Melanie Cook-It's all about Hairlooms

I don't really consider myself a collector, since I have only one piece of hair jewelry - just a fan, and artist. 


My interest in hairwork began when I repeatedly read the word "hairflower" in the diaries of Emily Hawley Gillespie, a woman who lived near my childhood home in Manchester, Iowa in the 1800s.  When I tried to find information on how to make hairflowers, there was absolutely nothing in print.  After months of fruitless searching, Emily's hairflowers were discovered in Michigan.
Hairflower bouquet, Emily Hawley Gillespie, c. 1865.  Key of names in lower
right corner.  30"x40" solid walnut frame, shadowbox 6" deep.


Mildred Hawley, the spry caretaker of the hairflowers, led me to a lady in Flint, Michigan, who had been demonstrating hairflowers.  I took a vacation to meet Mildred and see the hair of 50 people whom Emily had written about.  We had a delightful afternoon together.  Then I went to Crossroads Village where Pamela Ehrhart, a volunteer, gave me a couple hours of her time to teach me the lost art of hairflowers.   I came home from Michigan and taught my 9-year-old son, Adrian, how to make them.   Every time I make a hairflower,
I'm still amazed at how simple it is.


But even more baffling is how such a sentimental and beautiful art that enjoyed such immense popularity was not preserved in books.  I have made it my goal to bring this art back for the 21st Century, and provide seekers like me with more available information.  T
My first book, The Art of Victorian Hairflowers, will be ready for the new millenium.

Melanie Cook


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Victorian Hairwork SoceityVHS4.jpg (4112 bytes)


Contact Marlys 

Allow 2-4 weeks for most book deliveries over 4 lbs. or large size boxes.

Sale your hair locks for big bucks. pg1* pg2* You could be a hair model
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Returns on books and supplies: I normally do not offer refunds. 
Please call me or email if you intend to return an item.

 New return policy on books and supplies...... 
  • I must be notified before a return is accepted.
  • Refunds accepted depending on item
  • 10% restocking fee on all returns
  • A fee will be charged for any uninsured damaged merchandise