Find

photograph

Catalog Number
2004.39.86
Description
Photograph of Claribel Wright burning words into wooden shoe at the Wooden Shoe Factory in Holland, MI.
History
Claribel Wright was born on 11-21-1893 in Elk Rapids, MI to Fred and Mary Wright. In 1934 Claribel began working for Chester Van Tongeren at the Dutch Novelty Shop in Holland, MI. She would work here for 38 years as a decorator. During this time Claribel decorated wooden shoes for numerous celebrities from Bing Crosby and Bob Hope.
Claribel lived at 17 Post Ave in Holland (1949 and 1960 city directories). After her retirement in 1972 she moved to Grand Rapids, MI with her sister Bernice. Claribel passed away on 8-30-1991.
Gift of
Vande Water, Randall