The Real Martin + Osa

Behind most great concepts is a great story. Before Martin + Osa stores, there were the real Martin and Osa Johnson, an American couple from Kansas who ventured in then unknown lands. The Johnson's shared their experiences with the world through photos, lectures and films. From 1917-1936 they captured African life offering many Americans their first understanding of these distant lands.  Their contributions were so magnificent that a museum was built to honor them in their hometown of Chanute, Kansas.

Oh how wonderful to experience such exciting travels and adventures!

Martin, Martin's father, unidentified man and Osa

Africa, 1921

Zebra along the Ol Gueri River 

Africa, 1921

Osa with ostrich eggs

Africa, 1928

To learn more about Martin and Osa, visit the Safari Museum website.
You can view more of their incredible photos here.

One of the things I love most about blogging is that you never know what's next.  After posting my sadness about M + O stores closing I received a comment from the Safari Musuem which I'm embarrassed to say,  didn't know existed. I was aware of the concept of the stores but had no idea of impact this couple truly had in real life. I spent time searching through the museum website among others and am completely fascinated with their story. While searching I came across this...

 In 1940, Osa also wrote a book about their lives. Appropriately named I Married Adventure, it details some of the explorations they encountered. Adding it to my birthday wishlist :) How fabulous is the cover??

Photos courtesy of the Safari Museum.