July 20, 1969 West Palm Beach

The 60s were jam packed with the civil rights riots, antiwar protests, women fighting for their equal rights, and hippies. 

Americans were looking for stability following the 1968 election. They voted in Richard Nixon as the solution. Yes, “Tricky Dick” turned out to be more than Americans bargained for. 

It was also the space race. The United States and Russia vying to jettison beyond Earth. 

I imagine it was a scary time. 

So, in such a grim world, it makes me wonder why the decor of the time was so vivid. Were people tired of reading the headlines and wanted to escape the realities? 

Green, yellow, and orange were the colors of choice on everything from wallpaper, carpets and curtains to sofas, chairs and cushions.

I’m not surprised. Green evokes new beginnings, growth, renewal. Yellow is associated with sunshine and hope. Orange can symbolize change and movement. Kinda sums up the 60s, doesn’t it? 

Bodo Hennig leaned into these colors as a miniaturist in the 60s. Hennig’s attention to detail and commitment to quality quickly garnered a reputation for producing quality pieces that transcended toys for children. Hennig's work stood out for its meticulous craftsmanship, realistic design, and use of high-quality materials.

Though he passed away in 2010, Hennig’s contributions to the miniature world endure. He held a solid dedication to authenticity and quality. Which is why his miniatures are highly sought after by collectors worldwide today. 

So to memorialize Bodo Hennig’s great work and that overwhelmingly contentious time, I’ve set the scene. If you’ve been watching “Palm Royale” on Apple TV you may recognize it. 

It’s July 10, 1969. Everyone has just left their spot by the pool. Vogue magazines are strewn about. A collection of short stories half read. A Harvey Wallbanger and a Margarita are barely touched. The Palm Beach Daily News, better known as the “Shiny Sheet,” is left behind. 

Why?

It’s lift off, baby!

Pictured: An assortment of Bodo Hennig's 60s designs: Patio furniture set, lounge, tulip table umbrella and beach towel. Vintage crocheted doily as rug; drinks, Tumdee Miniatures; Vogue July 1969 American edition and British edition, Palm Beach Post and The Honeyed Peace book, all made by Bimbercurly.