About Us – The Theatre Museum

NATIONAL SOCIETY for the PRESERVATION of TENT, FOLK and REPERTOIRE THEATRE

About The Museum of Repertoire Americana

Built and maintained by the Midwest old Settlers and Threshers Association, Inc., the Museum of Repertoire Americana officially opened September 1, 1973, reflecting the long-time dream of repertoire theatre company owners and actors Neil and Caroline Schaffner. The museum is dedicated to the preservation of memorabilia and artifacts of early repertoire theatre. The collection includes numerous painted curtains and scenic pieces; costumes and equipment used by individual performers and technicians; playbills, show cards, advertising sheets, etc.; and an extensive research library of rare scripts, correspondence, tour schedules, production photos and other original source materials. Of special interest is the large collection of videotaped interviews with actual “troupers” describing their professional and personal experiences. The items featured on this website are on display at the Joe Mauck Exhibit Gallery, located inside the Theatre Museum.

About the National Society for the Preservation of Tent, Folk and Repertoire Theatre

Formally incorporated in 1968, the purpose of the National Society is to help preserve the memorabilia and culture of tent, folk and repertoire theatre and to facilitate literary endeavors, scholarly research and public enjoyment and enlightenment. Members of the Society meet for seminars and other events, provide volunteer assistance in the Museum and its research collection, and engage in fund raising activities on behalf of the Museum. Membership is open to anyone who shares the organization’s goals.

Theatre History Seminar

The National Society and Old Threshers have sponsored a theatre history seminar attended by theatre historians and former repertoire performers from across the country every April. At these events, research papers are presented and performers share their talents and their reminiscences. Participating in the joy of a bygone era makes this seminar different from any other theatre history program. The 2019 seminar will mark the golden anniversary of our organization. To present or attend, or for more information, contact us at theatremuseum@yahoo.com.

Come Laugh along with Toby at the 2025 Old Threshers Reunion

The popular comedic character Toby Tolliver will return to the Midwest Old Threshers Reunion this year, with performances of the final scene of “The Hillbilly Hitchin'” at 11 am and 2 pm August 29 and 30 on the Theatre Museum stage.

Toby Tolliver, the red-headed rube known for making wisecracks and foiling the schemes of the high-falutin’, was a beloved mainstay in the traveling tent shows that visited small towns during the 1900s, especially the early decades. He was popularized by Fred Wilson and played by many tent show actors and impresarios, including Neil Schaffner, who, along with his wife and fellow actor Caroline, were instrumental in establishing the Theatre Museum at Old Threshers. Visitors can explore the history of the live professional theatre that enchanted local audiences in the days when radio and television were new.

The 45-minute show on Friday and Saturday of this year’s Old Threshers Reunion will feature not only the final act of “Hillbilly Hitchin'” but musical numbers, a comedic sketch, and an old-time candy pitch. Free-will donations will be accepted.

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