MUSEUM PARTICIPATES IN THE L.A. ARCHIVES BAZAAR

 CHERISHING OUR VALLEY          2012

Lee Davis (seated) speaks with Fred Berk at the L.A. Archives Bazaar at the University of Southern California. Lee, a new Board Member of The Museum of the San Fernando Valley, is the Chairman of our Valley Notables project and Museum affiliations. Fred Berk is the founding Librarian of The Museum.  (click on photograph to enlarge it - Photograph by Board Member Phyllis Hansen.)

Representatives from many Los Angeles most important historical and cultural archives met at USC's Edward l. Doheny Jr Library. (Photograph by Phyllis Hansen 2012)
 

MUSEUM PRODUCES NORTH HOLLYWOOD WALKING TOUR BOOKLET

DISCOVERING OUR VALLEY   2011

Written by Museum Board Member Richard Hilton, "A Historic Walking Tour of North Hollywood 'Home of the Peach'" has just been produced by The Museum of the San Fernando Valley. What began as a small souvenir for those who participate in the bi-monthly walking tour of the NoHo, has evolved into a handsome 20-page booklet with many delightful photographs and stories of the Valley city once known as "the Home of the Peach."

(click on image to enlarge)

With photographs generously loaned by Guy Weddington McCreary and images from the Archives of The Museum of the San Fernando Valley and from the collection of the author Richard Hilton, the booklet features images that haven't been seen for nearly a century.

Edited in part by Museum Board Member Phyllis Hansen, the work was also edited and produced by Michel Stevens. Graphic design, creative and layout services were provided by Graphic Elements. The brochure was funded by the Mid-town North Hollywood Neighborhood Council and in part by The Museum of the San Fernando Valley.

For the last two years, The Museum's historic walking tours have been graciously sponsored by the Universal City North Hollywood Chamber of Commerce.

In 2012, The Museum plans on producing two more tour booklets; one for the Van Nuys historic walking tour and a self-guided automobile tour of the Northridge, Porter Ranch and Granada Hills areas of the San Fernando Valley.

A HAPPY PASSOVER GREETING FROM THE MUSEUM OF THE SAN FERNANDO VALLEY

DISCOVERING OUR VALLEY     2011

Phyllis Hansen, member of the Board of Directors of The Museum of the San Fernando Valley, creates wonderful pressed flower arrangements. Here she shares with us a special spring greeting for our holiday enjoyment.  (click on this image to enlarge)

MSFV's BOARD MEMBER PHYLLIS HANSEN TO ADDRESS CALABASAS HISTORICAL SOCIEITY

DISCOVERING OUR VALLEY   2011

Phyllis Hansen, Board Member of The Museum of the San Fernando Valley will address the Calabasas Historical Society.  (click on image to enlarge)

VISIT WONDERFUL CAMPO DE CAHUENGA ON JAN. 9TH.

DISCOVERING OUR VALLEY IN 2011
During the long renovation of historic Campo de Cahuenga, it seemed that this priceless American treasure might never be opened again to the public. However, after years of really hard work, juggling government grants and regulations, restoring a delicate old structure, and facing one obsticle after another - the place is really handsome and ready for its re-debut on January 9th.
Naturally, when the working board of directors of the Campo de Cahuenga Historical Memorial Society arrived this last Saturday to pitch in, in readiness to the grand old facility's historical re-enactment on the 9th, the gods just had to throw in just one more little adventure - a flood from an ancient water heater --- nothing was damaged except for a ruffle in the group's morale.
Here are a few candid photographs taken by Campo Board member, Phyllis Hansen of the work that went on this last weekend. (Phyllis, by the way acquired the beautiful leather chairs from the great LA Shares organization. They will soon grace the library tables coming soon for the facility.)

Putting a heavy glass display case into position. In the background are paintings just returned from two long years in storage.

 Union Army General John C. Fremont looks down on Campo de Cahuenga volunteers bringing back to life this treasure of the American West. Freemont accepted the capitulation of California forces at this very site. He would later become the first Republican presidential candidate, hero of Western exploration and of the American Civil War.

 A pastel drawing of the great Mrs. Armatage Forbes surveys the building that she and her associates built to preserve the heritage of Campo de Cahuenga for future generations. You've no doubt seen one of Mrs. Forbes El Camino Real bells along Ventura Boulevard or in front of California's historic sites.
The pastel is the work of the famous California artist, Orpha Klinker.
Seen through the glass display case is Guy Weddington McCreary, whose Weddington family were the founders of the town of Lankershim - later to become North Hollywood. In the foreground it Deuk Perrin. president of the Campo Association.

