Unboxing History: Objects from the Ruth Center for Textile Arts

Laura Nemmers works with the Appleton team on safely unpacking boxes.

In preparation for an exhibition on fashion opening this September, the Appleton team has been hard at work cataloging a remarkable collection of items transferred to the museum’s care several years ago from the former Ruth Funk Center for Textile Arts. The transfer included nearly 2,000 objects, ranging from garments, handbags and hats to cloth fragments and other textiles. These pieces complement and expand upon the existing contributions made by museum founder Arthur I. Appleton.

Assisting with this important project is Laura Nemmers, a Florida-based collections management and registration consultant with over 20 years of experience. Together with Appleton staff, she has helped closely examine and photograph the collection, including pieces either designed or collected by Ruth Funk. The team has enjoyed unboxing and exploring these objects up close for the first time, gaining new insights into their historical, cultural and artistic significance.

A selection of items from the Appleton’s holdings and some pieces on loan will be brought together in an exciting exhibition celebrating fashion, style and craftsmanship — details to be announced soon!

Cape, shirt, skirt and jacket, Mid-20th century, Unknown maker, Seminole, Fiber, Gift of Susan Chenault, Florida Institute of Technology 2021 transfer.

Millie Gate Top purse, ca. 1930s, Whiting & Davis Co. (American, est. 1876), Gilded brass mesh and metal with grosgrain inner lining, Gift of Sharon Rohde, Florida Institute of Technology 2021 transfer.