosen.
Part Four
One of the interesting events of that year (1973) was the Ken and Ruth Clark auction held that spring in Indianapolis. Their green Peoples Vase brought $7,100. It was the one, according to the story, that they had found in a shop in the Chicago area being used to hold artificial flowers. Other items in their sale were a fourpiece marigold Country Kitchen table set for $850 and a purple Hobsar and Feather punch bowl and cups for $3,100.
By June of 1974 the membership totaled 1,215 and included members from Australia and Canada as well as forty-six states and the District of Columbia. In 1974 the convention was held in Columbus, Ohio, from June 21-24 at the imperial House North. This was the first convention to start on Thursday and run through Saturday morning. It also marked the first time that the International and the American were held a month apart after a gentlemen’s agreement to do so and alternate who would be first.
The convention was attended by 254 members from 26 states and Canada. I believe this may have been the first convention attended by anyone from Canada. Activities began officially on Thursday morning with the devotional service and group singing. The 1974 souvenir plate was shown. It waspurple with a Cardinal for Ohio, a Town Pump, and the date and city. Some 536 were made. Because of two runs by Smith Glass about half were black amethyst and the others grape purple.
The banquet was served to 218 on Thursday evening. Dr. Harvey Hahn of Dayton, Ohio, was the speaker. The auction took place Friday and totaled $10,872.50. Some of the items sold included an amber NuArt plate for $375, red Holly hat $130, marigold File pitcher, $200, and a marigold Crucifix candlestick for $280.
The annual business meeting was presided over by Dr. Beckner as Sam Wolfe was taken to the hospital. Joe Corrothers presented the slate of officers, and Ed Gaida became president and Bob Vining vice president. New Directors selected were East-Jim Warren; South-Betty Klutts; Central-John Britt; West-John Muehlbauer; and at-large-Bob Leonard and Harold Ludeman. Rovene Heaton and Mildred Mummert remained secretary editor and treasurer. Holdover directors were Christ Harnish, Mrs. J. T. Sisk, Marvin Epley, Don Moore, Jack Burk, and Ray Healey.
Christ Harnish invited the ICGA to Pennsylvania for 1975; slides of various collections were shown afterward. On Saturday Carl Booker installed the new officers after breakfast. Appreciation awards were presented, and the convention ended.
Allentown, Pennsylvania, was the site of the 1975 convention which ran from July 31-august 2. Over three hundred attended this convention hosted by the Keystone Club. The souvenir was shown for the first time. It was an amberina plate with the Town Pump, a Keystone, Liberty Bell to represent Pennsylvania, and the city and date. Four hundred sixty-two were made. This marked the end of having the souvenir kept secret until the convention. Largely this was due to poor sales and a large backlog of inventory. By taking orders first and having just that number made, it was hoped to avoid having a large number remaining unsold.
A devotional service was held and group singing took place on Thursday. The banquet held that evening was served to 215. Door prizes were given and the Queen of Carnival Glass, Brenda Hutchinson of Alexandria, Virginia, was introduced. The entertainment was presented by a Kitchen Band made up of senior citizens from Lititz, Pennsylvania, who had appeared on national TV.
On Friday the auction took place which totaled more than $14,000. Auction chairmen were Bob Vining and Joe Corrothers. Tom Burns and Ray Wishard assisted auctioneer John Woody. The business meeting took place that evening. Marvin Epley announced the slate of officers and directors to be voted on. Since there were no additional nominations from the floor, the slate was elected by acclamation. Those chosen were Ed Gaida president; Bob Vining-vice president; East-Doug Williams; South-Sam Roebuck; Central-Lee Markley; West-Joe Merrifield, and at-large-Ann Heeley and Jim Farr. Rovene Heaton remained secretary-editor and Mildred Mummert treasurer. Hold over directors were Jim Warren, Betty Klutts, John Britt, John Muehlbauer, Bob Leonard, and Harold Ludeman.
With the coming of the tenth convention, it was decided to open the convention to guests who would be presented a visitor’s ribbon and guided around the convention by members. Publicity was to be sought from radio, TV, and local papers. An information booth was to be provided to answer questions about glass and identify any brought in. Another change was to begin giving trophies for the three best displays as voted by the members, and a membership and distance traveled award. This convention saw the first overseas member in attendance, Carol Hartigan of Australia. Appreciation awards were presented, and Eula Epley installed the officers and directors. The convention closed to reconvene in Indianapolis for the tenth convention.
One of the highlights for me was stopping by the Wishards in Chambersburg to view their collection. For those of you not familiar with them, they had one of the largest collections in the country at that time. It was really mind-boggling to see the third floor rooms lined with shelves from floor to ceiling filled with Carnival–row after row of plates, punch sets, bowls, and water sets.
The year 1976 brought a great loss to the ICGA. In January Ed Gaida, the president, passed away after a brief illness. This marked the first time the vice president took over running the club.
Another memorable event was the sale by John Woody of the Collier collection in February. One of the features was the Frolicking Bears pitcher and tumbler which brought $6,000 and $3,500. The two Morning Glory tankards sold for $7,000, amethyst, and $4,000, marigold.
With such momentous events taking place that year, the ICGA met in Indianapolis for its tenth convention July 1-3 at the Marriott Inn with the Hoosier Club as hosts. Another significant happening was Rovene and Mildred retiring as secretary-editor and treasurer. There was considerable discussion in reference to these positions at the board meeting and the business meeting. Finally a separate editor’s position was made a part of the constitution and by-laws. The duties of the secretary, treasurer, and editor were revised accordingly in them.
At the business meeting Jim Warren presented the slate of officers namely Bob Vining-President; Jim Moggvice president; Mary Adams-secretary; Nancy Williams-treasurer; Carl Booker-editor; John Roller-East; Dr. Jack Pritchard-South; Don Moore-West; Dr. Jack Adams and Hugh Pfaff-at-large; and Joe Corrothers-Central. The nominations closed and the slate accepted. Holdover directors were Doug Williams, Lee Markley, Sam Roebuck, Joe Merrifield, Ann Heeley, and Jam Farr. Newly elected officers were installed by Lee Markley at the breakfast meeting.
This was one of the larger conventions in attendance although no actual attendance figure was given, but 146 families registered. The banquet attracted 222 who were entertained by the Speed City Singers, a Barbershop Chorus consisting of 75. Special recognition was given to past presidents and charter members. Other activities and awards were presented. Display awards were given to Byron and Grace Rinehart for “Back Home Again in Indiana”-third; “Buttons and Bowls” by Fran and Ray Abendroth-second; and “Fernery” by Christ and Ethel Harnish-first. Carol Hartigan had come the farthest, and Jabe Tarter signed up the most new members. The auction total was $7,813. Rovene and Mildred were made lifetime members. This most successful convention closed after the breakfast meeting on Saturday to meet in Marietta, Georgia, the next year. The membership stood at 1,115.
Part Five
Several topics concerned the Carnival Glass world in 1976-77. One was the appearance of reproductions having the Northwood mark. Because the American Carnival Glass Association held the rights to that mark, a lawsuit was filed to stop its use. Carl Schleede, ACGA president, explained that suit to ICGA members at the Marietta convention. The ICGA membership voted to assist the ACGA financially.
Another issue was a proposed merger between the two organizations. It was discussed for about a year with comments both in favor and against. After a membership poll elicited a less than overwhelming response in both clubs, the matter was settled by both clubs remaining separate.
Proposed changes to the ICGA constitution were made to make the emblem a part of the By-Laws, clarify the membership policy, dues, and voting rights of members, and make changes in the terms of office for president and vice-president to two years and in their method of election. Annual appointment of the secretary and the treasurer by the president with concurrence of the board was another change. They were also to be bonded. The duties of the secretary were revised to reflect the establishment of a separate newsletter editor position. The amending procedure for the By-laws was also changed.
The election of officers saw Bob Vining re-elected president and Jack Adams vice- president. The directors elected were East-Richard Neal; South-Chester Herring; Central-Mary Noonan; West-Bill Carroll; and At Large-Heather Helm and David Morgan. Tom Burns was elected to fill the remainder of Jack Adams’ term as director. Mary Adams declined another appointment as secretary. Bob Vining appointed Lee Markley as secretary and re-appointed Nancy Williams, treasurer, and Carl Booker, editor. Hold-over directors were John Roller, Jack Pritchard, Joe Corrothers, Don Moore, and High Pfaff.
The membership was 1,314 from 46 states, the District of Columbia, Australia, Canada, and England. Banquet attendance was 212. There had been 250 registered and an estimated 150 guests. The convention in those days had a visitor day and an open auction. The display awards were won by Lil Williams, third for “Country Carnival;” second, the John Britts for “Carnival Mugarama;” and first, Byron and Grace Rinehart for “Kittens Play in Georgia.” The membership award went to Jabe Tarter and the distance traveled to Joe Merrifield.
The secretary was instructed to look into incorporating the ICGA as a non-profit organization. The convention auction totaled $7,573. There were 670 souvenir Town Pumps made in red. The convention adjourned to meet in Ft. Mitchell, KY., in 1978.