 Traditional Spanish wrought iron grills have been installed, adding to the charm of the Campo. The chairs from LA Shares await the arrival of library tables. The Campo Association awaits donors to add additional grill work for this grand old meeting place.

Campo de Cahuenga and its volunteers are a prime example of how Americans are willing to pitch in, when they are encouraged to do so.

WE'RE THANKFUL FOR THE LEADERSHIP OF PHYLLIS HANSEN

2009 The Year of Valley History

Cornucopia Thanksgiving Ornament - Collection of Janne and Jerry Fecht

It is said that the Goddess Fortuna, who has a very fine temple ruin in the Roman Forum, is the protector of women, inspiration of writers, and embodiment of generosity. Lady Fortuna (luck be a lady tonight) enters the San Fernando Valley through her symbol, the abundant Cornucopia. This very ancient symbol stems from the horn of the she goat who gave protection the Father of the Gods, Zeus (Jupiter).
Considering good Fortune, how lucky The Museum of the San Fernando Valley is to have the brilliant support and leadership of Phyllis Hansen. Her bright ideas and inspirational followthrough has been a god-send. Thanks Phyllis, we are grateful.

If you would like to support your Museum, or offer artifacts for our Library or Archives, contact The Museum of the San Fernando Valley at 1 (818) 347-9665

CHARMING - A Book Review by Fred Berk for The Museum of the San Fernando Valley

Museum of the San Fernando Valley Book Review

CHARMING: Jewelry with a Message
By Phyllis Hansen
Brighton Collectibles, 2009

The Museum of the San Fernando Valley is proud to have as a talented member of its Board of Directors the author a dazzling new book on charms. Phyllis Hansen, the writer of the work, explains that the history of charms goes back to ancient and medieval times, but this book concentrates mostly on the past century. If all the colorful and unusual charms pictured here were assembled in one museum exhibit, they would bring in the crowds for a long time. But you may just want to imagine they are all displayed for real before your own eyes, as you look back and forth through this gift-type book.

Fred A. Berk, Librarian

Note: The art direction for Charming was done by Laguna Beach designer Lori McFadden. She is also the designer of the logos of The Museum of the San Fernando Valley.

HOW'S YOUR TV SAVVY?

2009 - The Year of Valley History

How savvy are you about television history? Phyllis Hansen, member of the Board of Directors of your Museum, found this clipping in a box full of old newspaper clippings. Can you guess the year these ratings were posted in the Los Angeles Times?

(click on image to enlarge)

The San Fernando Valley, in the heart of the Creative Center of the World, deserves a great Museum of history and culture.
Join your Museum Community today. Call 1 (818) 347-9965 to find out how you can be part of the Television History Committee or find another valuable place in our effort to bring about a great Museum.

PHYLLIS HANSEN LECTURE REVIEWED.

The following article appears in the July 2009 "The Valley" newsletter of the San Fernando Valley Historical Society.

Charming Way to Write a Book by Jacky Walker

Phyllis Hansen, author of Charming: Jewelry with a Message, regaled guests and members of the San Fernando Valley Historical Society on Thursday, June 25, with tales of charms and charm bracelet history.
“Charms are fairy tale tokens that carry messages,” Hansen said. “They tell time, reveal history, keep secrets, introduce you to new friends, tell tales, record genealogy, and are keepers of our soul.”
Hansen explained how charms were used by ancient Egyptians through the modern era when Queen Victoria popularized the miniature tokens with her penchant for wearing jewelry. She predicts that a new heyday for charms is surfacing. New uses for charms include adorning cell phones, photo frames, shoes, bookmarks, tiny
Christmas trees, dog collars, and even men’s watch fobs.
According to Hansen, the most popular charms are gold and silver, although she has seen charms made of lacquered wood and Bakelite. Turquoise/silver charms were avidly collected after Route 66 opened and tourism to the Southwest became popular.
Several members of the audience shared their charm bracelet history, including Liane Schirmer, whose charm bracelet was a joint gift at her recent milestone surprise birthday party. Each guest brought a charm representing a special memory that they shared with Liane, which was a great ice breaker and a memory she truly cherishes.
Hansen, a freelance writer, also explained how she came to write the book and the creative process of getting it published for her client the Brighton Collections, a leading accessories specialty store. Thank you, Phyllis, for a wonderful program!

