Howdy Doody Finger Puppets

Howdy Doody Finger Puppets

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Description (Brief)
These three finger puppets are part of child's toy set based on characters from the popular children's television series, The Howdy Doody Show that aired from 1947-1960. The puppets include Howdy Doody the cowboy, Phineas T. Butler the mayor, and Clara Bell the clown.
Made of soft molded latex, the heads are attached to a paper body with a cardboard backing printed to look like clothing. There is a small hole at the bottom of the head for your finger. Originally, the set was packaged in a cardboard box that doubled as a stage. The popularity of Howdy Doody created a sensation and this toy set was just one of many toys created to market the show to children.
Location
Currently not on view
Object Name
puppet
Date made
1947 - 1960
previous owner
Rollins, Hazelle H.
manufacturer
Molded Latex Products, Inc.
maker
Molded Latex Products, Inc.
place made
United States: New Jersey, Paterson
Associated Place
United States: New York, New York
Physical Description
rubber (overall material)
fabric (overall material)
cardboard (overall material)
Measurements
overall: 6 in x 2 in x 2 in; 15.24 cm x 5.08 cm x 5.08 cm
ID Number
1980.0910.10
accession number
1980.0910
catalog number
1980.0910.10
Credit Line
Anne W. and John W. Rollins, Jr.
subject
Puppetry
Radio and television broadcasting
Television broadcasts
Children's television programs
Consumerism
Television
Toys
See more items in
Culture and the Arts: Entertainment
Puppets
Data Source
National Museum of American History
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