23 May History and Art
Used with permission from the Merrill Historical
Sundays could last twice as long, couldn’t they? No matter if a person works on the day or has the day to pause a bit, it’s still a mindset of weekend hours. And if a person does not have the day to pause oneself, Sundays are at the very least, a reminder to rest during the week. “Make one day, a Sunday.”
I find myself in a most delightful mixture of reflection upon history and creation of art. A week after the Merrill Historical Society’s History Hunt, I am realizing that my work of documentation will not be a quick endeavor! I have learned so much more of the Matthias Building’s history, especially from people who lived that history! They also have clarified and corrected my understanding of that past.
One such example is the ownership of the building, as it pertains to the Fromm Brothers. The company did not own the building but they did rent space. In fact, the company rented the top floor and the basement to work the fox furs.
I was in awe of this part of the building’s history. To see photos of the Fromm Brothers’ operations, was like opening a treasure chest. The photo included here shows the tumblers and a worker in the factory area. These tumblers were located in the basement of the Matthias Building.
Inspired.
I never thought of history inspiring art. Or, maybe the process of creation actually brings forth the history of the building. Maybe the art part enlivens the past.
I am unsure of which is which, but I do know that the combination of a building’s history and the process of one’s own creation enlivens the renovation. It’s as if the building’s bricks themselves encourage and inspire.
I guess that has been true all along.
Through the years I have expressed gratitude to the architects and builders of the Matthias Building. The eighty foot span of steel trusses which were hoisted two floors has long inspired me. But the history of the building? As I hear stories of the building’s occupants, I cannot help but feel the same.
Imagine the workers of a Fox Fur Company. Think of the move from Nee York to Merrill. Imagine the sounds of tumblers in the basement and sewing machines in the second floor!
“Stop to smell the roses” is popular advise. Maybe mix it up this week! May your week be filled with time to pause for the sounds of history.
I am forever grateful to the Merrill Historical Society for photos of Matthias’ history. And I will always be grateful to the two gentlemen who fueled my inspiration!
Thank you so much!
Love, Stephanie
