Foellinger Family Artifact Exhibit
The following audio descriptions are from an artifact display located in The Library room at Foellinger Foundation. Press play to hear a description of each of the artifacts as well as the accompanying artifact label.
When Helene Foellinger passed away in 1987, she left not only her financial assets, but also her and her family’s personal belongings to the Foellinger Foundation. These artifacts capture the family’s sense of duty to their community, and each other, as well as their adventurous spirit.
Artifacts from Oscar Foellinger
In addition to Oscar’s contributions to the community through The News-Sentinel, he was an active member of the Mizpah Shrine and also managed President Herbert Hoover’s political campaign in the state of Indiana.
Artifacts from Esther Foellinger
Esther’s personal items are inscribed with her initials. The daily hymn book, written in German, was a gift she received for her confirmation. The book is titled Christliches Vergißmeinnicht, which means “Christian Forget-Me-Not.”
Letter from Helene to Oscar
Helene Foellinger, born in 1910, wrote this letter to her father, Oscar Foellinger, in 1918. The letter documents her writing with pen for the first time and wanting to be a writer and work alongside her dad in the news office.
Dear Dad:
Am going to write you a little note and not with pencil but with pen and ink as I was promoted to that class today and the world is bubbling over with joy for soon I will be such a good writer that can come to the News Office and help you so you can come home with us like other Dads
Well I must close as it is time to go to bed (over)
With love kisses to you, from Loretta, Mother and myself, I will say good night, send me a card and tell me if you got this.
Oh boy my arm is stiff
Good bye
Helene
Ski Boots
These ski boots belonged to Helene, who enjoyed skiing with friends and family, especially her sister Loretta.
High School Artifacts
Helene avidly documented her life, including in her high school scrapbooks. South Side High School recognized Helene with a Distinguished Alumni Award.
Office Supplies
This fountain pen, embosser, and various other office supplies belonged to Helene while she worked at The News Publishing Company and Foellinger Foundation. Helene enjoyed clipping and collecting newspaper articles about leadership and life.
Projector and Film Reels
The Foellinger family documented their lives through video. Their collection of home videos and photos contains scenes from their home, work, vacations, and more. This projector belonged to the family, as did these reels. The family videos and slides have been digitized to ensure their longevity.
Bible and Church Directory
The Foellingers were members of the Trinity English Lutheran Church, located in downtown Fort Wayne. The bible is inscribed with Helene’s name on the front.
South Side High School Diploma
Helene graduated valedictorian from South Side High School in 1928. She was the editor of the school newspaper her junior and senior years, during which the newspaper was recognized with four national awards.
Record Collection
This record collection belonged to Helene’s sister, Loretta Foellinger Teeple. Everyone in the family was passionate about the arts, and Helene played a significant role in bringing many musical acts to local venues such as the Embassy Theatre and Foellinger Outdoor Theatre.