Ella Fitzgerald/Big Band Photos and Autographs

by Eric
(Williamsport, PA)

Last year, while searching through my mother's attic, my family discovered a stash of old big band era promo pictures and dance cards collected by my grandmother. She worked at Sunset Park in Williamsport, PA in the late 1930s. It was a popular place for big bands to tour. The collection includes 8x10 promo glossies she received from the owners, the Baumgart Sisters. The items were buried inside an old suitcase which prevented any heat or light damage. All are in excellent condition.

The best is a personalized signed glossy caricature of Ella Fiztgerald to my grandmother. It is backed up by a dance card signed by the Blue Barron (dated 10/12/38) which advertises Ella's appearance with the Chick Webb band on October 31,1938 at a Halloween dance. I've searched the Web and have not been able to locate anything like it.

I also found an autographed dance card signed by Ozzie Nelson and Maxine Tappan. Other signed pictures include Horace Heidt, Glen Gray, Freddy Goodman, Mike Riley, Will Osbourne, and Barney Rapp. Many also have the band members autographs. I know they are rare. I'm just not sure what or how to pursue. Any suggestions?