Museum List Readers:

     The State Historical Society of Wisconsin, Museum Division, is doing a
     small exhibit on the beginnings of physical education in schools.  The
     exhibit will focus on the 2 divergent groups who pushed to add
     physical fitness to school curriculums in Wisconsin:  Turnverein
     Societies and supporters of the Playground Movement.

     Currently we are looking for artifacts used in public or private
     schools to teach phys. ed. for grades K-12.  The artifacts need to
     have been used between 1870-1930.  Obviously we would prefer the items
     to have been used in Wisconsin, but are open to items used in other
     states.  Some specific items would include gymnastic equipment (other
     than dumbbells and Indian clubs) such as rings (hang from ceiling),
     gym mats, climbing ropes, or a small horse or vault, preferably pre
     1910.  For the Playground Movement section we are looking for any
     children's sports or game equipment used in gyms or playgrounds from
     the 1900-1930 time period.  We are also looking for a boy's gym suit.

     If you know an institution or individual who may be willing to lend
     such items for a 6-month period, please contact me off-list at
     [log in to unmask] or call 608-264-6551 or write to me
     at State Historical Society of Wisconsin, 816 State Street, Madison,
     WI  53706-1488.

     Thank you for any help you can provide.

     Sincerely,
     Leslie Bellais
     Curator of Costume & Textiles