Based on these internal pages, this item is actually a 19th-century family hair token album, likely created as an heirloom or memorial piece long before it was mailed in 1978.
The booklet consists of multiple layers of intricately hand-cut paper, with each page dedicated to a different family member.
The central cutouts feature a lock of that specific relative’s hair woven through the paper, accompanied by their name written in beautiful 19th-century cursive script.
- Page 1: "Grand Father Wiley" (left) and "Grand Mother Wiley" (right).
- Page 2: "Polly Nickerson". This page stands out because it features a braided circle of dark brown hair framing her name, which is written inside a hand-drawn, dotted heart.
- Page 3: "George Washington Eglin". His name is written inside a heart-shaped cutout, accented with dried or painted orange/red floral elements at the bottom right next to a lock of hair.
- Page 4: "Josiah Edwards" (left) and "Maron Edwards" (or potentially Aaron Edwards, right).
- Page 5: A close-up showing a loop of fine blonde/light-brown hair woven securely through the jagged teeth of the sunburst cutout.
Historical Context
This is a remarkable example of Victorian hair art and genealogy keeping, a practice that peaked in the mid-to-late 1800s. Hair was viewed as an enduring, physical piece of a loved one that would never fade or decay. Collectibles like this were put together to map out a family tree or to remember deceased ancestors.
The 1978 envelope from the previous image suggests that this precious 100+ year-old family artifact was later passed down or mailed to a relative in Grand Rapids to keep it safe within the family line
Maybe a one in a lifetime vintage collectible, in excellent antique condition, see pictures and description, very interesting!!
I have more vintage jewelry, toys, and items listed and I combine shipping, please take a look at my other listings
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