Tuesday, June 5, 2012

New Dallas Bonnie & Clyde Exhibition, Aims at Greatness Beyond 2001

For some time behind the scenes, Dallas Historical Society Curator and friend Alan Olson-- has had "big plans" on tap.  Plans to recreate the renown 2001 Bonnie & Clyde Exhibition held at the Hall of State in Dallas.  That Bonnie & Clyde extravaganza (remembered fondly to this day)-- ran that year for nearly 3 weeks during the State Fair of Texas, and featured the largest number of Bonnie & Clyde artifacts ever assembled under one roof.  

So how to top that Bonnie & Clyde "Plum" of an event??  Do it again!!  No small feat, considering Alan's daunting challenge of once again assembling B&C treasures-- many of which have have changed hands, been lost within Estates or who's whereabouts are now less than understood.  But as good fortune would have it-- in addition to well established Bonnie & Clyde treasures, a number of newly unearthed Bonnie & Clyde artifacts have surfaced within that past decade, which allow for new life to be breathed into this renewed effort at "historical bliss".

With many thanks to Alan, here's what I know at this point.  The Dallas Historical Society plans the new Bonnie & Clyde Exhibit to again be housed at the Hall of State-- Fair Park, Dallas, Texas.  With date TBA-- the exhibition will commence in May of 2013 and run through the end of the year or early into 2014.  So a good long run, for those interested in Bonnie & Clyde History-- to enjoy viewing rare Bonnie & Clyde artifacts.  And despite the proliferation of fakes, which plague this and other histories-- offered by charlatans to unsuspecting buyers within an age of "I don't care" mentality-- let me assure you, "true" Bonnie & Clyde artifacts are few and far between.  So a collection of Bonnie & Clyde historical wares of this magnitude, will be a "quite remarkable" thing to behold.  

As this is not an event to be missed if at all possible to attend-- I would encourage those who can, to keep a spot clear on your calenders, and make plans for what is sure to be an "unforgettable" wingding of a Bonnie & Clyde historical bash.  Alan has kindly asked many who own Bonnie & Clyde artifacts, to make loans to The DHS for this exhibition.  As such, I plan on providing a number of my Bonnie & Clyde artifacts for this "wonderful" cause-- and know of others who've most graciously offered to share their Bonnie & Clyde historical vestiges with Bonnie & Clyde aficionados for this remarkable event.    

Besides the Dallas Historical Society's request for artifacts of known location-- the search is on for whatever authentic Bonnie & Clyde pieces may be available for loan.  Thus an admittedly shameless plug towards aiding this search, in posting a DHS flyer aimed at finding authentic Bonnie & Clyde artifacts.  I would think nothing too small or at all remarkable-- concerning the outlaws or related history, would fail to be considered for exhibition.  So here's that info.

As I've also been asked to participate in this event, seems soon it will be time for a follow up to my 2007 talks at The DHS.  I surely look forward to that renewed experience.  For those who've not had the pleasure of visiting the Dallas Historical Society Museum, you're in for an exceptional treat.  The magnificent Art Deco Age building which houses their collection, is a work of art unto itself-- and "grand" locale for any historical viewing!!  Built in 1936 for The Republic of Texas Centennial, this exceptional building sits amongst a wonderment of 1930's structures perhaps unequaled anywhere.

So as the Beatles sang-- "Grab your coat and grab your hat"-- and plan your trip to Dallas in 2013 for what's bound to be a "gem" of a Bonnie & Clyde historical event-- the new Bonnie & Clyde Exhibition at The Dallas Historical Society Museum/ Hall of State, Dallas.  
 

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