During the 1977-78 year the ICGA was incorporated as a non-profit organization in Indiana. The membership was 1,166 in 44 states, the District of Columbia, Australia, Canada, and England. Jim Farr had invited the convention to Ft. Mitchell, KY., in July where the twelfth meeting occurred from July 13-15, 1978. During the course of the convention 268 people registered, 223 attended the banquet, and 135 the breakfast. On Visitor’s Day 17 registered with more coming, but not registering. Members came from 28 states and Canada. The souvenir was a light green miniature pump. The auction total was around $9,200. This year also saw the passing of board member Hugh Pfaff and Rose Presznick. The distance award went to Joan Freeze and the membership to Christ Harnish. Display awards went to Byron and Grace Rinehart-first; Don and Connie Moore-Second; and Rose and Carl Schleede-third.
At the annual business meeting the election of officers results in Bob Vining being elected president and Jim Farr, vice-president. Directors elected were East-Larry Yung; Central-Craig Heeley; South-Floyd Whitley; West-Charles Adams; and At-Large-Jimmy Jones and Clyde Wilder. Lee Markley, Nancy Williams, and Carl Booker were reappointed secretary, treasurer, and editor. After the officers and directors were installed by Eula Epley, the convention adjourned.
The thirteenth convention was held in St. Louis, MO., from July 26-28, 1979, and hosted by the Gateway Club of St. Louis. The souvenir was an amethyst miniature Town Pump. Around 550 undamaged ones were sold. The membership was 1,081 as of July 1, 1979, and represented 43 states, Australia, Canada, England, and Libya. The award for coming the farthest was presented to Ken and Marcie Osbon of Oregon. Christ Harnish received the membership award. The display awards went to Christ and Ethel Harnish-first for “Peacocks on Parade;” Fay and Harold Peugh second for “Carnival Merry-Go-Round;” and Grace and Byron Rinehart-third for “St. Louis Blues.”
At the business meeting the directors elected were East-Rev. N. E. Nething; South-Jerry Wood; Central-Carl Schroeder; At-Large-Jerry Hunter and Marge Miller. The hold-over directors were Larry Yung, Floyd Whitley, Craig Heeley, Charles Adams, Clyde Wilder, and Jimmy Jones. Bob Vining appointed Lee Markley, secretary; Nancy Williams, treasurer; and Carl Booker, editor. The invitation to go to Perrysburg, Ohio, was accepted for 1980. The auction total was $11,780. This was the last strictly membership consignment auction.
With the approach of the 1980 convention Carl Booker thought it was time to retire as editor, but was persuaded to change his mind. The souvenir was a marigold miniature Town Pump. This was the last time this mold was used, and it is the least easily found as not many were made. The convention was held at the Holiday Inn and was attended by 228. Visitors totaled 50 and the banquet was attended by 168 and the breakfast by 140. The convention was hosted by the Bob Leanards, Chet Cripes, Glenn Clarks, Bob Gallos,the Joe Corrothers, and Helen Hilton. This marked the first time a private auction was held in connection with the convention. John Woody was the auctioneer, and the club received a percentage of the receipts. It also marked the advent of seminars at a convention. Jack and Mary Adams did one on Cambridge Carnival.
The membership of 1,065 represented 47 states, Australia, Canada, England, and Libya. The award for distance traveled went to Esmae and Maurice Salmon of Australia. Rovene Heaton won the membership award. The Display Award winners were first-Carl and Rose Schleede, “Eight is Enough;” second-Bob and Kitty Vining, “Cool, Icy Green and Frosty White;” and third-Carl and Eunice Booker, “Imperial Geometrics.”
The election of officers took place at the business meeting. The nominees for directors were presented with no additional nominees from the floor. Directors elected were East-Ruth Schinestuhl; South-Ernest Laningham; Central-Mavis Loescher; West-Don Moore; At-Large-Joe Corrothers and Grace Rinehart. Floyd Whitley became vice president, and Jack Adams was elected president. Lee Markley, Nancy Williams, and Carl Booker remained secretary, treasurer, and editor. The convention closed after Eunice Booker installed the new officers and directors. The site of the 1981 convention wasn’t determined as of the convention’s close. LaCrosse, Wisconsin, was announced as the site in the September newsletter. That newsletter also was the first of a series of articles by Don Moore.
Part Six
The fifteenth annual convention was held August 6-8, 1981, in LaCrosse, WI. The main attraction was the display of Harold and Virginia Ludemann’s collection of Northwood and Dugan glass. This was really the start of the Display Room feature of later conventions.
It was one of the largest conventions that has been held as it was attended by 287 and attracted 70 registered visitors for the open house. There were 62 room displays besides lots of glass for sale in the rooms. The souvenir was an aqua opal Frolicking Bears spittoon which sold out the first day. The banquet was attended by a large crowd as was the breakfast. A change in the by-laws was made to change the voting for officers and directors to read a majority rather than “two thirds.”
The business meeting was held August 6 where the election of new directors occurred. The nominees were East-Tom Burns; Central-Cooley Miller; South-Bob Lovell; West-Ken Osbon; and At-large 3 and 4-Carl Booker and Leonard Krimmel. There was a nomination from the floor of Lucile Britt for Central director and no others. The other five were elected by acclamation. After ballots were distributed and counted, Lucile Britt was elected. The hold-over directors were Ruth Schinestuhl, Ernest Laningham, Mavis Loescher, Don Moore, Joe Corrothers, and Grace Rinehart. Lee Markley and Nancy Williams were re-appointed secretary and treasurer. Ferne Schroeder became editor as Carl Booker retired. Special recognition was given to Don Moore and John and Lucile Britt for the series of articles they had written. Carl Booker was recognized for his serving as editor for five years. Rovene Heaton signed up the most new members, and John Resnick had come the farthest. Bob Vining was honored for serving five years as president.
The display winners were first-Phil and Dorothy Perry for their enameled display and Henry and Beverly Hawk for one featuring Stag and Holly. Second place went to Grace and Byron Rinehart for their Kittens display and third place to Christ and Ethel Harnish for their Grape and Cable dresser setting. Dorothy and Wayland Billingsley were given honorable mention. Jack Wilson, John Britt, and Tom Burns conducted a panel discussion on unusual pieces. The convention also revealed the identify of Daisy Plume who turned out to be none other than Norma Morrison. Daisy had written a long running column for The Pump.
During the 80-81 dues year the membership grew to 1,144 members from 46 states, Australia, Canada, and England. The Hoosiers extended an invitation to meet in Indiana for the 1982 convention which was accepted. The convention adjourned after the Saturday breakfast meeting.
The outstanding Carnival event besides the convention was the dispersal of the Jack Wilsons’ Millersburg collection in February 1982. Another important first was the appearance of the color inserts to accompany Don Moore’s articles in The Pump. By the time the convention arrived in July, the membership had reaches 1,372 members in 49 states, Australia, Canada, England, and Switzerland. Elkhart, Indiana, was the site of the sixteenth convention where 253 attended at the Midway Motor Lodge. Members had come from 24 states, Australia, and Canada. Television coverage resulted in a large attendance on Visitor’s Day and at the auction. The banquet was served to about 170 and the breakfast to 130. Tom Burns and Bill Richards auctioned glass from the Mello collection. The dues structure was changed to be $5 per household at the same address. The souvenir was a red Frolicking Bear spittoon. The whimseys made from it took in around $5,000.
Convention attendees set up fifty-one room displays. Four of these earned awards. Delbert and Jerry Hunter received first for a “Farm” display of bushel baskets and corn vases. Bill and Jenny Taylor’s Peacock display received second, Grace and Byron Rinehart’s red, white, and blue display was third. Carl and Eunice Booker received fourth for “It’s a Small World.” The membership award went to Rovene Heaton, and Leila Galvin of Australia came the farthest.
At the annual business meeting Mavis Loescher presented the nominations for directors and officers. They were Ea
st-Woody Funk; West-Don Moore, Central-Thelma Harmon; South-Louis Bradford, and At-large 1 and 2 Ivan Mitchell and Heather Helm. No nominations came from the floor and they were elected by acclamation. Jack Adams was re-elected president and Leonard Krimmel became vice president. Lee Markley, Nancy Williams, and Ferne Schroeder were re-appointed secretary, treasurer, and editor respectively. Hold-over directors were Tom Burns, Bob Lovell, Lucile Britt, Ken Osbon, Carl Booker, and Carl Schroeder. The convention adjourned after the breakfast to reconvene in St. Louis in 1983.
During early 1983 Marion Hartung passed away as did C. B. Carroll. The convention was held in late July and experienced a “hot time,” literally, as St. Louis was hot and the air conditioning at the motel overtaxed. The convention opened with a talk by Rovene Heaton on the founding and early days of the ICGA. The souvenir was a topaz opalescent Frolicking Bears spittoon with two finish treatments–pastel and marigold. The auction was again a member consignment with a commission split by the auctioneer and club. The Gateway Club of St. Louis served as hosts. The official registration figure was 233. The banquet attracted 196 and the breakfast 130-40. Entertainment was the Miss Kitty Show from Six Flags. During the course of the year the membership topped 1,400 with members from 48 states, Australia, Canada, England, and Switzerland.
