On Friday, July 18 we accepted a very special donation: Creamy the rabbit, an original puppet from the 1950s-60s television show Milky’s Movie Party that aired on WJBK, WXYZ, and WWJ-TV (now WDIV). In a morning press conference at the Detroit Historical Museum, the Janssen family presented the treasured puppet to Jeremy Dimick, Detroit Historical Society Director of Collections, after safeguarding it for many years.
About the ShoW
Sponsored by Twin Pines Dairy, Milky’s Movie Party starred Milky the Clown—first played by Clare Cummings and later by Karrell Fox—who entertained young viewers with a mix of Western movies, cartoons, and magic tricks. The show also featured a colorful cast of supporting characters, including Pierre, Mary Lou, the Twin Pines Milkman, and Milky’s quiet but wise rabbit sidekick, Creamy.
Creamy the puppet would offer safety and behavior tips to children, always whispering in Milky’s ear so that he could pass along the advice. Though Creamy never spoke on camera, he became a favorite among fans for his gentle presence and helpful guidance.
This particular puppet comes to us with a wonderful backstory. The donor’s great-grandfather, grandfather, and father all worked for Twin Pines Dairy, and the puppet has been passed down through the family, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Milky’s family. The Detroit Historical Society is thrilled to welcome Creamy into the collection, where he will be cared for in perpetuity. Look for him on display soon in a community exhibition at Somerset Mall!
Artifact Donations Welcome
Do you have a piece of Detroit's history that you would like to contribute to our collection? Learn more and find out how here.