Collection context
Summary
- Creators:
- Keck, Don.
- Abstract:
- Extent:
- 3 linear feet (6 Hollinger boxes)
- Language:
- Preferred citation:
-
Charles Koon/Lawrence Welk Show Collection, 1958-1982. Los Angeles Public Library
Background
- Scope and content:
-
The Charles Koon/Lawrence Welk Show Collection consists of approximately 6,034 35mm mounted color slides and 500 3.5” x 5” color photographic prints, documenting week to week stage production of the television program, The Lawrence Welk Show. The collection begins in October 1958, during its run on ABC concludes in April 1982 when the first run episodes of the show stopped being filmed. Images in the collection are generally shot from a distance, so the entire stage and sets are visible, along with performers, including the band. Television cameras can frequently be seen in the images. Air dates are written on the slides or on the verso of the prints, though around 100 prints are undated. Don Keck was the official photographer of The Lawrence Welk Show and he is therefore believed to be the photographer of the images in this collection.
- Biographical / historical:
-
The Lawrence Welk Show was a popular television variety program hosted by big band leader Lawrence Welk. The series aired locally in Los Angeles for four years, from 1951 to 1955, then nationally for another 16 years on ABC from 1955 to 1971, followed by 11 years in first-run syndication from 1971 to 1982. The program aired weekly on Saturday evenings. Charles Koon (1929-2004) was an Art Director who served as the set designer for The Lawrence Welk Show for its entire run.
- Acquisition information:
- Gift of the Charles Koon Estate via Nicholas Koon, son of Charles Koon, November 8, 2021.
Access and use
- Restrictions:
-
This collection is stored on-site at the Central Branch of the Los Angeles Public Library. It is open for research by appointment only.
- Preferred citation:
-
Charles Koon/Lawrence Welk Show Collection, 1958-1982. Los Angeles Public Library
- Location of this collection:
-
Central Library630 W. 5th StreetLos Angeles, CA 90071, US
- Contact:
- (213) 228-7355