Creating A Gem: the Founding of the JL Clark Manufacturing Company August 30, 2008

This exhibit celebrates the origins of J.L. Clark's business. J. L. Clark, a tinsmith, and his son, Harold, built a large metal packaging industry from a small tinsmithing shop in their hardware store on East State Street. They represent the many people of northern Illinois who had an idea and a dream. With hard work, perseverance and the help of dedicated people, they turned their idea into reality. The creation of the Gem Flue Stopper launched them into the field of lithographed metal containers, where they quickly became leaders. This exhibit is their story and includes original office furnishings, old photographs, the original flue stopper and a colorful assortment of antique and modern tins. A video of a1934 picnic and factory tour will bring the people of this remarkable success story to life.