This showcase presented a selection of puppets and marionettes from the Museum’s collection. Included in the display was an Italian Prince and Princess marionette from 1900, an elf marionette used at the 1963 World’s Fair, Mr. Moose and Bunny Rabbit from Captain Kangaroo, the first Kermit Jim Henson created for the television program Sam & Friends, and two popular Muppets, Elmo and Cookie Monster.
See below for a selection of objects from the display.
Cookie Monster hand-and-rod puppet, 1969. Cookie Monster was one of the original characters on the children's television series "Sesame Street." Gift of the Family of Jim Henson: Lisa Henson, Cheryl Henson, Brian Henson, John Henson, and Heather Henson.
Elmo hand-and-rod puppet, 1984. Elmo was a popular "Sesame Street" character in the 1980s and 90s. Gift of the Family of Jim Henson: Lisa Henson, Cheryl Henson, Brian Henson, John Henson, and Heather Henson.
Sam and Kermit puppets, 1955. These early Jim Henson puppets appeared on a local Washington, D.C. program "Sam and Friends" (1955-1961). Gift of the Family of Jim Henson.
Howdy Doody finger puppets, about 1950. These toy puppets depict three cast members of the popular children's series "The Howdy Doody Show" (1947-1960). Gift of Anne W. and John W. Rollins.
Snap, Crackle, and Pop hand puppets, early 1960s. These mascots for Kellogg's Rice Krispies cereal were offered as a premium for collected cereal box tops. Gift of Anne W. and John W. Rollins.
Bunny Rabbit and Mr. Moose hand puppets, 1955. These characters were created for the children's television series "Captain Kangaroo" (1955-1984). Gift of Robert Keeshan Associates (through Robert Keeshan).