At the annual business meeting the dues were increased to $10 per family per year. The new directors elected were Martin Stozus-East; Bob Lovell-South; Lucile Britt-Central; Wally McDaniel-West; and Carl Schroeder and Bob Gallo-At-large. Hold-over directors were Woody Funk, Louis Bradford, Thelma Harmon, Don Moore, Ivan Mitchell, and Heather Helm. Lee Markley, Nancy Williams, and Ferne Schroeder remained secretary, treasurer, and editor.
Awards were given to Bob McCaslin for most new members and Wally McDaniel for coming the farthest. Display awards presentedwent to Stan and Beverly Schnepp, first for “Ice Green, Ice Cream Party;” second, Bill and Jenny Taylor “Town and Country Carnival Glass Factory;” third, Grace and Byron Rinehart “Kittens Club, St. Louis;” fourth, Carl and Ferne Schroeder “Opals, Real Gems;” fifth, Henry and Beverly Hawk “Pick of the Patch;” and sixth-Bob and Dot Gallo “Treasures Found Just Digging Around.” The convention adjourned after the breakfast meeting.
Part Seven
In 1984 another carnival pioneer passed away. O. Joe Olson had been one of the founding members of the National or Society of Carnival Glass Collectors that was the first national group organized. He had been active in Carnival glass for years and published his own newsletter often raising some controversial issues.
The membership continued to hold at 1,400 with members in 48 states, Australia, England, and Canada. The convention was held in Ft. Mitchell, Ky., in June 1984, and was the fourteenth. New features occurred at this convention. Rick Kojis presented a seminar on ice blue Carnival, and Bob Vining did one on punch bowls. There was a raffle which offered a piece of Carnival in the $300-$400 range. A Display Room featuring a specific theme was held and has become a yearly feature and an ice cream party. The auction was conducted by Tom Burns and Bill Richards. The souvenir was a blue Lions rosebowl with Orange Tree exterior.
The annual business meeting was held on June 19. An honorary membership was presented to Frank Fenton. The election of officers took place. Thelma Harmon presented the nominees. Nominees for directors were East-Ann Heeley; South-Orion Olson; West-Don Moore; Central-Thelma Harmon; and At-large-Smokey Cloud, Larry Keig, and Harold Cox. There were no other nominations, and all were elected. Carl Schroeder was chosen vice president. Leonard Krimmel and Bob Lovell were nominated for president. Bob Lovell was elected. The secretary, treasurer, and editor remained Lee Markley, Nancy Willians, and Ferne Schroeder. Hold-over directors were Martin Stozus, Lucile Britt, Wally McDaniel, and Bob G
allo. Louis Bradford had passed away.
Margaret Dickinson came from Australia and Leila Calvin from Libya. Bob Lovell signed up the most new members. Display awards went to Bill and Jenny Taylor “Mr. Peacock and All His Colors,” first; Carl and Eunice Booker “Carnival Peep Show,” second; Harold and Arlene Cox “Mr. Peacock’s Ice Cream Party,” third; Fred and Noreen Andreatta “Brocade for the June Bride,” fourth; and “Down on the Farm” by Les and Brenda Peters, fifth. There were forty-six room displays.
The punch bowl display featured sixty-five punch bowls with only two duplications–the Aqua Opal Peacock at the Fountain. The convention closed after the Saturday breakfast.
The nineteenth convention was held in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, with Don and Barb Chamberlain and Larry Keig as chairpersons. During the time between conventions the membership dropped to 1,299 with members in 46 states, Australia, Canada, England, and New Zealand. Twenty new members joined at the convention.
In 1987 the passing of several long time Carnival Glass people occurred. Among them were Joe Presznick, Leslie Wolfe, Lucille Brien, Carl Schleede, Faye Corrothers, Edmund and Joan Beadman, Bea Gladson, and Delbert Hunter.
The 1987 convention was held July 28 – August 1 in St. Louis at the Holiday Inn. Leonard Krimmel was convention chairman and the Gateway Club hosted. Leonard was also in charge of the Display Room and was assisted by John Manhart. The theme was Enamelled Carnival Glass. Frank Fenton and Linda Iverson attended. Fran gave the banquet talk and Linda demonstrated the art of decorating glass. The souvenir was a green decorated pitcher. The convention unofficially began on Tuesday with the Early Bird party and ended with the Saturday breakfast. In between were the seminars and auction. One of the seminars concerned painted Carnival. The other was a Show and Tell session.
The convention was attended by 274 registrants who came from 26 states, Australia, and Canada. The Friday banquet was served to 176 and on Saturday 115 enjoyed the breakfast. Marge Dickinson came the farthest from Australia, and Don Moore had signed up the most new members. The Display winners were chosen from 46 registered displays. Bart and Sue Dooley won first place for “Singing Birds.” Second place went to Henry and Beverly Hawk for “Catch of the Day.” Third place was won by Bill and Betty Mason for “We Like Acorns, Too.” Audree and Ernest Pollock won fourth for “Art Deco,” and Harold and Arline Cox got fifth for “A Carnival Garden Has Weeds, Too.”
The auction was conducted by Gary Cooper assisted by Debbie and Maynard Bullock. Some of the glass was from the Al Rodenhouse collection. The auction total was $41,690.
The business meeting took place on Friday. At the meeting directors were elected. They were East-Larry Yung; Central-Leoanrd Krimmel; West-Marie McGee; South-Steve Davis; At-large #3-Gary Braden; and Atlarge #4-Bob Gallo. Jerry Hunter was appointed to fill the remainder of Delbert’s term. Lee Markley, Orion Olson, and Donna Braden remained secretary, treasurer, and editor. Hold-over directors were Ann Heeley, Diane Fry, Smokey Cloud, Thelma Harmon, Larry Keig, and A. G. Magan. The membership has risen to 1,509 and came from 47 states, Australia, Canada, England, and New Zealand. The convention adjourned on Saturday to reconvene in LaCrosse, Wisconsin, in 1988.
Part Eight
By the time the convention arrived in July (1988), the membership had increased to 1,643 members and represented 48 states, Australia, Canada, England, and New Zealand. This convention turned out to have the largest registration up to that time. Drawn by the anticipation of the Opalescent Rainbow, 316 people registered. They came from 23 states and Canada. The banquet was attended by 210 who heard Jack Adams, assisted by Mary, discuss many of the pieces they had brought from their collection. Early arrivals ate bratwurst. Members cruised the Mississippi on Wednesday and put away 18 gallons of ice cream that evening. Gary Cooper conducted the auction on Thursday. In the evening videos were shown of Don Moore’s talks. Al Rodenhouse presented a seminar on tumblers rarer than the Frolicking Bears, and Donna Braden held forth at Bits and Pieces. Governor Tommy Thompson flew in and addressed the convention at noon on Friday.
The business meeting was held Friday morning. The election of officers took place. Jerry Hunter and Thelma Harmon presented the nominating committee report. Nominated for president was Carl Schroeder and vice president Bob Gallo. Uncontested directors elected were Bob Brown-South; Central-Geneva Good; West-John Muehlbauer; At-large #1 Rick Kojis; and At-large #2- Rod Sutfin. In a contest for East director between Donna Courts and Mildred Markley, Donna was elected. Lee Markley, Orion Olson, and Donna Braden remained secretary, treasurer, and editor.
Awards for best displays went to Bart and Sue Dooley first for “On the Back Forty;” second-La Nell Says for “Chattanooga Shoe, Shoe;” third-Rod and Joan Sutfin for “Vaseline Can Help the Carnival Glass Itch;” fourth-Henry and Bonnie Vetterli for “Harvest Time;” and fifth-Harold and Arline Cox for “Mississippi Cat Fish.” Gail Westphall came the farthest and Don Moore signed up the most new members. The convention closed after Eunice Booker installed the new officers. The souvenir was a topaz opalescent handled open-edge basket.
The 1989 convention was hosted by the Hoosier Club in Elkhart, Indiana, from July 26-29. It opened on Tuesday evening with an Early Bird meal. Wednesday brought another ice cream party. The auction of Isaak and Annette Somershein’s glass took place Thursday afternoon. Later Bob and Geneva Leonard displayed and talked about table sets. The Display Room featured vases, and the souvenir, a blue decorated Thumbprint and Ovals vase, was made in a run of 215. A Bits and Pieces program also took place.
The membership had grown to 1,787 by convention time. It represented members in 46 states, Australia, Great Britain, Canada, and New Zealand. Of that number 348 registered for the convention and came from 27 states, Canada, and Australia. The banquet attracted 220 and there were 44 room displays. Alf and Margaret Howard received the distance award, and Don Moore signed up the most members. Display Awards went to Bart and Sue Dooley, first for “Nick’s Barbershop;” second-Larry and Mary Helen Yung for “Poppy Love;” third-Bill and Jennie Taylor for “Peacock Heaven;” fourth to Carl and Ferne Schroeder for “Kimi’s Bed and Breakfast;” and fifth to Bob and Jane Brown’s “Texas Round-up.”
At the 23rd annual business meeting, held Friday morning, new directors were elected. They were East- Bart Dooley; West-Marie McGee; South-Maxine Gibson; Central-Leonard Krimmel, and At-large-Gary Braden and Rod Sutfin. Hold-over directors were Donna Courts, Geneva Good, Bob Brown, John Muehlbauer, Rick Kojis, and Jim Jander. Reappointed secretary, treasurer, and editor were Lee Markley, Orion Olson, and Donna Braden. After the installation the convention adjourned to meet in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, in 1990.
