Jack London collection, 1897-2005

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Summary

Creators:
Bernatovech, Carl J. Jones, Waring. Waring, Jones.
Abstract:
Extent:
100 linear feet; 15 flat file drawers; 15 card file drawers.
Language:
Preferred citation:

Jack London collection . Sonoma State University Library

Background

Scope and content:

The Jack London Collection could be termed the Carl J. Bernatovech Collection as it strongly reflects the collector’s particular interests and feelings regarding Jack London. The collection contains first editions of Jack London’s novels, correspondence written either by or to Jack or Charmian London, writings by both Jack and Charmian London published in magazines (including many first appearances), movie memorabilia, photographs, artifacts, ephemera, and materials about London. The breadth of the collection demonstrates Carl Bernatovech’s passion as a collector, as well as Jack London’s popularity in American popular culture. The collection is 100 linear feet; comprised of 15 flat file drawers; 15 card file drawers.

Biographical / historical:

Jack London (born Jan. 12, 1876, died Nov. 22, 1916) is best known for his books The Call of the Wild, White Fang, and The Sea-Wolf, and a few short stories, such as "To Build a Fire" and "The White Silence." In fact, he was a prolific writer whose fiction explored several regions and their cultures: the Yukon, California, Hawaii, and the Solomon Islands. He experimented with many literary forms, from conventional love stories and dystopias to science fantasy. His noted journalism included war correspondence, boxing stories, and the life of Molokai lepers. A committed socialist, he insisted against editorial pressures to write political essays and insert social criticism in his fiction. He was among the most influential figures of his day, who understood how to create a public persona and use the media to market his self-created image of poor-boy-turned-success. London's great passion was agriculture, and he was well on the way of creating a new model for ranching through his Beauty Ranch when he died of kidney disease at age 40. He left over fifty books of novels, stories, journalism, and essays, many of which have been translated and continue to be read around the world.

Acquisition information:
The collection was donated by Waring Jones in 2000.

Access and use

Restrictions:

Collection is open for research by appointment.

Terms of access:

The library can only claim physical ownership of the collection. Users are responsible for satisfying any claimants of literary property.

Preferred citation:

Jack London collection . Sonoma State University Library

Location of this collection:
Special Collections
1801 E. Cotati Avenue
Rohnert Park, CA 94928, US
Contact:
(707) 664-4152
specialcollections@sonoma.edu
Website