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The Smokey Bear Collection, housed at the National Agricultural Library in Beltsville, Maryland, offers a fascinating glimpse into America's past and its ongoing commitment to wildfire prevention. This unique collection, open to the public by appointment, is an extensive archive of Smokey Bear-related memorabilia, spanning over seven decades.
Smokey Bear, the beloved mascot of the US Forest Service's wildfire prevention campaign, was named after "Smokey" Joe Martin, a brave assistant chief of the New York City Fire Department. The Smokey campaign, launched in 1944, is the longest public advertising campaign ever to exist in the United States, and it remains ongoing today.
The collection includes a variety of items, from trading cards from the Smokey and the Pros sports program, featuring star athletes like Joe Montana, to posters, comics, original artwork, motion pictures, sound recordings, and other memorabilia. Notable celebrities such as Ray Charles, Rod Serling, and Jonathan Winters can also be found in Smokey-related materials.
The Smokey and the Pros sports program aimed to spread the word about Smokey Bear's mission, using the popularity of sports to reach a wider audience. The program's trading cards, now part of the Smokey Bear Collection, indicate that it contains items from various aspects of popular culture.
Smokey Bear's original depiction was not as friendly as his current one. In fact, he was so realistic that he scared children. However, under the drawing of Rudy Wendelin, who took over in 1949, Smokey Bear lost his claws, gained eyelashes, started walking upright, and became more friendly. This transformation, reflecting the evolving cultural norms, has made Smokey Bear a cherished icon of American popular culture.
Casual visitors to the National Agricultural Library can browse a display of collection highlights, offering a glimpse into this rich history. For a more in-depth exploration, appointments can be made to delve deeper into the Smokey Bear Collection. Whether you're a history buff, a pop culture enthusiast, or simply a fan of Smokey Bear, this collection is a must-visit for anyone interested in understanding the long-lasting impact of the Smokey campaign and the enduring appeal of its mascot.