Part Nine
The twenty-fourth annual convention was held July 11-14, 1990, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, at the Holiday Inn. The Display Room featured compotes, and the souvenir was a green decorated covered compote made by Fenton. The convention opened on Tuesday evening with the Early Bird party featuring barbecue pork sandwiches. On Wednesday Ray and Rae Ann Hitchcock gave a seminar on plates. Afterward there was a Question and Answer session. The evening’s activities featured the ice cream party. Thursday saw the auction of glass from the Harold and Virginia Ludemann collection with Gary Cooper as auctioneer.
The annual business meeting was held on Friday morning during which the election of officers was held. Jim Jander presented the list of nominees. As there were three nominees for two At-large seats, ballots were passed out and Bob Gallo and Jim Jander were elected. Carl Schroeder and Reg Dunham were chosen president and vice-president. The new directors selected were East-Donna Courts; Central-Geneva Good; South-Richard Cinclair; and West-John Muehlbauer. Appointed secretary, treasurer, and editor were Lee Markley, Orion Olson, and Donna Braden. Hold-over directors were Bart Dooley, Leonard Krimmel, Maxine Gibson, Marie McGee, Gary Braden, and Rod Sutfin.
At Friday’s banquet John and Lucile Britt presented the banquet talk on rarities. Frank Fenton had made a presentation on old and new glass earlier in the afternoon. This had been one of the larger conventions in attendance with about 400 at the auction. The membership award went to Don Moore, and Allen and Anne Blanchard came the farthest from Australia. From the fifty-two displays the following awards were given, first-Bart and Sue Dooley, “Ice House Blues;” second- Harold and Arline Cox, “We’ve Come a Long Way, Baby;” third-Dennis and Denise Harp, “An American Dream;” fourth-Stan and Bev Schnepp, “Just Hearts and Flowers;” and fifth-Norm and Geneva Good, “Good Ole Daze Ice Cream Party.” The convention adjourned on Saturday after Eunice Booker installed the new officers. The membership was 1,812 in 48 states, Australia, Canada, Great Britain, and New Zealand. Bob Vining passed away in October and Kitty seven months later.
St. Louis, Missouri, was the site of the silver anniversary convention which was held at the Holiday Inn West-Airport from July 23-27, 1991. Leonard and Janet Krimmel were convention chairmen with assistance from the Gateway Club. Since it was the 25th convention, the Display Room featured white Carnival Glass with Reg and Linda Dunham in charge. The Early Bird party took place on Tuesday and featured sugar cured ham sandwiches. Charter members had been issued special invitations and were honored by being given lifetime memberships. Bob Stremming gave a seminar on rosebowls on Wednesday afternoon. In the evening the ice cream party occurred.
Thursday saw Gary Cooper auction Gus and Vivian Van De Pere’s glass with a total in the six figures. After the annual business meeting on Friday morning, Marie McGee presented a seminar on Millersburg glass. The banquet attendees, 208, were entertained by a musical group with dancing.
There were 344 registered for the convention from 31 states, Australia, Canada, and Great Britain. This marked the first time a convention was attended by members from Great Britain. The Oldfields and the Thistlewoods came over. Margaret Dickinson also came from Australia. Richard Cinclair had signed up the most members. The membership stood at 1,912 from 49 States, Australia, Canada, Great Britain, and New Zealand.
The number of displays was 62. Bart and Sue Dooley received first place for “Aftermath of 25 Years and 250,000 Miles.” Sec
ond place went to Dennis and Denise Harp for “ICGA 25 Years of Shining the Light in Carnival Glass.” Stand and Bev Schnepp won third for “Silver Mine.” Fourth place went to Reg and Linda Dunham’s “The Glass Is Greener on the Other Side of the Fence.” Norm and Geneva Good got fifth place for “25th Anniversary Cake.” The souvenir was a French Opal decorated melon rib pitcher made by Fenton.
Officers elected at the business meeting were East-Bart Dooley; Central-Leonard Krimmel; South-Maxine Gibson; West-Marie McGee; At-large #3-Gary Braden; and At-large #4-Rod Sutfin. Lee Markley, Orion Olson, and Donna Braden were re-appointed secretary, treasurer, and editor. Hold-over directors were Donna Courts, Geneva Good, Richard Cinclair, John Muehlbauer, Bob Gallo, and Jim Jander. The convention adjourned on Saturday after the new directors were installed by Eunice Booker.
Part Ten
1992: Between the conventions Bill Dawson of Illinois, a long time ICGA member and Don Moore, author and convention speaker, and Vivian Van De Pere passed away.
Minneapolis, Minnesota, was the site of the 26th convention which was held at the Crown Sterling Suites Hotel from July 7 – 10, 1992. Richard Thompson was the convention chairman. The convention began on Tuesday with an Early Bird gathering in the Atrium. Wednesday was a busy day with the Display Room set up, two seminars, and the ice cream party. Jim Seeck presented a seminar on estate auctions. In the afternoon John Mikkonen brought their collection of Fenton Holly pattern and discussed the various pieces. A Question and Answer session followed at 3:00.
The auction occurred on Thursday with Jim Seeck as auctioneer and totaled just over $119,000. George and Mavis Loescher presented a seminar on rarities and oddities from their collection and entertained members with their collecting experiences. George had first attended an ICGA convention in Springfield and has not missed one since.
The convention was attended by 258 who came from 26 states, Australia, Canada, and England. On Friday 175 attended the banquet and were entertained by Granny, a highly humorous comedienne. The souvenir was a green footed Panther plate in keeping with the Display Room theme of 9” plates. A group picture was also taken.
The business meeting was held Friday morning. The election of officers took place. Bob Gallo presented the nominating committee report. Since there were no nominations from the floor, the slate was elected by acclamation. Reg Dunham became president and Bob Cyza vice-president. Directors elected were East-Bob Gallo; Central-Geneva Good; South-Richard Cinclair; West-Todd Kuwitzky; At-large #1-Carlton Tarkington; and At-large #2-Jim Jander. Lee Markley, Orion Olson, and Donna Braden were re-appointed secretary, treasurer, and editor. The hold-over directors were Bart Dooley, Leonard Krimmel, Maxine Gibson, Marie McGee, Gary Braden, and Rod Sutfin.
The distance award went to John and Margaret McGrath of New South Wales. Don and Connie Moore won the membership award. Thirty-five displays were registered. Receiving first place were Rick and Jackie Kojis for “Looking at the World through Aqua Opal Glass.” Harold and Arline Cox won second for “Carnival Glass Olympics.” Third place went to Mary Krueger for “Any one for Punch?”. Sue and Bart Dooley received fourth for “Lettered Pieces,” and J. Dee and Beverly Widner fifth for “We Search the World Over.”
The membership had risen to 2,035 with members in 49 states, Australia, Canada, Great Britain, and New Zealand. The convention closed on Saturday after the officers were installed by Eunice Booker.
Later in 1992 longtime charter member and former treasurer Mildred Mummert passed away. Fern Reichel, wife of Lloyd also passed away between conventions. By the next convention the membership dropped to 1,976 and represented 50 states, Australia, Canada, Great Britain, New Zealand, and Sweden.
From July 27 – 31, 1993, the 27th convention took place at the Embassy Suites North in Indianapolis. Longtime and charter members Bryon and Juanita Gentry’s collection was sold at the auction by Jim Seeck. It totaled about $87,000. The Display Room featured mugs and the souvenir was a large size marigold Frolicking Bears tumbler. Elmer and Lourdes spent their honeymoon at the convention. The Hoosier Club hosted this convention which was attended by 273 from 27 states, Canada, and Great Britain. The banquet was served to 145 who were entertained by a musical group. The whimseys were auctioned bringing a total of $7,500.
Dave and Joan Doty presented a seminar on photographing Carnival Glass on Wednesday. Following this at 2:00 John and Lucile Britt talked about mugs. Later a question and answer session took place and then in the evening the ice cream party was held. On Friday afternoon Carl and Ferne Schroeder related how they had got started and how their collection grew over the years.
The business meeting took place on Friday morning. Because of increased costs for the newsletter, the dues were raised
to $15 per family. Nominated for directors were East-Gary Heckenberger; Central-Carl Booker; South-Don Hamlet; West-Tom Cunningham; At-large #3-Bart Dooley; and At-large #4-Stephen Thistlewood. Lee Markley, Orion Olson, and Donna Braden were reappointed secretary, treasurer, and editor. Hold-over directors were Bob Gallo, Geneva Good, Richard Cinclair, Todd Kuwitzky, Carlton Tarkington, and Jim Jander.
The Thistlewoods came the farthest. There were 31 displays. They Display awards went to Bart and Sue Dooley-first for “just the Icing on the Cake;” second- Larry and Mary Helen Yung for “Dugan’s Dump;” third-Dennis and Denise Harp for “We Make No Bones about Our Wishes;” fourth-Bill and Jennie Taylor, “Peacocks;” and fifth-Norm and Geneva Good,
“Settin’ Hens.” The convention adjourned on Saturday after Eunice Booker installed the directors.
Several long time members passed away between conventions: Richard Noonan, Bill McNamara, Kevin Moore, Smokey Cloud, Byron Rinehart, and Bernice Mann.
