Gail Claytor Johnson, I am an avid vintage apron collector, wife, mom and grandmother who resides in Atlanta, Georgia. I grew up in Ohio and graduated from Spelman College with a Bachelor's of Arts degree and Mercer University with a Master's of Science degree. I have turned a fun hobby into a part-time business.
My love of vintage aprons led to extensive research of their relevance in the daily life of the African-American community. Future projects include a book that chronicles the importance of aprons in African-American life through pictures, stories, quotes, family recipes, and tidbits.
I would also like to display my ever-growing vintage apron collection through a traveling exhibit at local libraries, museums and historically Black Colleges. My collection has grown to over 300 aprons, some of which date back to late 1800's-early 1900's.
Contact me: johnsongailc@hotmail.com. I buy, sell and trade vintage aprons.
My early apron recollections date back to my grandmother Isabel, affectionately known as "Izzy" who wore an apron everyday. Izzy, was a nurse by profession, but when she later retired, her passion was sewing. Many summer days were spent in her sewing room making Barbie doll clothes and pinafores for her only granddaughter, Gail.
Many women can relate to aprons, whether it was making that first apron in Home Economics class or mid-century television sitcoms or print ads of women wearing aprons advertising household appliances and cleaners.
There is an uplifting feeling when you reach for that apron, put it on and bake your favorite aunt's biscuit recipe.
Auntie Ella's Biscuits
2 cups White Lily self-rising flour
1/2 cup Crisco shortening
1/2 cup buttermilk
Mixture should be moist. Add more buttermilk, if needed.
Knead mixture well; roll out on floured surface, cut with biscuit cutter.
Put a small amount of shortening or butter on top of biscuits before you bake.
Bake 375 degrees on ungreased cookie sheet for 15-20 minutes.
I am available to spread the word through presentations, lectures or displays in an effort to keep the history of aprons alive.
