AFRO-AMERICAN

Detailed manuscript itinerary for lessons to various individuals over two weeks, with ink sketch of black and white minstrel playing the banjo.

Author: 
S. M.' [banjo tutor in Acton, West London; black and white minstrels]
Publication details: 
Dated 'S.M. Septr. 26:08.' On letterhead of 'Holme-Lacey, 7, Hereford Road, Acton, W.'
£38.00

12mo, 2pp. On bifolium. Aged and grubby. Testimony to the popularity of the black and white minstrel genre, at an early date. The drawing, beside the letterhead, is approximately 3.5 x 5 cm, in black and red. On the soles of the banjo-player's shoes is 'S M | 1908', and beneath it the caption 'Lessons'. Gives dates and times of lessons to 'Rackham', 'Miss Tipper', 'Matthias', 'Clayson', 'Mauchel' and others.

Publicity photograph inscribed to Ken [Williams, Penland Golf Course, Cardiff].

Author: 
Frank Radcliffe
Publication details: 
Posted from New York; no date.
£56.00

African-American entertainer and film actor. Minor parts in at least six films in the 50s and 60s, including Dreamboat and Sweet Charity. The photograph measures roughly seven and a half inches by nine inches. Charming shot of a smiling Radcliffe, besuited and behatted and with hands crossed over knee. Stamp of Lewis of Charing Cross Rd on reverse. Inscription reads 'To you Ken I wish the Best Always and I know you are the coming Champ | Frank Radcliffe'. In postmarked 'PHOTOMAILER' envelope with return address given by Radcliffe as 2468 7th Avenue New York City.

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