As avid fans of all things Twin Peaks , we’ve had a close eye on Twin Peaks Props for some time now. The enigmatic “Jerry Horne” (named after the sleazy character played by cult actor favorite David Patrick Kelly) runs the website honoring all the remarkable props featured in the cult television show that helped shape the dark serial’s quirky, kitsch atmosphere. Production designer Richard Hoover crafted the now iconic sets, informed by co-creator David Lynch’s painterly style, emphasizing rich colors and textures. Wood plays an important role in the show, referring back to the foreboding forest surrounding the northwestern town. Most props on the show featured quite prominently, helping to peel back the mundane veneer, hinting at a secret or hidden life observed by the ordinary objects like silent spectators.
Horne is lucky enough to own several of the show’s most famous props. He started collecting in the late 1990s (the show ran from 1990 to 1991), and eventually resurrected a second website — Twin Peaks Archive — where he connected with cast and crew, purchased props, rare photos, and other objects directly from them. Horne’s fascination with the show also extends to an upcoming book project with Twin Peaks Unit Publicist and stills photographer Paula K. Shimatsu-U, featuring all the images she shot on set. The duo is planning the release for the show’s 25th anniversary celebration. What’s the most wanted item from the series? “I think the most coveted prop would be Laura’s red diary from the series. I know who owns the green diary from the pilot. However, the red diary more closely matches the Jennifer Lynch diary that was commercially released. It’s out there somewhere,” Horne shared.
We asked Horne to share ten of his favorite Twin Peaks props with us. Grab your slice of cherry pie and a damn fine cup of coffee, and click through our gallery for a look at Twin Peaks history. We’ve also featured one of the new prop replicas that will be on sale soon. Hint: Harry, Hawk, Andy, and Lucy all owned one.
Image credit: Jerry Horne
Little Elvis
“Making his appearance in season one, this great prop needed a bath, and Ben Horne was all ready to give him one. Richard Beymer loved this prop, and several rare stills exist of him parading him around the sets.”
Image credit: Jerry Horne
Ghostwood Button
“Flash forward to season two, and the ‘good’ Ben Horne handed out these buttons at a Stop Ghostwood fundraiser at The Great Northern Hotel. I love wearable props, and a whole box of these were made so more fans get to enjoy them.”
Image credit: Jerry Horne
Windom Earle’s Spider Cage
“My favorite prop. Why? I have no idea. Probably because, like Windom himself, it’s just completely bonkers. I hate spiders by the way.”
Image credit: Jerry Horne
Flesh World Magazine
“The attention to detail in making these props is quite amazing. Each had a different cover and the insides were filled with pictures of cast and crew playing the part of swingers. I’ve received many offers to purchase this prop. I’ve never seen another for sale.”
Image credit: Jerry Horne
One Eyed Jacks Poker Chip
“I don’t own this piece, but I’ve always wanted one. Wouldn’t it be amazing if someone released a poker chip set?” [Editor’s note: yes, please do that.]
Image credit: Jerry Horne
Great Northern Gift Shop Sign
“I was very pleased to acquire this one. There is something very special about pieces completely handmade, and of course wood is such an important part of the Twin Peaks mythos.”
Image credit: Jerry Horne
Double RR Sign
“This piece is rare as it was also used in Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me. I still can’t believe I own a prop that pretty much appears in every scene at the Double RR Diner! One of my favorites.”
Image credit: Jerry Horne
Double RR Mug
“These are antique pieces, and it would be very hard to tell that if they were screen used. I purchased this directly from a crew member. One day, I will drink coffee from it.”
Image credit: Jerry Horne
BOB Sketch
“Amazing sketch of the iconic Killer BOB.. This one belongs to a fellow collector, and I’m so glad it has survived. Although, c’mon, why has this not been framed?”
Image credit: Jerry Horne
Fire Walk with Me Doorway Print
“I’ve been involved in the upcoming release of officially licensed Twin Peaks products, and I’m excited to say that my Doorway print from Fire Walk with Me will be duplicated and available soon. Needless to say, having one of my pieces become an official part of Twin Peaks merchandise history and approved by David Lynch himself is very, very pleasing. It will be available in a few weeks, and I’ll have the latest details at my website.”
Image credit: Jerry Horne
More licensed Twin Peaks products are coming in several waves this year with the first available in a few weeks. Twin Peaks Archive will be doing exclusive previews all year. These Sheriff Deptment Mug prop replicas are just a few of the items that will be going on sale. You can purchase the mugs — and other merchandise — on In the Trees when they become available.