Both items are from the early 1900s. The first is a 1" button with fixed horizontal bar pin and back paper reading "Pioneer Man'f'g Co. 252 Bowery New York." Front has cartoon illustration of a man performing on a stage who has been pelted with empty cans, hats and other objects as a man on the right steps from the stage side holding a huge hook he is about to apply to the performer's neck. Full text is "'Get The Hook'/Every Thursday Night/London Theatre, Bowery." Second item is a 1.25" tall vertical stickpin joined to a figural 1.5" wide replica with inscription "Get The Hook." Some tiny traces of gold accent paint on the lettering and at the left of the shaft but most of this has worn off although the incised words are easily seen. These items relate to once famous New York theatrical impresario, politico and all-around mover and shaker Henry Clay Miner. He began his career in the entertainment world in the 1860s. He later became an advance man for Buffalo Bill (see items 745, 1171) and other entertainment acts. When he reached New York he established the London Theatre named on this button. This early vaudeville house was located at 235 Broadway. He sold out to a partner but this allowed him to start what became New York's first theater chain where he instituted an amateur night. Winners were given fancy prizes and this became a popular event with a rowdy audience. Someone conceived the idea of yanking particularly untalented acts off stage with a Shepard's crook. This became known as "The Hook" and the device was widely emulated throughout the country. First we've seen of each of these rare and historic items.