The June 1994 issue of The Pump also marked the end of the series of articles with color inserts by Don Moore. The ICGA membership increased to 2,016 with members in 47 states, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and Sweden. The 1994 convention site was Schaumburg, Illinois, at the Embassy Suites from July 7 -10. It was attended by 243 members from 22 states, Australia, Canada, Great Britain, and New Zealand.
Margaret Bryant attended from New Zealand and the Thistlewoods signed up the most members. The banquet was served to 149. Gary Lickvar had come the farthest in the U. S. The 29 displays resulted in awards going to Bart and Sue Dooley-first, “Who Laid the Golden Egg?”; second-Rod and Joan Sutfin “Worth Our Weight inMarigold;” third-Roger and Cathy Dunham “Two Have Become One;” fourth-Larry and Mary Helen Yung “Orange Three;” and fifth Mike and Cheryl Owen “Fabulous Fenton Baskets.”
Harold Cox presented a seminar on chop plates. Dick Clough and Reg Dunham talked about water pitchers. A Show
and Tell session on etched and engraved glass also took plate. The Display Room featured Dugan patterns. The auction was conducted by Jim Seeck and was glass from Richard and Mary Noonan.
The business meeting was held Friday morning for the 28th convention. Directors elected were East-Bob Gallo; Central-Geneva Good; South-Richard Cinclair; West- Todd Kuwitzky; At-large #1-Carlton Tarkington; and At-large #2-Jim Jander. Reg Dunham was re-elected president and Bob Cyza vice president. Hold-over directors were Gary Heckenberger, Carl Booker, Don Hamlet, Tom Cunningham, Stephen Thistlewood, and Bart Dooley. Lee Markley, Orion Olson, and Donna Braden remained secretary, treasurer, and editor. The officers were installed at the banquet by Eunice Booker. The souvenir was a red Diamond and Rib JIP vase.
Part Eleven
In 1995 the convention was hosted by the Texas Club in Dallas, Texas, from August 1-4 at the Bristol Suites. The auction glass came from Vaunda and Swede Tilberg’s collection and was auctioned by Jim Seeck on Thursday. The theme of the Display Room was Imperial’s Geometrics under the direction of Carl and Eunice Booker. Jim Seeck presented a seminar on damage on Tuesday. On Wednesday morning Dean and Diane Fry gave a talk on plates and Steve Davis talked on compotes in the afternoon. The ice cream party took place in the evening. On Friday a huge display of red Carnival was discussed by Richard Cinclair, Bob Allaire, and Joyce Seale. The banquet was held Friday evening. The souvenir was an ice blue Acanthus plate.
The convention was attended by 224 from 30 states, Australia, and England. The banquet was served to 125. John McGrath, Jr., from Australia, dropped by on his around-the-world trip and received the distance award. Richard Cinclair signed up the most new members. Display awards went to Bev and J. Dee Widner, “Seven Days of Carnival;” Roger and Cathy Dunham “Singing in the Orange Grove;” Bart and Sue Dooley “Christmas;” Mike and Cheryl Owen “Fenton Holly;” Carl and Ferne Schroeder “Carl’s Carnival Corral;” and Jack and Eleanor Hamilton “I’ll Drink To That.” Marv Loughmiller received an award from the Thistlewoods for traveling the farthest in the U.S.
At the 29th business meeting Carl Booker presented the nominees for directors: East-Sharon Mizell; Central-Carl Booker; South-Dick Hostetler; West-Marie McGee; At-large #3-Bart Dooley; and At-large #4- Stephen Thistlewood. Diane Fry nominated Judy Maxwell for West director. Ballots were passed out and Judy Maxwell was elected. The other directors were elected by acclamation. Re-appointed secretary, treasurer, and editor were Lee Markley, Orion Olson, and Donna Braden. The convention adjourned on Friday after the banquet and installation of directors.
The year witnessed the passing of Dot Gallo, Rovene Heaton, Rebecca Tarkington, and Curtis Black. The membership was 1,847 from 46 states, Australia, Canada, Great Britain, and New Zealand. The year also saw the color inserts continued with Richard Cinclair writing and Dave Doty doing the pictures.
The Great Lakes Club hosted the 30th convention in Lansing, Michigan, at the Sheraton from June 25-29. 1996. The souvenir was a green 7 inch Grape and Cable plate. The Display Room theme was Northwood’s Grape and Cable. Cathy Dunham and Bert Doubler were in charge. The convention was attended by 205 who registered. The banquet was served to 134 and around 100 were served at breakfast. Twenty-two states and Canada were represented. The Berkelos from Alaska came the farthest. Carl Schroeder received the membership award. Seminars were presented by Bob and Geneva Leonard on “Table Sets,” Janet Knechtel on “A Little Bit of Everything,” and Donna Courts “A Collector’s Dream.” The banquet entertainment was a folk group called “Second Opinion.”
A list of nominees for president, vice-president, and directors was presented at the business meeting. Bob Cyza was elected president and Richard Cinclair vice president. Directors elected were East-Jerry Delan; Central-Geneva Good; South-Don Grizzle; West-Diane Fry; and At-large-Bob Gallo and Jim Jander. Harold Cox was appointed to fill the rest of Carl Booker’s term as Central Director. Carl Booker became editor as Donna Braden retired. Lee Markley and Orion Olson remained secretary and treasurer. The hold-over directors were Sharon Mizell, Dick Hostetler, Judy Maxwell, Stephen Thistlewood, and Bart Dooley.
Changes were made in the convention schedule to have the auction and banquet on Saturday. With the convention to begin officially on Thursday and end Sunday morning. Five displays received awards. They were Eileen Nelson-”Elegant Orange Stuff;” “From Our House to You” by Mark and Paula Richter; “Mrs. Hattie Pinn’s Dilemma” by Bart and Sue Dooley, and “Carnival–A Family Affair” by the Dunham and Doubler families. The convention closed after the officers were installed by Eunice Booker. The membership was 1,707 from 45 states, Australia, Canada, England, New Zealand, and Scotland.
The 31st convention took place in Dayton, Ohio, at the Holiday Inn July 30 – August 2, 1997. The Display Room featured Millersburg. Bob and Sandi Nehring were in charge. Donna and Bob Courts, the Larry Yungs, and the Larry Yung, Jrs., were hosts. John and Carolyn Mikkonen presented a seminar on Holly Rarities at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, and Stephen and Glen Thistlewood gave an International View of Carnival Glass. The ice cream social was that evening. John and Lucile Britt were scheduled to talk on Carnival Rarities on Friday, but were unable to attend because of illness.
At Saturday’s banquet Floyd Whitley had everyone in stitches with his talk. Jim Seeck conducted the auction of the Nelson collection. The souvenir was an Amethyst Opal Frolicking Bears tumbler with 250 made. Richard Cinclair signed up the most members.
The attendance at Dayton was 320. People came from 30 states, Canada, and England. Mark Oldfield edged the Thistlewoods for coming the farthest. Dean and Diane Fry came the greatest distance within the U.S. Display awards were presented to Bill and Carole Richards-fifth for “Our Bounty from Holmes County:” Fred and Betty Johnson, fourth for “Please Don’t Pick the Berries;” third, Eileen Nelson “A Carnival Christmas;” second – Bart and Sue Dooley “A Roadside Collection;” and first – Larry and Mary Helen Yung “White Out.”
The business meeting took place Friday morning. The main item was a dues’ raise to $20 per family domestic with $25 overseas. The election resulted in the selection of Bill Mizell-East director; Harold Cox – Central; South – Dick Hostetler; West-Judy Maxwell; At-large #3 – Carl Schroeder, and At-large #4 – Bart Dooley. Lee Markley, Orion Olson, and Carl Booker were reappointed secretary, treasurer, and editor. The convention closed Saturday after the banquet. The membership had increased to 1,800. It represented 48 states, Australia, Canada, England, Italy, New Zealand, and Scotland.
Part Twelve
The convention site for 1998 was Kansas City, Missouri. It featured items from John and Lucile Britt’s collection. It was the 32nd and began June 25 and ended June 29. Early in the year John passed away. Roland Kuhn also passed away. Activities included seminars on Celeste Blue and Sapphire Blue by Tom Mordini, and Ardonna Bucher discussing Dragon and Lotus. George Loescher with the help of Mavis gave the banquet talk describing their collecting experiences while showing some of their prized acquisitions. The Display Room featured Birds and was arranged by the Nehrings.
The business meeting produced a surprise when Bob Cyza declined a second term. Bob Gallo gave the nominating committee report. It included Richard Cinclair for president; Tom Mordini vice-president; Janet Knechtel-East; Diane Fry-West; Geneva Good- Central; South-Don Grizzle; At-large #1-Brian Pitman; and At-large #2 Bob Gallo. With no further nominations, they were elected. Lee Markley, Orion Olson, and Carl Booker were reappointed secretary, treasurer, and editor. Hold-over directors were Harold Cox, Dick Hostetler, Judy Maxwell, Bill Mizell, Carl Schroeder, and Bart Dooley.
