History Book & Exhibition
The researchers at the Geneva History Museum have curated two beautiful presentations of our store’s history—an exhibition and a book, both titled “100 Years of The Little Traveler.” Each provides vintage photos and interesting facts about our past. The book is available to purchase in our Stationery Dept., at the Geneva History Museum Gift Shop, and online at genevahistorymuseum.org.
The exhibition runs through December 23 at 113 S. Third Street, Geneva, IL. $5 admission, includes a $5 coupon to shop at The Little Traveler. Museum Hours: Tues.-Sat. 11-4.
100th Birthday Bash
On September 22, 23 & 24, we’re hosting a three-day birthday celebration. Visit the Events tab to learn more about special guests, events, and giveaways at our place and around town during “Little Traveler Days.”
The Little Traveler Jingle Contest
We know we have the most creative customers around, so who better to create a jingle in honor of The Little Traveler’s 100th anniversary? We invite you to enter a catchy tune in our Jingle Contest. The grand prize is a $500 Little Traveler Gift Card + lots of airtime as we share the jingle on social media and at our 100-Year Celebration. Open to all ages (those under 18 must have a parent’s/guardian’s permission). See all the contest rules and submission guidelines at the Jingle Contest page. Submissions must be received by midnight on Sept. 14.
Signature Anniversary Scents
Our wonderful neighbors Scentcerely Yours at 211 W. State Street have created custom candle scents to honor our history. They’ve crafted a special fragrance of rose petals & peppercorn for our founder, with many more to come. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the reveals! On Sept. 22 from 12-3 in our Gift Gallery, meet Rob Brucato, co-owner of Scentcerely Yours—get insight into the scent blending process & receive a coupon for a future session to create your own scent.
100 Years of Little Traveler Memories
We love reading your Little Traveler memories! This year, we’re collecting your stories in our “100 Years of Little Traveler Memories” digital scrapbook. Please email your Little Traveler memory to [email protected]. Pictures are welcome. View the scrapbook at the 100 Years of Little Traveler Memories page.
Little Traveler Alumni Reunion
September 28; 1:00 - 3:00 pm at the GENEVA HISTORY MUSEUM
If you’ve ever worked at The Little Traveler, you’re invited!
The Little Traveler’s friendly, caring staff members are an essential part of our history. We want to honor past employees with this special event just for them. If you’re a Little Traveler alum, you’re invited to view the “100 Years of The Little Traveler” exhibition at the Geneva History Museum, catch up with old friends, and enjoy light refreshments. RSVP to [email protected]. Please help us by spreading the word to any Little Traveler alumni you know.
Our Artistic Past
Did you know that The Little Traveler once had its very own artist in residence? His name was William Moulis.
In the mid-20th century, when he was a student at the Art Institute of Chicago, our founder, Kate Raftery, commissioned him to paint murals throughout the store. From 1947-1952, he kept an art studio in the “penthouse” of The Little Traveler and contributed artwork and poetry to the Almanack newsletter. He went on to establish the design style for notable hotels and restaurants in Chicago, New York, and Hong Kong.
Much of our 100th Anniversary merchandise features colorized versions of his original artwork.
