‘Mystery trunks’ reveal hidden history to Charles City family
A manufacturer's guarantee found inside one of the Charles City trunks, with Zinita Graf's signature at the bottom of the document.
Loyal L. and Norma McLean of Charles City were recently joined by other family members in donating a pair of steamer trunks to Upper Iowa University in Fayette. The trunks are believed to be nearly 100-years-old and were previously owned by UIU alumna and accomplished stage actress, the late Zinita Graf ‘1913. Pictured from left are the McLean’s daughters Cindy (Lockey) and Susan (McGinn), great-grandson Dylan Salinas, and Loyal L. and Norma McLean. Contributed photos
Loyal and Norma McLean open the second trunk found in their Charles City attic.
UIU Executive to the President Holly Wolff is pictured with Cindy and Susan and the trunk's hidden compartment, which was located on the backside of one of the drawers.
Stage actress Zinita Graf, who apparently owned the trunks found in the McLean family's attic.
Zinita Graf
One of two trunks found in the McLean family's attic. This was the only trunk found with a certificate including Zinita Graf's name. The certificate is located on the top left side, underneath the top drawer.
A manufacturer's guarantee found inside one of the Charles City trunks, with Zinita Graf's signature at the bottom of the document.
Loyal L. and Norma McLean of Charles City were recently joined by other family members in donating a pair of steamer trunks to Upper Iowa University in Fayette. The trunks are believed to be nearly 100-years-old and were previously owned by UIU alumna and accomplished stage actress, the late Zinita Graf ‘1913. Pictured from left are the McLean’s daughters Cindy (Lockey) and Susan (McGinn), great-grandson Dylan Salinas, and Loyal L. and Norma McLean. Contributed photos
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