Recent Acquisitions

More than 1,000 Redlands-related objects were donated in 2003, a record year for new acquisitions of museum artifacts. Volunteers have catalogued more than 800 of them. Items have ranged from the very small – a Redlands High School pin from the 1920s – to the very large – Bob Break’s 1927 International truck, complete with a load of empty field boxes ready to go out to the groves to be filled.

More than 100 original oil paintings of local buildings by the late artist Hazel E. Olson were donated to the Redlands Historical Museum in 2003. Included also is a series of California train stations and a complete set of the California Missions. The painting at left depicts A.K. Smiley Public Library as it looked from 1939 until 1999.

Interesting items donated during 2003 include a series of bank checks written to a number of different Redlands companies in 1929; a gift box from the store of “Harry G. Wilson, Jeweler”; a letter opener with “First National Bank of Redlands” on the handle, no doubt a gift to loyal customers of the bank; a group of old-time pharmacy jars and bottles; a pennant and swimsuit from Redlands High School; a “Mutual Orange Distributors – Pure Gold – Member” sign used by orange growers; a candy box from Rigby’s; a Redlands souvenir spoon; and Becky Burris’ dress from Surrey Days in 1948, complete with photographic proof.

This teapot is among several silver pieces monogrammed with the letter “D” which were donated to the museum by a descendant of Davis Donald, a member of the Donald family, well-known for building a good deal of early Redlands.

Word of mouth is often the most effective way that people become aware of the Museum’s needs. On numerous occasions, donations have come only as a result of people talking to those they know who have important artifacts, but don’t know what to do with them. Sometimes the objects were close to the rubbish bin, saved only because of thoughtful RHMA members. Thanks to all who have talked about the Museum to their friends, neighbors or other acquaintances. With your help, we will document our town’s heritage effectively and completely.