Campaign Buttons through the Years
My God, This is a Hell of a Job! - Campaign Buttons through the Years
(October - November 2008)
Inspired by the hype and competition of the presidential election, we have had the opportunity to launch an exhibition of campaign memorabilia made possible through a donation from former Wheaton College Research Librarian Marcia Grimes. Her collection, which primarily consists of campaign buttons, provides insight into campaign promotions past and present. It also reminds us that even the smallest pin can represent the largest ideas.
Campaign buttons have become highly sought after collectibles and rare pieces have sold for up to $50,000 at auction. Wheaton College is privileged to now have such a diverse collection as the Grimes donation to augment its Special Collections, which include several examples of campaign buttons that date back to the mid-20th century. Campaign buttons are of interest to collectors and political fans alike because they capture moments of our nation's past in one of its most dramatic theatres - that time every four years when the democratic spirit of America is at its peak.
The presidency is indeed one hell of a job; and in almost every election, it takes savvy slogans and ardent supporters to drive a successful campaign towards political office. Even when victory is achieved, criticism is inescapable. The campaign buttons in the Grimes collection not only show support for specific candidates or issues but also demonstrate how the material culture of campaigns has been used to express dissent and/or a desire for change. Campaign buttons are a vehicle to convey our social and political concerns, our values and vision, and our hopes for the future. We are grateful for the opportunity to present this remarkable collection to the Wheaton community.
Emily Hammond '09 and Mell Scalzi '09
Co-Curators
*Twenty-ninth President of the United States Warren Harding (1921-1923) famously said, "My God, This is a hell of a job!"
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