Character is like a tree and reputation like a shadow. The shadow is what we think of it; the tree is a real thing.
-- Abraham Lincoln
Innocence Lost
November 22, 2011
I was 11 years old when President Kennedy was assassinated. I remember our teacher running to us at recess with tears streaming down her face. We came back into the class and just sat. There was no news feed, no internet, no radio. Just, the president was shot and now he was dead. It was dark, dismal, sad news.
As usual, I rode my bike home after school. I tried to be strong but instead felt myself getting weaker with every pump of my legs. As I pulled into the driveway and saw my mother with tears streaming down her face, my own floodgates opened. All the strength an 11-year old-could muster suddenly came tumbling down. I ran to my mother, and we wept together in the doorway.EXPAND
My mother encouraged me to write a letter to Mrs. Kennedy. She said that would make Mrs. Kennedy feel better and maybe me, as well. And so I did. I also included a small poem.
Several weeks later, a note from Mrs. Kennedy arrived in our mailbox. It was addressed to me. I am sure millions of similar preprinted notes blanketed the country. But to a small 11-year-old boy in South Alabama, this note was just for me. In my innocence I just knew she cared about me enough to send me a note in return.
I kind of feel John Kennedy had that trait himself. When he spoke we felt he was speaking directly to us. We can argue and disagree about his politics or his choices, but the fact remains that when he died, the innocence that America had, slowly started to erode. Will it come back in this age of technology and instant gratification? I am not sure. But I yearn for it. I yearn for tradition, and simplicity, and elegance, and grace. I saw that in a President who served when I was 11. And sadly I saw part of it vanish the day he died.
My granddaughter always says that she likes the way I talk and dress—she says it reminds her of what it was like a long time ago.
I guess I never let go.
TDS, Harrison customer
Baby, it’s cold outside.
November 17, 2011
Since 1797 (yes, 1700), Johnstons of Elgin has been crafting the most thoughtful knitwear. The Scots truly know how to stay warm in style. Located in the beautiful Scottish Borders, Johnstons of Elgin’s Hawick Mill sits on the banks of the River Teviot. Harrison is honored to present a limited offering of Johnstons of Elgin wool and cashmere blankets, scarves and gloves. These exquisitely crafted classics are perfect gifts to a loved one or perhaps even to yourself. We truly have a limited supply so we encourage you to come in to experience these truly marvelous accessories.
Cashmere and wool scarves
Cashmere and wool gloves
Mr. Bill does it again.
November 17, 2011
Just in from our good friends at Bills Khakis is a wonderful collection of classic sweaters. As only Bills can do, these sweaters look like they could have been made in 1952. The Shoreman’s Sweater is clearly Bing Crosby’s sweater in WhiteChristmas. The genuine New England Shetland Sweater is maybe Bobby Kennedy warming up before the family football game.
Shoreman’s Sweater with leather arm patches.
American Style. American Made.
November 11, 2011
The Oxxford tradition still lives at Harrison. Oxxford clothes are made by the only company in America that still tailors suits by hand. The Oxxford mission remains unchanged. Establish the standard. Since 1916, the world’s leading men have worn Oxxford. Clark Gable, Cary Grant, Walt Disney, Joe DiMaggio. Showcased here is one of our Oxxford sportcoats. Wool, dark blue window pane, two button with side vents. The dress shirt is by Robert Talbott and the silk tie is by Breuer.
This is an inspiring video. A testimony to excellence.
Treasured Belts
November 11, 2011
From our treasured friends at Martin Dingman, a treasure unto itself. These original belts are crafted of French calfskin from the Alsace region of France. This leather is prized throughout Europe, tanned by a tannery 450 years old. Generations of families have kept alive this ancient art. The craftsmen at MD have taken this exquisite leather and crafted it into these exquisite belts.
Shoreman’s Sweater with leather arm patches.
