An undated photo of Landes Costumes from NCA archives
By Pam Markel
Landes Costumes in Indianapolis, Indiana, had an interesting history. The Landes family originally started making Scottish Rite Regalia Costumes, (a masonic organization) and styling their wigs. These costumes were made to order as the organization needed them. John Landes, one of Art’s sons, moved on to making graduation robes. These robes were of high quality and cartridge pleated. They sold and rented these garments. This was their main business for years until they moved on to costume rental.
Joe Landes, another son of Art’s, in the '60s-'70s designed a unique Santa costume. The pants had a white fur strip down the outside of each leg. It was made from a good quality velour material. The Landes Santa was distinct and different. According to Rachel Godollei-Johnson, who was the last owner of Landes Costumes before it closed in 2013, and retired NCA member Dan Pugh, they never sold their Santa to another shop.
Art Landes went on to run the Theatre in the Scottish Rite Temple building.
Harry K. Landes was one of the original founders of the National Costumers Association. He was President from 1937-1941. He started Landes Costume Co. An interesting fact, Godollei-Johnson told me Harry was in the sign painting business with Indiana “Hoosier” Poet, James Whitcomb Riley, before starting the costume business.
*Most of the information in this article was given to me by Rachel Godollei-Johnson and Dan Pugh. If anyone has additional information or any corrections, please send them to me at docmarkel@aol.com.