I was glad to receive Art Johns’ suggestion to have recognition for Smokey Guttman’s accomplishments. Guttman’s photo appears at the right.
Guttman’s Museum of Nostalgia is an essential stop for Yukoners and visitors alike.
I would love to hear some of his stories and visit his museum, and I will.
I certainly believe that Guttman is a Colourful Five Per Center.
A big thank you to Art Johns and Nola Lamken for this.
Johns’ letter follows:
Hello Jim Robb:
Art Johns nominates Smokey Guttman (Haines Junction) for the Colourful Five Per Cent. Smokey spent hundreds, or more probably thousands of hours of detail work, collection and thought creating the Museum of Nostalgia. That place is a tribute to patience, perseverance, local folk interest and innovation.
All kinds of memorabilia and artifacts he’s found, or replicated, tell Yukon stories in imaginative ways.
For instance, he’s taken tiny toy soldiers and carved and painted them until they become plodding 98’ers. Fascinating browsing and a Yukon historical education await any who venture there.
Also, Smokey is a good storyteller and has fought lots of fires - and he wears his cowboy hat well.
We know you will enjoy this man and his work which has gone almost unrecognized.
Sincerely,
Nola Lamken (for Art Johns)
Anyone with information about this subject, please write Jim Robb: The Colourful Five Per Cent Scrapbook - Can You Identify? c/o the Yukon News, 211 Wood Street, Whitehorse, Yukon, Y1A 2E4, or email through the News website, www.yukon-news.com.