By Kay and David Scott
The Ada News
Jan. 21, 2017
Last September we visited Arkansas for a canoe trip on the Buffalo National River, a visit to a Hot Springs bathhouse and a tour of Fort Smith National Historic Site. One of our most interesting discoveries during that trip – at least for one of us – was a Little Rock museum that offers a window into American history through the prism of purses and handbags.
It was yet another example of the unexpected pleasures encountered by travelers.
Purses have held a special place in my heart since I was a little girl. The first purse I remember owning was a small wooden box with a plastic handle. A design was painted on the front, and the box didn’t hold much more than a hankie, but it was all I needed as an 8-year-old.
I am now the owner of several purses — well, maybe more than several — all of which I use, at least occasionally. So I wouldn’t call myself a collector, at least compared with Anita Davis.
Anita, owner of Little Rock’s ESSE Purse Museum and Store, told me the fascinating story of her business.
Collecting purses was her primary interest for more than 30 years, though she casually mentioned an interest in collecting other things. I asked if shoes might be one of these. She smiled and nodded.
Until 10 years ago, her attic served as a storehouse for a collection of more than 2,000 purses. Deciding to share her treasure trove with the public, Anita hired two people to inventory the collection and help select several hundred that could illustrate a history of purses.
The exhibit was well received as it toured small history museums throughout the United States from 2006 through 2011. Its success led Anita to consider a permanent location for a display of a more extensive version of her collection.