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ossed tin and after 1913, caps had a design is used today ing to size and design: 2-inch me rubbed spots, $150; 5-inch 1,000, deep red ball, $200; 7-inch 6-inch cobalt grape cluster, $400 ere so large they were not hung on t were rather hung in doorways. these ornaments very carefully.

Rare large Christmas balls called Kugels first appeared in the early 1820s when German glassblowers would sometimes amuse themselves by challenging each other as to who could blow the biggest bubble They often silvered the inside of the bubbles with lead or zinc for a reflective effect

Kugels quickly became popular Christmas tree decorations and glassblowers soon created them in various shapes and sizes Berries, grapes, apples, pears, and balls were made. Early Kugels are rare and valuable. Dating Kugels is easy early Kugels have broken stems with fitted cork caps for hanging By 1885, embossed brass caps with metal rings were used; in 1892, metal treehook loops appeared From 1900 to 1913, nt from Georgia: If you will bring mn into Howe Mercantile, you will receive a free Howe Christmas votive candleholder as a gift A Happy, Healthy Holiday to All

Dr Georgia Caraway, former director of the Denton County Museums for 14 years, and her friends opened the Howe Mercantile at 107 East Haning. Store hours are Thursday through Saturday noon until 8 p m In addition to Tips, Tools, & Techniques: Caring for Your Antiques and Collectibles, she has written four Denton history books and is working on a 5th history about the North Texas State Fair and Rodeo Come shop for your Christmas treasures and gifts SHOP LOCALLY We can show you Howe!