Elizabeth Tashjian, also known as the “Nut Lady,” made a hilarious and memorable appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. Tashjian, an artist and founder of the only nut museum in the country, shared her love and passion for nuts during her interview with Carson.
As soon as Tashjian was introduced as the founder of a nut museum, the audience erupted in laughter, highlighting the double meaning of the word “nut.” However, Tashjian explained that the association between being “a little off the wall” and nuts dates back to Egyptian mythology, where a sky goddess named Nut was seen as the earliest personification of a nut.
Carson was curious about Tashjian’s decision to establish a museum for nuts. Tashjian expressed her desire to showcase the entity of nuts through art, music, history, and lore. According to her, nuts are more than just snack treats; they are treats for the soul. Inspired by nuts, Tashjian paints and arranges them to create artistic masterpieces.
Tashjian emphasized the value of nuts in society. She mentioned that nuts have even influenced the naming of streets and children, like the popular name “Hazel.” Nuts play a major role in our lives and have their own unique significance.
When asked about the different kinds of nuts, Tashjian estimated numerous varieties. She even showcased some fascinating specimens on the show. Brazil nuts, for example, grow in pods, and inside each pod are 8 to 24 seeds. Tashjian also exhibited the cashew, explaining that it is the seed of the cashew pear or cashew apple. She even mentioned how various industries use the juice from cashews to make plastic and synthetic rubber.
Tashjian’s enthusiasm for nuts continued to shine as she shared how they can inspire joy and combat loneliness. She believes that cracking nuts can create a party-like atmosphere and even compared the cracking of nuts to the aroma of coffee. Tashjian suggested having an enormous nutcracker as a slide between two black walnut trees to further enhance the nut experience.
To demonstrate the beauty of nuts, Tashjian displayed works of art created by the Cherokee Indians. She showcased a bracelet made from a section of a black walnut and even a buttery nut. Tashjian’s message was clear – nuts are beautiful and should be celebrated.
The interview concluded with Tashjian presenting a coconut, the “nut that keeps you company.” This particular coconut was a double coconut, weighing a whopping 35 pounds. Tashjian playfully challenged Darwin’s theory, suggesting that nuts should replace apes in our evolution.
Elizabeth Tashjian‘s appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson was a delightful and entertaining experience. Her passion and love for nuts shone through as she shared the history, art, and beauty associated with these little wonders.
Originally aired on October 13, 1981