There were 252 registered and 142 attended the banquet. There were 42 first-time attendees. Richard Cinclair received the membership award. The Richard Thornes from Kingston, Washington, came the farthest. There were 28 displays. First place went to Bart and Sue Dooley for “Pumped Up Over Carnival;” second to Will and Judy Schutz, “Carnival Glass All Around the House;” Elliot Treby, third for “A Bouquet of Pansies;” fourth-Dick and Jennie Hostetler, “Proud As a Peacock;” and Gale Eichhorst, “Mikado by Fenton;” fifth.
The convention closed after the banquet to reconvene in Schaumburg, Illinois, in 1999 from August 4-8 at the Embassy Suites.
During the summer Charles Echols, Eldon Germann, Bob Gallo, and Leonard Krimmel passed away. The 33rd convention was attended by 205. They represented 29 states, Australia, England, and Canada. The banquet was served to 115. The souvenir was a green Santa Claus in keeping with the Christmas theme of the Display Room. There were 21 displays. The Display Awards went to Bart and Sue Dooley-first “Check My List;” Carl and Ferne Schroeder second for “Christmas in Kendall;” third-Gale Eichhorst for “Santa’s Foreign Gifts;” fourth Will and Judy Schutz- ”Our Flower Garden of Glass;” and Carl and Eunice Booker’s “If the Shoe Fits,” fifth.
Activities during the convention included a seminar on technology by Brian Pitman, Carnival Jeopardy conducted by Jan and Jim Seeck, Tom Mordini moderating the Ultimate Piece, Jeff Thrasher’s seminar on Australian Carnival, meet the authors, and Carl and Eunice Booker’s banquet talk.
The business meeting saw these directors elected: Judy Maxwell-West; Bill Mizell-East; Harold Cox-Central; South-Dick Hostetler; At-Large #3-Carl Schroeder; and At-Large #4-Bart Dooley. Richard Cinclair reappointed Lee Markley, Orion Olson, and Carl Booker secretary, treasurer, and editor. Hold-over directors were Janet Knechtel, Geneva Good, Don Grizzle, and Brian Pitman. Selina Steele and Dennis Harp were selected to fill vacancies on the board.
The membership as of the convention was 1706 representing 46 states, Australia, Canada, England, Italy, and New Zealand. After Eunice Booker installed the directors at the banquet, the convention closed to reconvene in Des Moines, Iowa, for the last convention of the 20th century at the Embassy Suites from June 28 – July 1, 2000.
Seven ICGA Presidents at One Convention.
Bob Lovell, Carl Schroeder, Brian Pitman, Tom Mordini,
Richard Cinclair, Bob Cyza and Reg Dunham.
Part Thirteen
The 34th convention was held in Des Moines, Iowa, from June 28 to July 1, 2000, at the Embassy Suites. It was attended by 143 members who came from 19 states, Australia, and Canada. The banquet was served to 75. Alan and Anne Blanchard came the farthest from Edgewater, Western Australia. The Display Room featured Fenton Carnival Glass and was arranged by Janet Knechtel and Diane Beitz. There were 14 displays in the rooms with Bart and Sue Dooley receiving the first place award. Dr. Larry Keig with the help of Don and Barb chamberlain presented a seminar on Dugan glass. The ebullient Gale Eichhorst told us all about Carnival Glass from A to Z, and Judy Maxwell was the banquet speaker.
At the business meeting directors elected were Janet Knechtel – East; Will Schutz – Central; Randy Poucher – South; Selina Steele – West; Brian Pitman – At Large No. 1; and Todd Kuwitzky – At-Large No. 2. Officers chosen were Richard Cinclair, president and Tom Mordini, vice president. The holdover directors were Bill Mizell, Harold Cox, Dick Hostetler, Judy Maxwell, Carl Schroeder, and Bart Dooley. Lee Markley, Orion Olson, and Carl Booker were reappointed secretary, treasurer, and editor respectively.
For the next convention the Display Room theme was announced as the Ultimate Piece, Pete and Paula Bingham would give one of the seminars, and the banquet speaker was to be Mary Eastwood. A new feature was to be an Awards Luncheon to honor members who had contributed to the organization over the years. the first two to be honored were Orion Olson and Lee Markley for their service as treasurer and secretary. The convention closed after Eunice Booker installed the new officers and directors at the banquet.
During the course of the year between the Schaumburg and Des Moines conventions five charter members passed away: Bud Heeley, Helen Hamilton, Charlotte Jamieson, and Albert and Anna Tice. Dorothy Coppin of Canada also had passed away. The membership continued to decline and stood at 1,459 by convention time from 45 states, Australia, Canada, England, Italy, and New Zealand.
The site of the 35th convention was the Embassy Suites North in Indianapolis from July 17 to July 22, 2001. The third week in July had been made the permanent meeting month at the Des Moines meeting. Part of Dr. Allen Jones’ collection was sold as well as that of Thelma Harmon. Events included seminars by Pete and Paula Bingham and David Cotton; the Awards Luncheon, Ultimate Piece seminar by Tom Mordini; Brian Pitman’s Game Show, and the banquet program put on by Bubba and Bobo substituting for Mary Eastwood who was “ill.” They turned out to be Bruce Steele and Bob Patterson.
The convention was attended by 243 who came from 24 states and Canada. The Awards Luncheon was served to 93 and the banquet to 140. Don and Barb Chamberlain were in charge of the Display Room. Members set up 22 displays. The top five awards went to Will and Judy Schutz, Roger and Cathy Dunham, Joe and Shirley Williams, Larry and Mary Helen Yung, and Amanda Dunham. Richard Cinclair received the membership award and Bruce and Selina Steele the Distance Traveled Award.
The new directors were elected at the business meeting. They were Bill Mizell – East; Vicki Gearhart – Central; Dick Hostetler – South; Judy Maxwell – West; Carl Schroeder – At-large #3; and Bart Dooley – At-large #4. Lee Markley, Orion Olson, and Carl Booker were reappointed secretary, treasurer, and editor respectively. Tom Mordini was elected President, and Brian Pitman was elected Vice President. In addition Barb Chamberlain was elected as assistant treasurer to take over upon Ole’s retirement. Gale Eichhorst would serve as assistant souvenir chairman to Dick Hostetler.
New features besides the Awards Luncheon instituted were an internet Web site for the ICGA and dues payment through Paypal. The convention adjourned after the banquet to reconvene in St. Louis for 2002.
The membership had fallen again and was at 1,393 with members coming from 46 states, Australia, Canada, England, Italy, and Sweden. The six states with the most were Illinois, Indiana, Texas, Ohio, Wisconsin, and California.
Several members passed away during the course of the year. they included Fred Andreatta, Angie Cash, Lady May Kearby, Harold Markley, Sue Dooley, Marge Almquist, Wes Bicksler, Faye Allaire, Joe Corrothers, Russill Bibbee, Eleanor Hart, Chuck Kremer, Garth Irby, James Waugh, and Corine Ward. The souvenir was a vaseline opal Frolicking Bears cuspidor.
Part Fourteen
The 2002 convention was held in St. Louis at the Ramada Inn from July 16 – 20, and was the 36th. The theme for the convention was Red, White, and Blue in 2002. Joe and Shirley Williams were in charge of the display room. the usual early bird pizza party opened the convention on Tuesday evening. On Wednesday, John and Loretta Nielsen presented “Big Is Better,” and the ice cream party was held that evening.
The awards luncheon honoring Carl and Eunice Booker and Dick and Jennie Hostetler was held Thursday noon. The new officers were Tom Mordini, President; Brian Pitman, Vice-President; directors – Janet Knechtel, East; Pat Rottshaefer, West; Will Schutz, Central; Randy Poucher, South; Dave Doty, At-Large #1; and Gale Eichhorst, At-Large #2. Barb Chamberlain, Lee Markley, and Carl booker were appointed treasurer, secretary, and editor. Holdover directors were Bill Mizell, Vicki Gearhart, Dick Hostetler, Judy Maxwell, Carl Schroeder, and Bart Dooley.
In the evening Brian Pitman and Donna Braden presided at the Live Horse racing contest. On Friday Jim and Kelani Lee’s seminar “In the Beginning” occurred. Tom Mordini presented the Ultimate Piece Show.
The convention was attended by 173 from 22 states, Australia, and Canada. One hundred two attended the awards luncheon and the banquet was served to 123. The membership award went to Richard Cinclair, and Eric and Jo Ebbs came from Australia. The display awards went to Phil and Nancy Gilliland, Will and Judy Schutz, Amanda Dunham, Don Lacock, and Larry and Mary Helen Yung. One of the features was a caricaturist who drew members’ “portraits.” The convention adjourned to meet in Indianapolis in 2003.
A decline in membership to 1351 occurred. Members hailed from 45 states, Australia, Canada, England, Italy, Scotland, and Sweden. Charter members who passed away were Jack Ferguson and Many Noonan. Others who died were Juanita Bicksler, June Tomczak, Bonnie Kawitsky, Betty Mason, Woody Funk, Jean Spierling, Audree Pollock, Dick Sage, and Bert Huff.
From July 15 – 19, 2003, Indianapolis was the location of the 37th annual convention. Several events took place during the convention besides all the eating. Cathy and Roger Dunham hosted the display room which featured bon bons and one handled nappies. Bob and Geneva Leonard were honored at the awards luncheon which also served as the business meeting.
