Description
This collection contains the papers of Hollywood screenwriter Sonya Levien (1888?-1960), including screenplays, literary manuscripts,
correspondence, photographs, awards and ephemera. There is also material in the collection related to Levien's early involvement
with the Suffrage movement, both in America and England, as well as material recounting life in England and surviving the
Blitz in World War.
Background
Sonya Levien (1888?-1960) was born in Russia, most likely around 1888, although her "official" birth date is usually given
as 25 December 1898. Her family immigrated to the United States when she was eight years old, settling on the East Side of
New York City. She worked her way through New York University Law School and was admitted to the bar in 1909. Deciding not
to practice law, she secured a position on the Woman's Journal, a magazine owned by Alice Stone Blackwell, primarily devoted to woman's suffrage. She joined the staff of Metropolitan magazine, eventually becoming an assistant editor. She married the magazine's editor, Carl Hovey, in 1917; they had two children,
and remained married until his death in 1956.
Extent
22 Linear Feet
(37 boxes, 1 reel)
Restrictions
The Huntington Library does not require that researchers request permission to quote from or publish images of this material,
nor does it charge fees for such activities. The responsibility for identifying the copyright holder, if there is one, and
obtaining necessary permissions rests with the researcher.
Availability
Open for use by qualified researchers and by appointment. Please contact Reader Services at the Huntington Library for more
information.