Author: bigbertha

My interests include writing, photography, marketing and sales. The Big Bertha's Adventures blog gives me a creative outlet to occupy my time while (hopefully) inspiring and entertaining others.
Curiosities, Dallas History, Details Count, ephemera, Local History, Paris Texas, People2 Comments
8th Grade Autograph Book from 1946 - Paris, Texas

8th Grade Autograph Book from 1946 – Paris, Texas: Part 1

bigbertha

I recently went to my favorite antique store in Dallas (Curiosities) to purchase an autograph book from the 1800s.  But by the time I arrived the book was sold.  Since it’s a long drive – I made the trip worthwhile.  I scoured the store and found a consolation purchase that ended up being an even better gem.  This little red autograph book belonged to Ramona Holmes, a student at J. G. Wooten School, in Paris, Texas.  The autograph book is dated 1946.  Continue reading 8th Grade Autograph Book from 1946 – Paris, Texas: Part 1

Art Projects, Curiosities, Dallas History, Empirical Whimsy, MotivationLeave a comment

Resilience

bigbertha

Just recently I was rummaging through my garage and came upon a bucket of the metal junk I had apparently forgotten to discard.  With the launch of Empirical Whimsy, you can imagine my excitement.  Rediscovered objects!

The s-hook used in this piece is one of the objects removed from the streets of Dallas.  If you want a visual it’s the Walnut Hill / I-35 area of town, near liquor stores and other establishments.

I am absolutely thrilled to have turned pieces of junk into lemonade.  Continue reading Resilience

Baker Hotel Mineral Wells, Dallas History, Harry Hines Blvd, Hotels, The Adolphus Hotel, Tower Hotel CourtsLeave a comment
Tower Hotel Courts

The Tower Hotel Courts on Harry Hines Blvd & Duncan Hines, Part 2

bigbertha

You might be surprised to discover the Adolphus Hotel, Baker Hotel, Statler Hilton Hotel AND the Tower Hotel Courts motel have something in common (aside from my affinity for them!)  They were listed in Duncan Hines Travel books in 1962.   Continue reading The Tower Hotel Courts on Harry Hines Blvd & Duncan Hines, Part 2

Art Projects, Curiosities, Empirical Whimsy, Percival SunshineLeave a comment
Betty Bluetiful of Empirical Whimsy

Betty Bluetiful of Mrs. Stewart’s Liquid Bluing

bigbertha

– The fanciful story of Betty Bluetiful –

Before Betty started her sales career, she was Elizabeth Florence of Bluemington.  She lived a content life but at the age of 40, she wanted a career change.  In 1956 she responded to an advertisement offering the chance to travel, meet new people and the opportunity to spread a good clean message (ever dear to her heart).  She signed on as a door-to-door saleswoman, selling Mrs. Stewart’s Liquid Bluing.  Continue reading Betty Bluetiful of Mrs. Stewart’s Liquid Bluing