NO HO GETS A GREAT PETER SHIRE ARCH

Close up of Peter Shires No Ho Arch 2009 - Photo by Phyllis Hansen for the Archives of The Museum of the San Fernando Valley


Close up of Peter Shire's No Ho Arch 2009 - Photo by Phyllis Hansen for the Archives of The Museum of the San Fernando Valley (click on image to enlarge)

Phyllis Hansen, free lance author and member of the Board of your Museum, captured these two closeup images of Peter Shire's provocative new sculpture-arch for the NoHo Arts District. (Read more about Shire and Hansen on this blog)

PHLLIS HANSEN - HISTORY'S AMAZING FRIEND

Roses at the Entrance to the Home of Diane and Guy McCreary - June 2009 (click on image to enlarge)

What greater luck could The Museum of the San Fernando Valley have had than our introduction to Phyllis Hansen. Attracted to historical preservation through her interest in the great California artist Orpha Klinker, Phyllis has proved to be a genuine treasure. An author, free lance writer, historian, master of research and a "creative bombshell", Phyllis is one of a kind. We are grateful for her support and leadership in The Museum.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PHYLLIS FROM YOUR FANS IN THE SAN FERNANDO VALLEY.

10 REASONS TO TAKE A WALKING TOUR WITH THE MUSEUM OF THE SAN FERNANDO VALLEY

Phyllis Hansen shares with us:

Top 10 Reasons to Tour with your Museum of the San Fernando Valley

10. Finding fun, grass-roots things to do is what 2009 is all about.
9. It’s affordable.
8. It’s worthwhile; you’ll be benefiting a local organization.
7. The docents are extremely knowledgeable AND entertaining.
6. You won’t believe all the awesome history in your own backyard.
5. The San Fernando Valley has an amazing past.
4. You’ll get fresh air and exercise.
3. You’ll meet some new friends.
2. You’ll go home with a wad of trivia to impress your friends.
1. Because there’s a there there.

THE MUSEUM COMMUNITY - ABOUT WAYS OF SEEING, WAYS OF KNOWING

"I see you! I really see you!" Kaleidoscopic Portfolio Series by Phyllis Hansen - Image in the Archives of The Museum of the San Fernando Valley 2009 (click on image to enlarge)


"Bar B Q Hell" Kaleidoscopic Portfolio Series by Phyllis Hansen - Image in the Archives of The Museum of the San Fernando Valley 2009 (click on image to enlarge)

AUTHOR! AUTHOR! PHYLLIS HANSEN WRITES A BOOK ALL ABOUT CHARMS - JUST IN TIME FOR VALENTINE'S DAY

(click on image to enlarge)
On their way to Brighton Collectibles Stores, and retail locations that sell Brighton accessories across America, a terrific coffee table book called Charmed is now available. Written by Phyllis Hansen, a Board Member of The Museum of the San Fernando Valley, the book tells everything you might want to know and more about the charms of today and yesteryear.

To make the book even more fun, there is full page color photo of an amazing charm bracelet owned by our Museum's religion advisor Liane Schirmer.

(click on image to enlarge)

You can find out where to buy Phyllis Hansen's book by checking: www.brighton.com

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY NOTABLE GENERAL JOHN C. FREMONT

On January 21, 1813, John C. Fremont was born. His destiny would take him across a largely unexplored North American continent and into Norte California, a province of Mexico. Fremont would engage Mexicans and Californianos, and eventually establish the dream of America's "Manifest Destiny" in a small adobe building that today we call Campo de Cahuenga. Fremont would go on to be the first Republican candidate for the Presidency of the United States, become a competitor to an inexperienced young politician from Illinois, Abraham Lincoln, and a general in the Union Army in the Civil War.

2009 - The Year of Valley History

Wild Parrots - photograph by Phyllis Hansen - 2009

Nothing says January in Los Angeles better than wild parrots in your garden. Thanks to Phyllis Hansen, member of the Board of Directors of The Museum of the San Fernando Valley, for sharing her photograph.

The San Fernando Valley, in the heart of the Creative Capital of the World, deserves a great Museum of history and culture.

