Decorative motifs, undated

An extensive collection of drawings and clippings, this series provides a depth that shows Lichten's passion for all things Pennsylvania German. She collected cards and menus, as well as reviews of the Broadway show "Plain and Fancy," which portrayed Amish life. There are documents linking some of the research to the Works Progress Administration projects that employed both Lichten and Milhous during the depression. There is extensive observation of costume and customs, accompanied by brochures from formal museum collections.

All aspects of Pennsylvania German life are documented in this series, but special attention is paid to the decorative arts common in this cultural group. Many of the drawings were used in the Index of American Design and WPA projects, as well as in various books written by Lichten. She seemed to have a special interest in Pennsylvania German dower chests and fraktur, since her collecting in these areas is heavy.