In historical writing and analysis, PRESENTISM is the introduction of present-day ideas and perspectives into depictions or interpretations of the past. I believe presentism is a form of cultural bias, and it creates a distorted understanding of the subject matter. Reading modern notions of morality into the past is committing the error of presentism. I'm well aware that historical accounts are written by people and can be slanted, so I try my hardest to present articles that are fact-based and well researched, without interjecting any of my personal opinions.
Please, practice HISTORICISM; interpreting the past in its own context.
Marshall Field & Co., Chicago’s biggest department store, decided that their elevator girls were in need of a bit of finishing, so they were enrolled in a local charm school.
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ELEVATOR STAFF at Marshall Field store, neatly aligned at their stations with the starter (left), shows the chic results of their "glamourizing." |
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NEW HAIRDO for operator Ann Vratarichis skillfully swept up by an expert. The charm school also reshaped her eyebrows and the curve of her lips. |
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REDUCING EXERCISES include rolling on inflated beach balls, calisthenics, and homework with a rolling pin. One girl lost 35 pounds during the course. |
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Mary Leta Lambour (Dorothy Lamour) |
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Nancy Davis [Reagan] 1950. |
LIFE MAGAZINE PHOTO SHOOT - 1947


BEFORE AND AFTER charm school. June Wahl and Ann Vratarich.


CORRECT STANDING POSITION (right) of an elevator operator should be straight and modest, not too breezy, with body bent and leg in the air (left).


CORRECT BENDING POSITION (right) is shown by an instructor. Knees should be bent and body lowered. Stooping from the waist (left) is undignified.

DICTION DRILLS teach the girls to announce floors and merchandise and answer questions from the store's customers in distinct, well-modulated tones.
Compiled by Neil Gale, Ph.D.
Fascinating! I had no idea the elevator operators were sent to charm school. Another informative and fun piece of history.
ReplyDeleteAs a former part-timer in the downtown store in the late 60s I love reading more about this. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteAn eye opener. I didn't know they were groomed.
ReplyDeleteMy grandmother Delores was an elevator girl in this era, although sadly not pictured.
ReplyDeleteOh how I miss those days as a little kid in the early 60s going there. It was a huge deal, gloves and all. Such class and elegance. Give the lady what she wants is what Mr. Field said I think. Wish Macy’s would have left it alone. Great article Neil !
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