Paper pulp pumpkins

Fall is in the air and Halloween is just around the corner.  I love the old paper pulp pumpkins that were popular in the 1930’s.  These “lanterns” had the consistency of egg cartons and had tissue paper over the the eyes, nose and mouths of the pumpkins.  

These were actually quite flammable so many did not survive.  These creations originated in Germany in the 1920’s and became so popular in the US that companies here started producing them as well.

Many years ago, I was garage saling in Crestview, Florida and found a garage sale where I purchased 3 vintage pumpkin lanterns, several old comic books and a Roy Rogers lunch box for a total of five dollars!  I was so excited!  Then we got stationed in Georgia and the movers accidentally crushed my pumpkins!  

That is when I met John Harley and Bill Court at the Antique Mall in Warner Robins. They gave me an estimate to give to the moving company for reimbursement. At the time, these decorations were highly collectible and I believe we settled around $300. Pretty good return on my investment!

These pulp pumpkins are also referred to as “papier mache” and were also formed into cats and witches which are a little more rare. Beware of reproductions.  You can usually tell the difference just due to the wear and tear on originals.  

There were many “face” styles to choose from and I just love to see them in displays.  You will often see them in magazines this time of year.

I sure wish I still had my antique pumpkins.  I just checked eBay and the unusual German ones (if in excellent condition) are now bringing prices in the high hundreds to low thousands!  Happy Collecting and Happy Halloween!