I’ve mentioned more than once that sometimes we come into possession of the most interesting of items in the most interesting of ways. And I am lucky enough to have it happen once again.
Over the last couple of months, there have been articles in the local papers requesting pictures of the Old Grammar School and for them to be sent to the archive (we are still looking if you happen to have any). Due to this article, I was approached by Jean Mistretta who back in 2000 was working on her Elementary Educational Requirements at Douglas Public School in Ms. Yacino’s 4th Grade Class.
As part of her practicum, she had the students complete drawings from different adaptations of Cinderella. These adaptations included The Rough Face Girl by Rafe Martin, Smoky Mountain Rose by Alan Schroeder, The Irish Cinderlad by Shirley Climo, The Egyptian Cinderella by Shirley Climo and Bigfoot Cinderrrrrella by Tony Johnston.
Working with the librarian at the Elementary School, she was able to have the drawings transferred onto cloth and using her quilting skills, created a cloth book of the students’ work, Who’s Got the Slipper?
Ms. Mistretta, in her initial email to me, stated “I have cherished this book for over 25 years — it is very dear to my heart…I am hoping that you might know of someone who might care for it as I do.” I contacted Ms. Mistretta and let her know that we would love to include this item in our archive, where anyone who would wish to view this unique and priceless piece of Douglas School History would have the opportunity to do so. I also let her know that the book would be photographed, allowing the book to be enjoyed while preserving the original item from any possible damage. (Click here to view a PDF of the entire book.)
Things couldn’t have worked out better. The archive has a beautiful, handmade piece of history and Ms. Mistretta is assured that something that she has so deeply cherished will be cared for and preserved.
