The 20,000 miniatures in the Kruger Collection consist of English and American styles of furniture representing styles dating from the sixteenth century to the twentieth century. Most of the miniatures were made by miniature makers in the 1960s-80s, but there are some antique pieces in the collection.
As her collection grew, so did her eye for quality pieces. Mrs. Kruger became a loyal patron of famous miniature makers such as Eric Pearson, Betty Valentine, Mell Prescott, and Eugene Kupjack.
Eloise Kruger
Lincoln, Nebraska resident Eloise Andrews Kruger began collecting miniatures in the late 1930s. Miniatures were the perfect outlet to combine her love of history, interior design, and research.
Her dedication to acquiring historically accurate pieces led to the development of one of the most impressive miniature collections in the country. At the time of her death in 1995, her miniature collection numbers over 20,000 pieces.
Because of her strong belief in education, the family of Eloise Kruger donated her research library, notes, correspondence, and all her miniatures to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1997.
The Kruger Papers
As a meticulous record keeper, Kruger captured her method as a miniature collector. The papers in her collection document the purchase of the miniatures through correspondence with miniature makers, receipts, and trips to conventions. She connected with many notable miniature artisans of the twentieth-century, including Eric Pearson, Eugene Kupjack, Bob Carlisle, Warren Dick, Mell Prescott, and Betty Valentine.
The archive is available for research.
Support the Collection
Your donation to the Eloise Kruger Fund in Interior Design will sustain the Kruger Collection through:
- Exhibition support
- Educational projects for students
- Outreach efforts
- General operating costs
- Collections care and maintenance