Browse Items (443 total)

Hobo Convention poster

1980 poster advertising the 80th annual Hobo Convention in Britt, Iowa. Descriptions of rail lines to Britt.

The Historic Graffiti Society pamphlet

Pamphlet from The Hobo Graffiti Society the details the historic significance of hobo codes and graffiti.

Hobo Natural Pear Wood Beard & Stache Comb

A comb was indispensable for the hobo to neaten hair & beard to appear well-groomed during his job hunting. The hobo beard oil (from HoboCompany, Hutto, TX) goes with this display, plus any other grooming aides in the collection.

The Hobo Company…

Photo of "Steamtrain Maury" from newspaper

Photo of Steamtrain Maury freight hopping. Description states "bindle on his back, Steamtrain Graham waits for the train to leave Toledo, Ohio."

Patchwork signs quilt

From the book "The Hobo Style". Items found in the National Hobo Museum in Britt, Iowa. Made by "Texas Mad Man".

"The 19th century harvest hand" article

Article featuring information on the history of hoboing in the 19th century.

The Blade Steam Train Maury newspaper article

Feature of Steamtrain Maury's life on the rails, explanation of various aspects of hobo history and culture, single page of printed newspaper, slightly frayed edges, handle with care

The Last of the Old-Time Hoboes article

Article written about Hood River Blackie and his 32 years of riding the rails.

History of the Hobos, Vagabonds and Nomads

Short story of hoboing and the origins of the Britt Hobo Convention.