08/18/2026
A one of a kind artifact from Sharon Kintner…a thank you note to her grandmother, Neta Brain, from Mary Ann Mobley, Miss America 1959. Bill and Wahneta Brain operated a Necchi Sewing Machine business on Washington Avenue in the early 1950’s. Neta used her doll-dressing skills to demonstrate the stitches on the machines. By the end of the 50’s and into the ‘60’s she was well known in the area for the one-of-a-kind costuming she crafted for the Madame Alexander dolls. Neta was honored when she was asked to create a Miss America 1959 doll for Mary Ann Mobley when she visited the Southern Tier Sports and Hobby Show. Mary Ann was gracious and incredibly appreciative, writing a lovely thank you note. Thank you to Bill and Neta Brain’s family for this treasure!