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W. C. Handy, 1926-1963, 1970

 Series

Scope and Contents

From the Collection:

The collection is arranged into five series, the largest of which is Correspondence (23 letters from Niles and 194 to him). It includes letters from Irving Berlin, Bruce Bliven, George Gershwin, Lillian Gish, Carl Sandburg, and Telly Savalas. The Writings series includes manuscript essays and notes by Niles as well as journal and newspaper articles published by or about Niles. Files on the Watkinson Library Sheet Music collection include notes and correspondence from Niles regarding how Trinity College might proceed with cataloging the collection. The W.C. Handy series includes correspondence (originals and transcriptions); sheet music; a photograph album gifted to Niles and his wife, Katherine, from W.C. Handy's wife, Irma, shortly after Handy's death; and other memorabilia, mostly programs from Handy's public birthday celebrations. Of note is a copy of a Miguel Covarrubias caricature of Handy. The Memorabilia series includes three photographs and autographed programs and sheet music.

Dates

  • Creation: 1926-1963, 1970

Creator

Conditions Governing Access

This collection is open to the public and must be used in the John M.K. Davis Reading Room of the Watkinson Library, Trinity College Library, Hartford, Connecticut. Researchers must register and agree to copyright and privacy laws when using this collection.

Extent

From the Collection: 2.15 Cubic Feet (1 legal document box of legal and letter size folders, 1 letter document box of letter size folders, and 2 oversize flat boxes containing a photo album, portfolio of folders, framed item, legal size folders, newspapers) ; As defined by UNLV Calculator: 1 letter size Hollinger box (10.25"H x 5"W x 12.5"D) equals .37 cubic feet; 1 legal size Hollinger box (10.25"H x 5"W x 15.5"D) equals .46 cubic feet; 1 oversize flat box (20 x 16.25 x 3.5) equals .66 cubic feet

Language of Materials

From the Collection: English

Repository Details

Part of the Watkinson Library - Archival Collections Repository

Contact:
Trinity College Library
300 Summit St.
Hartford Connecticut 06106