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Grand River Watershed
The Grand River Watershed ➔ Button Hole Mussel Shell
Identifier:
2014.14.4Description:
This artifact is the remains of a mussel shell that was used to create mother-of-pearl buttons, likely in the early 1900s. It is significant because of its excellent condition and rarity as a unique remnant of the industry that once prospered in the region.The pearl button industry was a major one in the United States from the early 1900s to the 1930s and the Grand River was a rich source of mussels in Michigan. Three of the most commonly used mussels to create mother-of-pearl buttons were the mucket (which this shell likely is), the fatmucket, and the pocketbook. By the 1930s and 40s, the industry suffered due to the rapid decline of mussels due to over-harvesting. The decline in Michigan was so severe that in 1944 the Michigan Conservation Commission declared a closed period of five years for the mussels to re-establish themselves naturally.
After World War II plastic buttons dominated the market and with demand for authentic mother-of-pearl buttons down, the pearl button industry finally came to an end.
Date:
1900 – 1940Materials:
Shell, PearlDimensions:
4.5" h 3" wCurrent Location Status:
On ExhibitCollection Tier:
Tier 3Source:
Gift of Charles G. Schoenknecht and Ward A. PaulLinks:
https://mnfi.anr.msu.edu/pdfs/FreshwaterMusselsOfMichigan.pdfExhibit/Program:
Fashion + Nature (April 2022)Fashion + Nature examines the relationships between the natural world and the fashion industry. Clothing has long been produced with natural materials and inspired by the beauty and diversity of the natural world, but the fashion industry has had a largely negative impact on the environment. This exhibit showcases a wide variety of captivating scientific specimens and fascinating garments, to illustrate their relationship to each other and their interconnected histories. Fashion + Nature aims to inspire and educate visitors, encouraging us to become better consumers and reduce the harmful impacts of the fashion industry.
