Someone at the Schomberg may know some scholars who have studied Joe Louis
and he should also just make cold calls to. There's a wonderful man named
Gerald Early who's written about boxing and he may have some info:
Early, Gerald
[Gerald Early received his B.A. from the University of Pennsylvania in 1974,
and his M.A. and Ph.D. from Cornell University in 1980 and 1982. He teaches
at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, where he is the Merle Kling
Professor of Modern Letters and Director of the African and Afro-American
Studies Program.
Early's publications include Tuxedo Junction: Essays on American Culture
(1990), My Soul's High Song (editor, 1991), The Selected Writings of Countee
Cullen (editor, 1991), The Culture of Bruising: Essays on Literature,
Prizefighting, and Modern American Culture (1991)
Also, at Princeton, Joyce Carol Oates (of all people) is a huge boxing fan
and she may be a contact for others. Finally, why not just make some cold
calls varoius gyms where the boxers train around NYC? Gleason's in Brooklyn
(where Mike Tyson used to train) may have a few old guys around who know
people who remember the Louis fights. And try getting in touch with
promoters, like Don King--if you can't get hold of him try the law firm that
represents him: SIdley & Austin (at least they did in the 1980's).
I hope all this isn't numbingly obvious.
Best,
BM__MailAutoSigSteve Turtell
Director of Public Programs
New-York Historical Society
Two West 77th Street
New YOrk, NY 10024
212.873.3400 ext. 233
212.595.5447 fax
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This month at N-YHS
March 2, 11:30, Feiffer for Families
March 5, 6:30, Feiffer on Feiffer
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March 25: "Enterprising Women" exhibition opens
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