Good Guys Wear White Hats

10645-2029; Source: John P. Falter Collection (top left) 10645-2030; Source: John P. Falter Collection (top right).

Those of you who have been following our blog, know that the Nebraska History Museum, with the help of intern Karen Anderson, has been re-cataloging and digitizing the John P. Falter collection. In addition to Falter’s artwork, the collection includes props from his studio.  One of the props is a Roy Rogers gun belt with two toy pistols.  A little worn and missing part of the grips, this toy would have been the ultimate plaything for any child fancying him or herself a cowboy.

Falter appears to have used this prop to create his November 9, 1957 Saturday Evening Post Cover titled “Good Guys Wear White Hats”.

8592-53; Source: Ernest C. Ames (at left).

Falter’s studio props include hats and shoes of many shapes and styles.  The hat in the painting is a bit similar to this one from Falter’s prop collection.

As we continue re-cataloging and  digitizing the rest of this wonderful collection, many other exciting connections between photographs, sketches, props, and finished artwork are being made.   We look forward to sharing more with you in the future.

10645-1052; Source: John P. Falter Collection (bottom). 

-Laura Mooney, Museum Registrar

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The Nebraska State Historical Society was founded in 1878 by citizens who recognized Nebraska was going through great changes and they sought to record the stories of both indigenous and immigrant peoples. It was designated a state institution and began receiving funds from the legislature in 1883. Legislation in 1994 changed NSHS from a state institution to a state agency. The division is headed by Interim Director Cindy Drake. They are assisted by an administrative staff responsible for financial and personnel functions, museum store services, security, and facilities maintenance for NSHS.

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