TLS, one page, 7.25 x 10.5, Arcan Ridge letterhead, 195[?]. Letter of thanks for a birthday gift, presumably to Katharine Cornell, and referring to an upcoming film documentary on her life. In part, “How can I ever thank you for your delightful gift. ‘The Diary Of A Nobody!’ It has just arrived, and in it we find Nancy’s [Hamilton] and your delicious card which tickles my fingers -- a birthday cake holding up many candles lit for my happiness. Your loving thought thrills me even more than the book…It was good to bask in the freedom and ready understanding with which you, Guthrie, Nancy, Nella and Dick Whittington discussed the documentary film. I am sure that as a result of your warm interest a film will be produced which will redound to my satisfaction in a well presented picture of my daily life and good wrought for the blind.” In 1954 her birthplace, Ivy Green, in Tuscumbia, was made a permanent shrine. It was dedicated on May 7, 1954 with officials of the American Foundation for the Blind and many other agencies and organizations present. In conjunction with this event, the premiere of Keller’s film biography, The Unconquered, produced by Nancy Hamilton and narrated by Katharine Cornell, was held in the nearby city of Birmingham. The film was later renamed Helen Keller in Her Story and in 1955 won an Oscar as the best feature-length documentary film of the year. Signed at the conclusion in pencil by Keller. In fine condition, with two horizontal mailing folds and some mild edge toning. R&R COA. Featured collection item.
