This collection contains the papers of writer and Los Angeles Times columnist Al Martínez (1929-2015).

Al Martínez (1929-2015) was a writer and newspaper columnist. He was born July 21, 1929, in Oakland, California. He joined the Marines in 1950 and served in Korea until 1952. While in the Marines he became a combat correspondent and upon discharge became a writer for the Richmond Independent in California. He then worked at the Oakland Tribune as a columnist, feature writer and military writer from 1955-1971. In 1972 he moved with his family to Southern California, taking a job at the Los Angeles Times. Martínez wrote for the Times until 2009, first as a reporter, then becoming a full-time feature columnist in 1984. He also wrote several screenplays for films and television series, as well as essays in various magazines, and ten books. He and his wife Joanne had three children, Cindy, Linda, and Allen (Marty). Martinez died in Los Angeles in January 2015.

173 Linear Feet (138 boxes, 4, binders, 2 oversize folders)

Joanne Martínez, the widow of Al Martínez, retains the literary rights to the material. She can be contacted at Post Office Box 1509, Topanga, CA. 90290. Phone: 310.455.2954.

Open to qualified researchers by prior application through the Reader Services Department. For more information, contact Reader Services.