HarborChase of Shorewood, Wisconsin, had the distinct honor of a visit by the cast of History Channel’s American Pickers. They were there to see one of our residents, Mathew Gruber, and his impressive duplicate of the Howdy Doody puppet, which he made.
American Pickers is a reality TV series that started airing on the History Channel in 2010. It follows antique and collectible “pickers” Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz as they travel across the country looking for unique items to purchase, either for clients or for their own personal collections. Mike and Frank have collected rare and priceless items throughout the series, including an original Yoda prototype from the Star Wars films, a taxidermied elephant’s head, and many vintage cars, wagons, and motorcycles.
However, a few of the cast members from American Pickers, including Mike Wolfe, were drawn to HarborChase of Shorewood for something a little different. They came to visit resident Mathew Gruber, an artist/inventor and the creator of the (no strings required), automatic duplicate of the original Howdy Doody puppet.
Howdy Doody was a staple in most American households with kids in the 1950s, becoming the first nationally televised children’s show. The show became so popular that it aired every day of the week. By the time the show ended, it had aired over 2,543 episodes. The series followed Howdy Doody, a freckled-faced marionette, alongside host “Buffalo Bob Smith,” as they were joined by their friends – both human and puppet. Gruber’s apartment at HarborChase of Shorewood is full of many of his other puppets, inventions, and animatronics, as well as many unique paintings and portraits.
[Picture Below] Gruber’s apartment at HarborChase of Shorewood is full of many of his other puppets, inventions, and animatronics, as well as many unique paintings and portraits.
Explore Your Passion at HarborChase
HarborChase of Shorewood is thrilled to share the story of Mat Gruber and the American Pickers. We encourage our residents to pursue their passions and interests and are always looking for fun and inspiring stories to share. Each of our residents has a unique history and background and is welcome in our community!
Follow our Facebook page for updates on when Mat’s episode of American Pickers will air, and visit our website to learn more about HarborChase of Shorewood!