Tom Mordini did the Ultimate Piece seminar and Bob and Geneva presented their seminar on Friday. Brian Pitman came up with another game contest that developed into a game of Charades between Team Indiana and Team texas. Indiana finally won. At the banquet Friday, David, Amy, and Camellia Ayers talked about and displayed glass made in Australia. Pat Rottschaefer installed the new officers and directors. The Board appointed Brian Pitman as president and Eunice Booker as vice-president. Tom Mordini had resigned after one year due to health problems. Brian became the youngest person to serve as president and Eunice agreed to finish out his term as vice-president.
Directors elected at the business meeting were Bill Mizell, East; Dick Hostetler, South; Vicki Gearhart, Central; Judy Maxwell, West; Carl Schroeder, At-Large #3; and Bart Dooley, At-Large #4. Display award winners were Larry and Mary Helen Yung, Michael and Shelly Swope, Cathy and Roger Dunham, Carl and Eunice Booker, and Harold Cox.
In attendance at the convention were seven past or present presidents. They were Brian Pitman, Bob Lovell, Carl Schroeder, Tom Mordini, Richard Cinclair, Bob Cyza, and Reg Dunham. The only living ones not there were Sam Wolfe and Jack Adams. Three charter members, Bill Crowl, and Bob and Mary McCaslin, were there.
ICGA membership, like that of other clubs, continued to decline. It was 1,276 located in 44 states, Australia, Canada, England, Italy, and Sweden. the only state with more than 100 members was Indiana.
Several long time members passed away including Arline Cox, June Germann, and Ken Clark. One charter member, Florence Brown, also died as did Bill Fenton and Larry Robards. The souvenir for 2003 was a green Frolicking Bears JIP vase.
Part Fifteen
St. Louis, Missouri, was the site for the 38th convention. It was held at the Crowne Plaza from July 13 to July 17, 2004. This convention marked the introduction of breakfast seminars and painting your own souvenir whimseys.
The breakfast seminars each lasted about fifteen minutes. John and Loretta Nielsen started with a quiz before discussing the items they brought. On Thursday, Harold Cox presented the next one by telling stories about the pieces he had brought. On Friday, Bud and Gladys Martin talked about some of their unusual finds over the years.
A first for the ICGA were attendees from Argentina. They were Jorge Perri and Jorge Dunholde of Buenos Aires. The Oldfields had also come from England. Besides these overseas visitors, one hundred forty-eight members came from twenty-four states and Canada. It was fitting because the Display Room theme was “International Carnival Glass.” Janet Knechtel and Diane Beitz were once again in charge and had arranged the display by country of manufacture. The glass in the room was used as the basis for their seminar on Friday.
Reg and Linda Dunham were speakers on Thursday and talked about what pieces they would keep if they had to sell and why they would keep them. Carl and Ferne Schroeder were honored at the Awards Luncheon which was also the business meeting. Brian presented a slide show based on ICGA history.
The election of officers was the main order of business. Brian Pitman was elected president and Phil Hessenius became vice-president. Directors elected were Janet Knechtel – East; Ted Meeker – Central; John Nielsen – South; John Lee – West; Gale Eichhorst – At- large No. 1; and Rick Stockhill – At-large No. 2. Lee Markley, Barb Chamberlain, and Carl Booker were reappointed secretary, treasurer, and editor respectively. The holdover directors were Bill Mizell, Dick Hostetler, Vicki Gearhart, Judy Maxwell, Carl Schroeder, and Bart Dooley.
There were seventy who attended the Awards Luncheon and one-hundred nine were at the banquet. Display awards went to Cathy and Roger Dunham, Lawrence VanderWerff, Don Lacock, Jennie and Dick Hostetler, and Ted and Judy Meeker. There were sixteen displays. The souvenir was a blue Frolicking Bears spittoon. Eunice Booker installed the new officers and the convention closed.
The total membership was one thousand seventy-two (1,072). Members from forty-two states, Australia, Canada, England, Italy, New Zealand, Scotland, and Sweden belonged. Eighty-one belonged from outside the U. S. The top five states in membership were Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Wisconsin, and California. The year saw the deaths of George Loescher, Norene Duran, Dick Ott, Glenn Clark, Henry Ward, Ward Atwater, Mary Esther Hoblitt, Libby Cotton, and Nina Tokar.
The Radisson Airport Hotel was the site of the thirty-ninth annual convention in Indianapolis. The attendance was one hundred fifty-six. Members came from twenty-five states, Canada, and ‘Sweden. The attendance at the banquet was one hundred twenty-two.
Three breakfast seminars were presented by Hoosier members. Harry Meads presented the first one on Wednesday talking about pieces from their collection. Geneva Crosby did the Thursday morning one. She stressed the beauty of the glass as opposed to the rarity. On Friday, Carl Booker presented stories about various pieces written by their owners.
The Display Room featured red Carnival Glass. It was organized by Ted Meeker and Tom Miller. Richard Cinclair gave the seminar on the pieces displayed, discussing what constituted quality red. On Friday Phil Hessenius, whose glass was being sold in the auction, told about his experiences acquiring “My Favorite Things.”
Other events included the pizza party on Tuesday for the early arrivals and the ice cream party on Wednesday. On Thursday, the luncheon-business meeting occurred. Only directors were elected. They were Bill Mizell – East; Roger Dunham – Central; Bud Martin – South; Darlene Grogan – West; Don Kime – At-large No. 3; and Janet Tate – At-large No. 4. Holdover directors were Janet Knechtel, Ted Meeker, John Nielsen, John Lee, Gale Eichhorst, and Rick Stockhill. The secretary, treasurer, and editor were reappointed. They were Lee Markley, Barb Chamberlain, and Carl Booker.
At the banquet Gary and Donna Braden were the speakers. They had brought special pieces from their collection and related stories about how each one had been acquired. Display awards were given to Larry and Mary Helen Yung, Gale Eichhorst, Ted and Judy Meeker, Carl and Eunice Booker, and Jim and Darlene Grogan. The members had set up twenty-five displays. The Distance Award was presented to Sven and Vivien Arweson who came from Sweden. The membership award went to Richard Cinclair. Another feature was a scavenger hunt developed by Don Chamberlain. The souvenir was a purple Frolicking Bears cuspidor.
The convention ended after the banquet to reconvene in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, for the 40th one at the Mariott.
There were one thousand seventy-six (1,076) members who were from forty-two states, Argentina, Australia, Canada, England, Italy, New Zealand, Scotland, and Sweden. The five with the most members were Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Wisconsin, and Texas. A new roster also was printed by Brian Pitman by computer. The past year had seen the passing of Frank Fenton, Velma Stinchcomb, Libby Frank, and Randy Poucher.
One of the innovative ideas Brian Pitman, president, had proposed for the 40th convention in Cedar Rapids was a Flash Mob Themed series of display rooms. There were three and each lasted but a day, was dismantled, and another set up the next day. John and Loretta Nielsen oversaw the first one on Wednesday which featured wine sets and was titled “Kisses Sweeter Than Wine.” They presented the seminar in the evening after the ice cream social.
Don and Barb Chamberlain organized the Display Room for Thursday that featured Northwood vases. The evening program on these vases was given by Kevin and April Clark. “Glow Little Glow Worm” was set up on Friday in time for the banquet. The idea was to have dinner by the light of the glow of vaseline glass. Cathy and Roger Dunham were in charge, assisted by the rest of the Dunham clan. Cathy gave the talk and explained what made the glass glow.
The breakfast seminars were given by the Iowans. Don and Barb Chamberlain, Jim Seeck, and Joe Williams were the presenters. On Thursday sixty-six took the bus trip to the Amana Colonies. The luncheon was held there, also. There were one hundred forty-three who registered for the convention. They came from twenty-three states and Canada. Darlene Grogan received the Distance Award and Richard Cinclair the Membership Award. Twenty displays were set up. The Display Awards went to Fred Stone and Ann McMorris, Cathy and Roger Dunham, Ted and Judy Meeker, Reg and Linda Dunham, and Barb and Don Chamberlain. Don had also prepared the Scavenger Hunt contest.
The 40th annual business meeting took place Thursday morning. Election of officers was held. Brian Pitman was chosen president and Phil Hessenius vicepresident. Directors elected were Janet Knechtel – East; Ted Meeker – Central; John Lee – West; John Nielsen – South; Gale Eichhorst – At-large No. 1; and Rick Stockhill – At-large No. 2. The holdover directors were Bill Mizell, Roger Dunham, Bud Martin, Darlene Grogan, Don Kime, and Janet Tate. Lee Markley, Barb Chamberlain, and Carl Booker were reappointed secretary, treasurer, and editor. The officers and directors were installed by Eunice Booker, and the convention adjourned to meet the next year in Indianapolis for the 41st convention and the 40th anniversary of the ICGA. It was to be at the Radisson Airport Hotel.
For the first time in a long time the membership dropped below one thousand to nine hundred sixty-seven. People from forty-three states, Argentina, Australia, Canada, England, Italy, New Zealand, Scotland, and Sweden had joined. Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Wisconsin, and Texas had the most members.
Iris Herring, Anna Lee Glasgow, Joyce Middleton, Pat Davis, Esta Watson, Bill Van Hook, Victor Ihde, James Wheatley, Eleanor and Jack Hamilton, Roger Gladson, Betty Heely, Florence Newman, Harold Wagner, Terry Henry, Lucile Britt, Christ Harnish, Bill Stinchcomb, Henry Hawk, Sam Wolfe, Willie Jean Cheek, Marnen Robertson, and Tom Bucher all passed away. This list includes three ICGA charter members.
