ST. LOUIS, Mo. (First Alert 4) - The Missouri Historical Society(MHS) will soon be given a private collection of Josephine Baker’s memorabilia.

St. Louis philanthropist Mary Strauss gave the collection to the historical society. Baker, who was born Freda Josephine McDonald in the St. Louis Mill Creek neighborhood, was an entertainer and civil-rights activist.

The collection was revealed publicly during a ceremony on Aug. 13.

“Josephine Baker was an extraordinary artist and human being,” Strauss said. “It’s been one of my life’s great joys to amass and care for this collection. I feel so fortunate to have items that capture her at her zenith – programs, posters, photographs, a costume, and Bakerfix items to name but a few – each one reflecting a different side of her brilliance. I’m thri

See Full Page