The Badding Rug: A Journey of Philanthropy and Exhibition
The Badding Rug is more than just a textile masterpiece; it is a historical artifact that has traversed the United States, serving as a tool for charity and a curiosity for tourists. Known as the largest rug of its kind, its journey from California to New York and eventually to Hawaii reflects a unique intersection of art, high society, and philanthropy.
Key Facts
- Original Purpose: Raised funds for a premature infant incubator at the Children’s Hospital of the East Bay.
- Notable Patronage: Featured in an exhibit chaired by Mamie Eisenhower.
- Unique Trade: Acquired in 1973 in exchange for a 36-foot Trojan Power boat.
- Global Reach: Displayed in California, New York, and Hawaii.
Early Philanthropy and High Society
The rug first entered the public eye in 1951 in Oakland, California. It was displayed to raise money for the Children’s Hospital of the East Bay, specifically to fund an incubator. This marked the first time a fund was specifically designated for premature infant care at that institution, drawing large crowds eager to see the massive scale of the work.
By 1953, the rug's prestige grew, leading to its inclusion in the Eighth National Exhibition of Amateur Needlework Of Today Inc. Held at the Hammer Galleries in New York City from April 13 to 25, the event was under the honorary chairwomanship of Mamie Eisenhower. The exhibition featured a guest list of prominent figures of the era, including Mrs. Theodore Roosevelt, Mrs. Reginald Fullerton, Mrs. George Patterson, and Mrs. Montgomery Dorsey.
A Transition of Ownership
Following the death of Badding in August 1953, the rug spent nine years on display at the Mrs. Dwight D. Eisenhower Museum in New York City. However, its path took an unexpected turn in 1973 when it was acquired by Carl “Jerry” M. Morris.
In a peculiar transaction, Morris traded a twin-engine 36-foot Trojan Power boat for the rug. Facing the logistical challenge of moving his boat from California to Hawaii, Morris opted for the trade instead. For the next 12 years, the Badding Rug became a popular tourist attraction in Hawaii, displayed at his store, Shoe Tree and Things, located in the Kona Coast Shopping Center in Kailua-Kona.
Later Years and Preservation
After Carl Morris returned to the United States mainland, the rug continued its journey through various venues. It was displayed by the Alameda Historical Society in Alameda, California, for one year, followed by a two-year stint in an antique store on the San Francisco Peninsula. Eventually, the rug was placed in careful storage, where it remained until 2002.
| Year(s) | Location/Entity | Purpose/Context |
|---|---|---|
| 1951 | Oakland, CA | Fundraising for premature infant incubator |
| 1953 | Hammer Galleries, NYC | National Exhibition of Amateur Needlework |
| 1953–1962 | Mrs. Dwight D. Eisenhower Museum, NYC | Post-Badding exhibition |
| 1973–1985 | Shoe Tree and Things, Hawaii | Tourist attraction in Kailua-Kona |
| Post-Hawaii | Alameda Historical Society, CA | One-year historical display |
| Post-Alameda | San Francisco Peninsula | Two-year antique store display |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the original purpose of the Badding Rug's first exhibition?
The rug was first displayed in 1951 to raise funds for an incubator for premature infant care at the Children’s Hospital of the East Bay in Oakland, California.
Who were some of the notable figures associated with the 1953 exhibition?
The exhibition was under the honorary chairwomanship of Mamie Eisenhower and included attendees such as Mrs. Theodore Roosevelt, Mrs. Reginald Fullerton, Mrs. George Patterson, and Mrs. Montgomery Dorsey.
How did Carl “Jerry” M. Morris acquire the rug?
Morris acquired the rug in 1973 by trading a twin-engine 36-foot Trojan Power boat for it, as he found it more cost-effective than transporting the boat to Hawaii.
Where was the rug displayed in Hawaii?
It was displayed for 12 years at the Shoe Tree and Things store in the Kona Coast Shopping Center in Kailua-Kona, where it became a popular tourist attraction.
Where did the rug go after its time in Hawaii?
It was displayed by the Alameda Historical Society in California for one year and then spent two years in an antique store on the San Francisco Peninsula before being stored until 2002.