Many button collectors are familiar with the classic, “I Like Ike” button. Here you see the memorable slogan translated in Greek during the 1950s on a campaign button.
The antique button was spotted around the 2:36 minute mark of a video for the Gabby Awards, an annual event that commemorates Greek Americans.
Buttons are a graphic way to learn about history, and this Greek endorsement of an American candidate symbolizes politics from over half a century to this day.
Button measures 13/16" and is the known only example. Courtesy of Hake's.
This weekend, people across this great nation scrambled for cards, flowers, and cakes to commemorate important women in their lives.
While many people believe Mother’s Day is a Hallmark invention, it’s actually a holiday catalyzed by suffragettes like Julia Ward Howe, and established in 1915 by President Woodrow Wilson.
Buttons represent historically relevant events, and this century-old button evidences the implementation of Mother’s Day almost a century ago.
In case you are still looking for something for the mommy who has everything, click here for this rare button.
Parisian Novelty Facade
View of Parisian Novelty from Western Ave. in Chicago
Did you read the Chicago Sun Times article about Busy Beaver Button Co. and Parisian Novelty? Parisian is one of the country’s first button companies, established here in Chicago. It was founded in 1898, and recently closed its doors. This beautiful, 50,000 square foot button-making palace is on the south-side, and you can see its name in the facade of the building.
Joel, Christen and I visited Parisian Novelty to buy historic buttons, equipment, and antique furniture for the new Busy Beaver Button facility. Check out these stoic shots:
Entry to the factory of Parisian Novelty. Love that door!
Second floor of the factory
Christen and Joel with Howard, the facilities manager at Parisian Novelty
Click here to read the Chicago Sun Times article by Dave Hoesktra to learn more about custom button manufacturing in Chicago. Click here to see more photos on the Busy Beaver Flickr.
