Black Sparrow Press records, 1927-2002, bulk 1970-2002

Summary

Creators:

Black Sparrow Press

Abstract:

The records of Black Sparrow Press including manuscripts, proofs, artwork, photographs, production files, correspondence and ephemera.

Extent:

27 cartons, 1 oversize folder (27.5 linear feet)

Language:

Collection materials are in English

Background

Scope and content:

The records of the Black Sparrow Press contain manuscripts, proofs, artwork, photographs, production files and correspondence that highlight its seminal role as an independent publisher in California and the U.S. Key among the collections holdings include manuscripts, correspondence, photographs and ephemera relating to the career of its primary and most infamous author, Charles Bukowski. In addition, there are extensive project files and correspondence with the breadth of writers published by the press throughout its thirty-six year history. Among these are: Wanda Coleman, John Fante, Wyndam Lewis, Andrei Codrescu, James Broughton, Clayton Eshleman, John Yau, Janice Pommy Vega and Diane Wakoski.

The collection spans the years 1927-2002, with the bulk concentrating on the years 1970-2002. It is divided into five series: I. Projects, II. Correspondence, III. Authors, IV. Subject Files and V. Contracts and Rights.

Biographical / historical:

Established in 1966 by John Martin, Black Sparrow Press is best known for publishing the work of German born and Los Angeles-based poet and author Charles Bukowski. Focusing on poetry, fiction and literary non-fiction, the press also featured the work of Joyce Carol Oates, John Fante, Paul Bowles, William Everson, Aram Saroyan, Eileen Myles and Wanda Coleman, among many others. Noted for its letterpress covers, designed by Martin’s wife Barbara, Black Sparrow also stood out for its commitment to innovative writers and independent publishing. In 2002, Martin closed the press and sold the rights to the work of Bukowski, Fante and Bowles to New York-based Ecco, an imprint of HarperCollins. The rest of the backlist can now be found under the moniker Black Sparrow Books.

Acquisition information:

The Black Sparrow Press records were purchased from John Martin between 1996 and 2002.

Physical location:

Many of the Bancroft Library collections are stored offsite and advance notice may be required for use. For current information on the location of these materials, please consult the library's online catalog.

Rules or conventions:

Finding Aid prepared using Describing Archives: a Content Standard

Location of this collection:

UC Berkeley, Bancroft Library

University of California, Berkeley, The Bancroft Library

Berkeley, CA 94720-6000, US

Contact:

510-642-6481

bancref-library@berkeley.edu

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