INTRODUCTION
The Earley W. Bridges Collection of O. Henryana consists primarily of newspaper clippings and secondary sources about William Sidney Porter. Although many items are available in other collections, several are unique to this collection. Of particular interest is the Literary Productions series, which contains Shirley Worth Porter’s recollections about his brother, William Sidney Porter. The correspondence documents Shirley Porter’s efforts to publish his reminiscences as well as efforts by Earley Bridges to trace William Sidney Porter’s family tree. This collection contains no William Sidney Porter originals and no original items contemporary to him. Its main value is research, with some of the photographs being of exhibit quality.
Arrangement: This collection is arranged into seven series by material type. The series are: Correspondence, 1933-1953; Printed Materials, ca. 1945, 1947; Legal Documents, 1941; Literary Productions, ca. 1930s; Newspaper Clippings, 1919-1961; Photographs; and Miscellaneous, ca. 1880-1957, undated.
Provenance: This collection was donated to the Greensboro Historical Museum by Earley W. Bridges and assigned accession number 1961.26.3.
The collection was purchased in large part by Bridges from and from the estate of Shirley Worth Porter, brother of William Sidney Porter (O. Henry). In 1946, he bought “from a lady that waited on [Shirley Worth Porter] during the last years of his life” a collection of documents, photographs and artifacts (writing desk of Mary Jane Virginia Swaim Porter, etc.) of Shirley Porter and his family.
Over the years, these items were scattered throughout the museum and used for various purposes. All items were not marked as belonging to the collection and therefore several are included in the finding aid for the William Sidney Porter Papers (although they are not specifically identified there as Bridges items).
Processing: This collection was processed by Karen C. Carroll., and the finding aid was completed in October 1983. The item listing at the end was compiled around 1980 by an unknown museum staff member.
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTE
For a biographical sketch of O. Henry, see the finding aid for the William Sidney Porter Papers at http://archives.greensborohistory.org/manuscripts/porter-ws.
Earley Bridges (1894-1974) was instrumental in the early years of the Greensboro Masonic Museum and made several donations of O. Henry artifacts to the Greensboro Historical Museum.
SCOPE & CONTENT NOTE
This collection consists primarily of newspaper clippings and secondary sources about William Sidney Porter. Although many items duplicate other collections, several are unique.
A folder of correspondence with Shirley Worth Porter contains several recollections of William Sidney Porter and also documents Shirley Porter’s efforts to publish his remembrances. The Bridges correspondence relates to genealogical research on William Sidney Porter conducted by Mrs. Euphemia Dow, a Massachusetts genealogist, in the early 1950s. It is accompanied by some notes.
Manuscript and typescript personal remembrances of Shirley Worth Porter provide interesting anecdotes from the early life with William Sidney Porter. Most of the printed materials are duplication, except for a circa 1960 postcard of the general land office in Austin, Texas. The most unusual newspaper clippings relate to William Sidney Porter’s Texas years, while the majority of the photographs are black and white enlargements of images in other collections.
SERIES DESCRIPTIONS
1. Correspondence. 53 items. 1933-1953 [bulk 1947-1949].
This series includes an ALS (1947) from Sarah Porter to A.E. Weatherly of Greensboro. A series of correspondence to and from Shirley Porter contains letters to family members about general events and to other persons (editors, publishers, etc.) about publishing in some way his recollections of his brother. Other correspondence deals with questions and facts about William Sidney Porter (for example, did his parents ever live on E. Washington Street, the Porter farm – “Houston” house, an explanation of the Porter plat map, etc.). The incoming and outgoing Bridges letters deal in large part with efforts to trace the lineage of William Sidney Porter. The miscellaneous letter is a presumably unrelated item about Edgeworth Seminary.
2. Printed Materials. 12 items. ca. 1945, 1947.
This series contains seven postcards: two of Greensboro and five from Austin, Texas, including one of the Texas Land Office. Four booklets include two copies of “Glance at Greensboro” (September 1947; the official publication of the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce); and two copies of “The Mystery of O. Henry,” a reprint by the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce of an article published in the August 1947 issue of Reader’s Digest. In addition, the series holds a brochure issued on the 15th anniversary of the Greensboro Historical Museum Society in 1939. It contains a brief history of the organization, a list of its officers and directors, and a membership application.
3. Legal Documents. 1 item. 1941.
This item is an acceptance notice with cover to Shirley Porter for an old age assistance award (social security) from the Pitt County Board of Welfare.
4. Literary Productions. 35 items. ca. 1930s.
These manuscript and typescript anecdotes by Shirley Worth Porter contain his recollections of William Sidney Porter. Many items are written in Shirley Porter’s hand and a duplicate follows. Shirley Porter was gathering the stories, averaging 5 to 7 pages in length, in an effort to publish his recollections. Included in the back are several pages of comments by Earley Bridges (also see the William Sidney Porter Papers 4:3).
