Object ID
2011.7.213
Object Name
Stand, Book
Object Collection
Alex's Candy Shop (is part of)
Date Created
1920 – 1940
Material
Metal
Object Entities
Object Description
This stand is made of a light metal. The bottom of the piece has two lips that go upwards on the sides. In between these lips there is a rippling in the metal for another piece to lock into in order to hold the object. Next to the wave constructionthe metal curves up in a loop to act as a joint for the other piece.

The square metal piece that the bottom is connected to is completely flat except for a loop joint about halfway up it. This connects to the stand mechanism that fits into the base. The middle piece is what the object leans against.
Origin
Paulina Franks' grandfather, John Rassogianis, came to Chicago in the 1890s. He began his life in the new city by peddling fruits and later, with the help of his sons Alex and George, would open a candy store. In the 1920s Paulina Franks' father Constantine became a part of the family business and the store was able to prosper. When the second business closed Paulina Rassogianis chose to hold as many of the candy store's items as possible and, later, donate them to the National Hellenic Museum.

The Rassogianis family began their candy business in Chicago proper, working out of their own shop named "St. Louis Ice Cream Parlor." Eventually, the shop was closed and the Rassogianis' chose to continue their candy store venture in Berwyn, Illinois. The new shop they chose to open was named Alex's Sweet Shop.

Paulina Franks' father was a key contributor to the success of the Rassogianis candy stores. While Constantine Rassogianis was a noteworthy entrepeneur, he also had many other accomplishments. Among these was his four years of involvment in the Greek national military during World War I wherein he obtained the rank of sergeant. Also, he was a published author and poet, an experienced mandolin player, a church officer and had extensive knowledge of psalti.

This is most likely a small stand to hold a book, picture, or menu in the candy shop.
Rights and Reproduction
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Any other use, such as exhibition, publication, or commercial use, is not allowed except by written permission in accordance with the NHM Image Rights and Reproduction Policy.

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Citation
Stand, Book, 1920 – 1940, Alex's Candy Shop, National Hellenic Museum, https://collections.nationalhellenicmuseum.org/Detail/objects/8711. Accessed 03/28/24.