The souvenir was a Burmese miniature Town Pump. This was the first time since the early 80s that the mold had been used and was to be used for 2007.
Part Sixteen
The year 2007 marked the passing of several members. Charter member Gretha Wagaman, Imogene Grissom, Nigel Gamble, Harold Cox, Joe Williams, Phil Perry, Dorothy Knechtel, Cathy Roque, Walt Huff, Mary Sharp, Glenn Sells, Melvin Schoff, and Ethel Harnish. Many of these folks had been members or former members from the early days of ICGA.
The forty-first convention was held in Indianapolis at the Radisson Airport Hotel. It was attended by ninety-five people from nineteen states and Canada. Only two states had more than ten present. The luncheon and business meeting was held on Thursday with fifty-four in attendance. The Friday night banquet was served to eighty. Don and Barb Chamberlain signed up the most new members, and the Thornes came the farthest from Washington and Alaska. About fifteen displays were set up. The first place display was Roger and Cathy Dunham’s “Take A Stroll Through Our Garden.” Second place went to Larry and Mary Helen Yung for “Brides Wanted.” The third place display was “Aqua Opal and ICGA” by Gale Eichhorst. Reg and Linda Dunham had the fourth place display entitled “Shhh! Marigold and Her Kittens.” The fifth place went to Des and Stacy Wills’ “Peacocks.”
The annual business meeting was held at the luncheon. Its main item of business was the election of Directors. Those elected were: Bill Mizell – East; Roger Dunham – Central; Darlene Grogan – West; Bud Martin – South; and At-large #3 and #4 – Don Kime and Janet Tate. The holdover Directors were Janet Knechtel, Ted Meeker, John Nielsen, Joan Steskal, Gale Eichhorst, and Rick Stockhill. Lee Markley, Barb Chamberlain, and Carl Booker were reappointed Secretary, Treasurer, and Editor respectively.
The theme of the Display Room was red carnival glass with Richard Cinclair presenting the seminar. The breakfast talks were given by Fred Stone, Janet Knechtel, and Rocky Van Natta. On Wednesday “Carnival Glass with your Spouse” featured Ron and Bert Doubler, Carl and Eunice Booker, and Roger and Cathy Dunham with Brian Pitman acting as moderator.
That evening Ramsey Gross and Hailey Van Natta presented a program on their collections. On Thursday “The Business of Carnival Glass” featured Jim Seeck, Jack Targonski, and Tom Mordini being interviewed by Brian about the business end of collecting. Aaron Hurst with the help of Stacy Wills talked about acquiring several of his rarities as part of his presentation “Carnival Glass Across Social Backgrounds.” The Morgans of Texas presented the banquet talk with Judge Dorothy doing the talking and Emmett assisting her. The convention then adjourned to meet again in St. Louis in 2008.
The 2007 souvenir was an aqua opal miniature Town Pump. In 2007 the membership continued its decline. It had dropped to eight hundred fifty-four. Members were from forty-two states, Australia, Canada, England, Italy, Scotland, and Sweden. Illinois had the most with eighty-three. Indiana was second with seventy-two, and Wisconsin was third with sixty-four. Ohio with fifty-seven and Iowa with fifty-four were forth and fifth.
The year 2008 saw the passing of several members. Wilma Thurston died in December of 2007. Longtime Millersburg collector Don Doyle passed away in April. Earleen Wolfe, a charter member, Paul Steiner, George Thomas, Charlotte Williams, Carolyn Judd, and Sidney Huber all passed away from March to September. Bob Leonard a longtime member and former Director also was taken home. Bob had helped Jim Seeck inspect and set up the auction glass for a number of years.
The forty-second convention met in St. Louis form July 16-19 at the St. Louis Marriott West. This convention had two main events: the honoring of Reg and Linda Dunham with the first Frank Fenton Award and the Display Room featuring seven color seminars with the theme “Colors of the Rainbow.” The featured colors were white, blue, peach opal, green, smoke, purple, ice blue and ice green. Bob and Sherry Cyza were in charge of setting up the Display Room.
The first of these seminars was given by Bob Grissom and featured white carnival, most of which were from Bob’s own collection. That evening Roger and Cathy Dunham held forth on blue carnival. Thursday morning started with a breakfast seminar on peach opal. Sharon Mizell gave that seminar. Two more seminars were scheduled for that afternoon and evening. Judy Maxwell, assisted by Darlene Grogan, presented the afternoon talk on green. That evening smoke was featured in Joan Doty’s elegant talk. It was surprising to see the wide variety of smoke shades represented.
Friday morning saw another breakfast seminar on purple. Our Canadian gal, Ingrid Spurrier, spiced up her talk with her dry wit and partial strip show! At the end she removed her jacket to reveal her “Eh!” sweat shirt. Friday evening Marie Capps was the star of the “ice show.” She gave the last color talk after the banquet on ice blue and ice green.
Sandwiched among these seven seminars was the awards luncheon and business meeting. After lunch and before the business meeting the Frank Fenton Award was presented to Reg and Linda Dunham for their contributions to the Carnival Glass World. They have been longtime members and attended their first convention in Des Moines in 1973. All the Dunham clan attended including the youngest member, Dakota. The family had managed to keep the honor a secret for that whole year.
The business meeting followed. Gale Eichhorst presented the slate of officers and directors. Those elected were East – Janet Knechtel; Central – Ted Meeker; South – John Nielsen; West – Joan Steskal; Atlarge – Gale Eichhorst and Rick Stockhill. Brian Pitman was chosen president and Roger Dunham vice-president. Holdover directors were Bill Mizell, Bud Martin, Darlene Grogan, Don Kime, and Janet Tate. Roger Macauley was selected to fill the Central directorship because Roger Dunham had became vice-president. Lee Markley, Barb Chamberlain, and Carl Booker were reappointed Secretary, Treasurer, and Editor.
This convention was attended by one hundred one people from twenty-one states and Canada. The luncheon was served to seventy-seven and the banquet to sixty-nine. The breakfasts on Thursday and Friday were attended by seventy plus each day.
There were twelve room displays. Nathaniel Dunham won first place for “My Growing Collection.” Second place was Don and Barb Chamberlain for “White Carnival – the Icing on the Cake.” Gale Eichhorst won third with “Ribbon Tie.” The fourth place was Roger and Cathy Dunham for “At the Show.” Fifth place was “Imperial Grape Decanters and Carafes” by Fred Stone and Ann McMorris.
The membership continued to decline and was seven hundred forty-three. Members represented forty-one states, Canada, Australia, England, Scotland, Italy, and Sweden. Illinois retained its top spot with seventy-seven. Indiana had sixty-seven; Wisconsin, fifty-seven; Ohio, fifty-two; and Texas, thirty-nine. The convention adjourned Friday after the banquet to reconvene in Des Moines in 2009.
As of this writing in July 2009, the membership remained at seven hundred forty-three and represented forty-one states, Australia, Canada, England, Italy, and Sweden. The five top states were Illinois, 72; Indiana, 62; Ohio, 48; Wisconsin, 46; and Texas, 37. The first six months of the year were marked by the deaths of Marlene Nelson, Dick Tilton, and Dick Hostetler. The oldest active member had been Everett Henry who died at the age of 102.
The forty-third convention was held in Des Moines at the Holiday Inn Airport location. Ninety-six members from sixteen states and Canada attended. Iowa had the most attendees with twenty-eight and Illinois had seventeen. No other state had more than ten. There were forty-six at the luncheon and seventy-two at the banquet to hear Roger Dunham’s presentation on mugs. Carl and Eunice Booker presented the Thursday afternoon talk on “The Other U. S. Glass Companies.” They were also in charge of the Display Room titled “Magnificent Marigold.” Using the display room for the basis of his talk, Gary Lickver discussed the various shades of marigold represented by the more than 250 pieces on display. This convention marked the first time that a convention registration fee was in effect since the early days of the organization.
Twelve displays were registered. The first place winner was Don and Barb Chamberlain for “We Promised You a Rose Garden.” Don Kime won second for “Paneled Diamond and Bows.” The youngest person to win a display award was Hailey Van Natta for “Cherries, Cherries, Everywhere.” The fourth place award was Roger and Cathy Dunham’s “Peter Rabbit in the Strawberry Patch.” Kevin and April Clark were fifth with “To Swing It or Not?”
The election of directors was held at the annual business meeting. Don Kime and Roger Macauley were the nominating committee. They presented a slate as follows: East – Bill Mizell; Central – Roger Macauley; South – Mitchell Stewart; West – Darlene Grogan; Atlarge – Don Kime and Dave Drabing. It was elected. Lee Markley, Barb Chamberlain, and Carl Booker were reappointed Secretary, Treasurer, and Editor. It was decided to offer a discounted dues schedule to those members who choose to have their Pump sent electronically, starting with new members now and present members next year beginning July 1, 2010.
The 2010 convention will be moved east probably to Indiana and back to Des Moines in 2011 at the same motel. The Display Room will feature Peacocks with Ted Meeker in charge.