How musicians dressed 1930s to present

[James Nottage]

In 1996 I wrote a book published by the Autry Museum, entitled "Saddlemaker to the Stars: The Leather and Silver Art of Edward H. Bohlin." The volume is now out of print and difficult to obtain so I am working on a new edition.

Bob Wills, Les "Carrot Top" Andersen and other musicians owned and sometimes wore Bohlin produced Western clothing and frequently had Bohlin silver buckles and other jewelry. I am seeking information on other players who used Bohlin goods. Some of you old-timers (I know, that includes me) might have recollections, some of you might have a buckle laying around. Special examples might be of interest to photograph for the new book. The company is still in business. Are any of you using Bohlin items yourselves?

So, please share what information you can. Photographs showing performers with Bohlin wear are also of interest. If you need information about what you have in turn, I am happy to help.



Thanks much! James Nottage[/i]

[Ron Whitfield]

Good luck in your pursuit, James, I'll be searching for the old book and looking forward to the new one.

[Fred Shannon]

Well if you have a little over $850.00 you can get a copy of the book from here:

http://www.amazon.com/Saddlemaker-Stars ... 0295976055

When I left Hoyle Nix in 1949 he gave me a belt buckle set designed by Bohlin, but unfortunately it was lost in a fire at our ranch house some years ago. I know it didn't cost as much as a copy of the book.

phred

[Erv Niehaus]

If I'm not mistaken, there was mention of Bohlin in the last issue of the magazine; "Cowboys and Indians".

[Bill Howard]

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Here is an example of todays "STAR"..tsk tsk.
And a REAL Star who cared about their looks and fans

[Michael Robertson]

James are the Bohlin products marked in any way?

[Janice Brooks]

James it sounds like it would be a great read. Glad to hear our brothers and sisters are treating you well

[Ron Whitfield]

Here is an example of todays "STAR"..tsk tsk.
And a REAL Star who cared about their looks and fans

While you should never judge a book by it's cover, you just know the high quality of the music greatly outweighs those negatives, besides, look at that rug!... This coming from one who appreciates a performer who's wallet is in their Levi's back pocket. Dressing down for the stage has been going on for decades, Rory Gallagher used to come to shows spiffily dressed only to don his jeans and plaid uniform.

[James Nottage]

Thank you all so much for writing. I've seen the books at $850 also, but you can still pick them up at $50 to $100. Wish I could get some of the profit from those who overcharge!

Fred, can you tell me more about Hoyle Nix and describe the buckle for me? That would be appreciated.

Michael, I'm glad you asked about marks. Bohlin products are always marked. From the late 1920s to about 1980 the standard mark was oval with "BOHLINMADE" arching over the top, "HOLLYWOOD" across the bottom and "CALIF." in the center. After 1980, you will see the Bohlin mark inside a shield. Other,sometimes nearly identical products, were made by other makers and will usually have their names stamped on the backs.

Later day performers have often used Bohlin buckles including Lee Greenwood, George Strait, Don McLean, and I understand that Eric Clapton may have just acquired a buckle with overlaid miniature Stratocaster guitar!

In addition to buckles, Bohlinmade hat bands, watch bands, money clips (for all the big bucks muscians all make) cuff links, bolo ties, etc. were also used by performers.

James Nottage

[Michael Robertson]

Thanks James that pretty much eliminates my buckles, hat bands and such.

[Michael Robertson]

Here is what I found..........
It sure is out of my league $$$
Beautiful work though



http://www.bohlinmade.com/

[Billy Tonnesen]

Back ine 40's and 50' there was a Country Singer named Sam Nichols who also did tooled leather work for many Musicians and Western Movie Stars. Don't know what ever happened to him.

[Larry Edwards]

they dressed pretty snazzy back in those days but that country garb not fer me to uncomfortable to play . i cant play with those cockroach killer boots on just dont work for me . i dont think ya need all that garb to be player.

[Michael Breid]

When those stars of yesteryear took the stage you knew they were stars. Nowadays they look like they just crawled out of a dumpster after a weekend binge. NCAA= No Class At All. What a shame.

[Charles Davidson]

Michhael,That sums it up pretty good. YOU BETCHA,DYK?BC.

[Herb Steiner]

I remember the Bohlin western store on Highland Ave. I used to buy shirts and boots there. I could never afford any silver. Nice memories.