Charles and Richard Alden scrapbooks, 1885-1893

University of Michigan William L. Clements Library

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909 South University Avenue

Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA

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Restrictions:: The collection is open for research.

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Summary

Creator:: Alden, Charles and Alden, Richard
Abstract:: This collection consists of two matching scrapbooks produced between 1885 and 1893 relating to the trick-cycling career of The Alden Brothers, a two-man team and vaudeville act. Items include contracts, playbills, photographs, clippings, menus, printed cards and invitations, programs (including some printed on silk), business cards, membership certificates, broadsides, and other memorabilia.
Extent:: 2 volumes
Language:: English
Authors:: Collection processed and finding aid created by Meg Bossio, April 2024

Background

Scope and Content:

This collection consists of two matching scrapbooks produced between 1885 and 1893, relating to the trick-cycling career of The Alden Brothers, a two-man team and vaudeville act. Items include contracts, playbills, photographs, clippings, menus, printed cards and invitations, programs (including some printed on silk), business cards, membership certificates, broadsides, and other memorabilia.

Also present in the collection are letterpress broadsides which feature images of the Aldens performing a cycling trick and a letter from ascensionist Achille Philion.

Biographical / Historical:

The Aldens performed with variety artists including Morritt, Trewey, Dan Leno, and Little Tich, as well as quick change artists, acrobats, comics, and other acts. The Aldens also worked as clowns, comics, swimming instructors, and "living statuary."

Acquisition Information:

2023. M-8061 .

Arrangement:

The collection spans two volumes.

Rules or Conventions:

Finding aid prepared using Describing Archives: A Content Standard (DACS)