Freakatorium: The Collection of Johnny Fox

Snyder, Bess (b. 1908). Niki Harmon Harmonica Playing Humorist Archive with Babe Ruth Interest. 1940s. Memorabilia box kept by Snyder, including five photographs, among them an 8 x 10” of herself and Babe Ruth, both with harmonicas in hand; and two Hohner harmonicas in original boxes, possibly the same instruments held by Snyder and Ruth, the first a Chromonica Chromatic Harmonica, the second a “Marine Band” model. Additional items include Snyder’s Army photo ID card, her Army cap with pin and patch reading “Camp Shows” a yellow USO Camp Shows armband, a table tent, and handwritten sign. Billed as “Niki Harmon, Hillbilly Humorist,” “The Tennessee Mountain Girl,” or “The Melody Girl,” Bess Snyder was a harmonica playing humorist who performed for the U.S, Army while holding the rank of Captain.