SUPPORTING VALLEY FESTIVALS MAKE GREAT SENSE

Flags of California - Photo by Phyllis Hansen 2009 - Archives of The Museum of the San Fernando Valley (click on image to enlarge)

The Museum has many projects underway. You might ask, "why, since the Museum Community of the San Fernando Valley is at present without its own structure?" The answer lies in the importance of saving history now! In a moment of time, historical artifacts, personal stories, and historic explanations can disappear forever. But, there are other reasons why working on Museum projects can't wait around for a building. One of the most important of these is the vital support needed for San Fernando Valley historical organizations on an on-going basis.

In difficult times like this recession/depression, one readily hears arguments for not supporting the arts, historical preservation and "luxury" programs for children. If costs for civilization need to measured against economic "payoffs", supporting events such as the Campo de Cahuenga re-enactment held this week makes important economic sense. Each time people get out of their homes and off to Valley historic and cultural venues, they are likely to go to lunch, exercise their out-and-about times to purchase things or buy impulse items, or wear out those walking shoes.

Arts and culture make economic sense - just ask the citizens of Florence, Italy or little Ojai. The Museum of the San Fernando Valley calls for a collective effort to celebrate our reality of being in the center of the Cultural Capital of the World.

2009 - The Year of Valley History

PHYLLIS HANSEN SHINING STAR OF THE MUSEUM OF THE SAN FERNANDO VALLEY

Icon of San Gabriel by Gerald Fecht -

A great and shining star in the preservation of California history and culture is our friend and colleague Phyllis Hansen. A Board Member of The Museum of the San Fernando Valley and The Friends of Campo de Cahuenga Memorial Association, Phyllis Hansen's leadership is well on the way to making a permanent impact on her State, in the tradition of her kinswoman the great California artist Orpha Klinker.
We are Soooooooo lucky to have Phyllis working for The Museum and for the residents of greater Los Angeles!


The icon featured in this blog entry was made from a reserved Fresca can. It gives honor to the much honored Saint Gabriel Archangel, for whom our sister Mission is named. in Christian lore, San Gabriel is the Angel of the Nativity of Jesus.

CANDID SNAPSHOTS CAPTURE SAN FERNANDO VALLEY HISTORY

Interior of Harris Stage Coach - Photo by Phyllis Hansen - Oct 2008 (click on image to enlarge)

Street Scene of Harris Stage Coach - Photo by Phyllis Hansen - Oct 2008 (click on image to enlarge)

Phyllis Hansen, member of the Board of Directors of The Museum of the San Fernando Valley and of the Campo de Cahuenga, usually brings her trusty camera along to history-related events. Here she captured the interior of the Harris Stage Coach as it arrived in North Hollywood. In the second picture she asks us, "What do you suppose this guy is saying about what he is seeing to the person he is talking to on the telephone?

When you get a good picture of a San Fernando Valley or Southern California event, share it with your Museum.

EDGAR BERGAN

Utah handbill - Edgar Bergen with Zeno Klinker - 1962 - Gift to The Museum of the San Fernando Valley by Phyllis Hansen 2008 (click on image to enlarge)
During the 1930s and 1940s, Edgar Bergen and his zany cast of puppet characters were among the most popular entertainers in America. Everyone knew the aristocratic Charle McCarthy and his country bumpkin pal Mortimer Snerd. A new generation of fans came along with the introduction of Effie Klinker, the man-hunting hill billy mountain aunt of Mortimer. The great Zeno Klinker named Effie for his own quaint relatives "back east."
Old time radio wouldn't have been the same without the writing of Zeno Klinker and the wonderful voices of the great Edgar Bergen. On one of those once in a blue moon occasions when you get to visit Washington DC, drop in and say hello to Charle who is part of the Smithsonian Museum's collection.

The Museum of the San Fernando Valley invites you to share your memories of early radio broadcasts with future generations. Contact your Museum today at (818) 347-9665 to contribute your artifacts and ideas.

Creating a great Museum of history and culture in the heart of the Creative Capital of the World.
THE MUSEUM OF THE SAN FERNANDO VALLEY

ZENO KLINKER EARLY CALIFORNIA AERO-CAMERAMAN

Zeno Klinker - Aerial Movie Cameraman - ARCS Christmas Program 1970 - Gift from Phyllis Hansen 2008 - Archives of The Museum of the San Fernando Valley. (click on image to enlarge)
Your Museum collects artifacts and information concerning all aspects of the Entertainment Industry. Emerging in the heart of the Creative Capital of the World, The Museum of the San Fernando Valley actively seeks information on stunt pilots and aerial camera persons.