The Fleer 125th Anniversary Book Project...

[jeffshep]

Hello all,

I’m currently piecing together an illustrated history on Fleer and its various incarnations, 1885 to present. This will be completed in book form and released at a later date in 2010. The idea is to interweave beautiful full-color photographs with company history to create a thorough visual telling of this confectionery giant. I need help from collectors to achieve this.

If you have anything remotely relating to Fleer, be it some wrappers or packaging, old photographs, history, or even a memory from childhood, please feel free to contact me. The contributions of collectors like yourself will ultimately shape the final outcome of this project.

Below is a version of an ad currently running in The Wrapper:



A little about myself: I’ve primarily been a collector of oddball Topps and Fleer confectionery items and ephemera for the past 20+ years, although anything in the realm of bubble gum fits this category. Frequently contribute images and info to The Wrapper, the definitive source for all things non-sport. In 2003 I was hired by Topps to reconstruct their early company history coinciding with the 50th Anniversary of Bazooka Joe, resulting in numerous newspaper interviews and an appearance on the CBS Early Show. I have a deep appreciation for the unsung artists, designers, and creators who have fashioned many of the items we cherish and collect today, and feel a need to preserve this.

I appreciate your time in reading this and wish everyone a wonderful New Year.

--Jeff Shepherd

[joeadcock]

Jeff

Does any of your book deal with Laughlin? He had done card sets in 70's, and seemed to be linked in some cases to Fleer.

Frank L.

[kylebicking]

I have this one to share. I believe I have a high res pic should you want one.

-Kyle

[jeffshep]

Hi Frank - I'm sure some of the Laughlin sets will make the book. I know little about him but he seems to have done his own thing throughout the 70's, with Fleer obviously earlier. Any articles or info is appreciated.

Kyle - great card, interesting that someone would trim it, as these came pre-cut inside boxes of Bobs and Fruit Hearts. The book will show a bit of packaging from these brands, which should be of interest to collectors. I'll keep the scan offer in mind, thank you.

[Jay Wolt]

Jeff seems like an awesome undertaking, looking forward to buying a copy once completed.

[jeffshep]

Thanks again to everyone who's contacted me - here's a recent article from Sports Collectors Daily:

http://www.sportscollectorsdaily.com...k-project.html