5. Newspaper Clippings. ca. 150 items. 1919-1961.
This series contains clippings about William Sidney Porter and his work. It includes a photograph of the general land office in Austin, Texas; an obituary of Mrs. P.G. Roach, William Sidney Porter’s mother-in-law; an article about the discovery of the manuscript version of “The Miracle of Lava Canyon” (1948); a description of the wedding of William Sidney Porter and Athol Estes; articles about various Greensboro Historical Museum acquisitions; reminiscences by acquaintances of William Sidney Porter; O. Henry translations; the obituary of E.M. Oettinger; and sketches of the Ruth Worth Porter house and the Hezekiah Saunders house. Several articles are duplicated.
6. Photographs. 76 items.
| No. of Prints | Size | Topic |
|---|---|---|
| 11 | 4" x 6½" | Historic marker, Riverside Cemetery, Asheville, N.C. |
| 10 | 4" x 6½" | Gravesite of William Sidney Porter, Asheville, N.C. |
| 2 | 4¼" x 6½" | "Rabble" plaque |
| 20 | 3½" x 5½" | O. Henry Museum in Austin, Texas |
| 2 | 5" x 7" | Van der Weyde, chairback pose, W. S. Porter |
| 5 | 5" x 7" | Lina Porter (1 copy, sepia) |
| 2 | 4¾" x 6½" | Ruth W. Porter house |
| 1 | 8" x 10" | Porter Schoolhouse (sketch) |
| 3 | 8" x 10" | Writing desk of M. J. V. S. Porter |
| 6 | 5" x 7" | Writing desk of M. J. V. S. Porter |
| 1 | 8" x 10" | West Market Street Historic Marker |
| 8 | 8" x 10" | San Antonio residence of William Sidney Porter |
| 4 | Varied | Unidentified people, candid photographs, ca.1910 |
7. Miscellaneous. 8 items. ca. 1880-1957, undated.
This series contains a listing of the members of William Sidney Porter’s family with the dates of their admittance to First Presbyterian and West Market Street churches in Greensboro; and a copy of the plat of the Ruth Worth Porter property on West Market Street. It also includes a program for the installation of officers for the Guilford Chapter No. 141 Order of the Eastern Star on March 31, 1952; a letter from the O. Henry Speakers Club about the American Cancer Society Cancer Crusade (1957); and two copies of a print of Greensboro College (ca. 1880).
FOLDER LISTING
| Series | Folder | Contents |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | Correspondence -- Sara C. Porter |
| 2 | Correspondence -- Shirley Worth Porter | |
| 3 | Correspondence -- Earley Bridges | |
| 4 | Correspondence -- Miscellaneous | |
| 2 | 1 | Printed Materials -- Postcards |
| 2 | Printed Materials -- Other | |
| 3 | 1 | Legal Documents (S.W. Porter) |
| 4 | 1 | Literary Productions |
| 5 | 1 | Newspaper Clippings (#2-18) |
| 2 | Newspaper Clippings (#19-63) | |
| 3 | Newspaper Clippings (#67-111) | |
| 4 | Newspaper Clippings (#112) | |
| 5 | Newspaper Clippings (#113-130) | |
| 6 | Newspaper Clippings (#131-174) | |
| 6 | 1 | Photographs |
| 7 | 1 | Miscellaneous |
Item Index (1961.26.3)
NOTE: This item list was compiled around 1980 by an unknown staff member. Items can be found in the series that correspond to their material type.
2.a. “Film Director Expected To Arrive Here Today,” Greensboro Daily News, August 16, 1952.
b. “O. Henry Trial Held Travesty On Justice,” Greensboro Daily News, August 16, 1952.
3. “Elderly Man Recalls Boyhood of O. Henry,” by Dorothy Benjamin, Greensboro Record, August 20, 1952.
4. “O. Henry Memories,” Editorial, Greensboro Daily News, August 24, 1952. (2 copies).
5.a. “Mrs. Porter Disappointed” by James Sloan Coleman, Greensboro Daily News, August 17, 1952.
Concerns O. Henry’s widow, Sara Lindsey Coleman Porter, who was unable to attend the premiere. The article gives an account of her early life and their marriage in 1907, three years before his death.
b. “World Film Premiere To Open: O. Henry Movie Begins Today,” Greensboro Daily News, August 17, 1952.
c. “O. Henry Played At Movie Site,” Greensboro Daily News, August 17, 1952.
He played on the lot where the Carolina Theater was later built.
6. “O. Henry’s Stories Come Home,” Editorial, Greensboro Daily News, August 17, 1952.
The editor defends O. Henry’s works against critics and praises him for his understanding of humanity.
7. Advertisement “O. Henry’s Full House,” Greensboro Record, August 15, 1952.
First ad for the movie in this paper.
8. “The Ransom of Red Chief,” by O. Henry, Greensboro Daily News, August 14, 1952. (2 copies).
Reprint of O. Henry short story.
9. “August 17 – 23 Is Dedicated to O. Henry,” Greensboro Record, August 13, 1952.
Mayor Pro Tem R. Boyd Morris proclaimed this week as “O. Henry Week” in Greensboro. Mentions the movie and the O. Henry exhibit at the Museum.
10. “O. Henry’s Kin Hopes to See Film Premiere,” Greensboro Record, August 13, 1952.
O. Henry’s first cousin Samuel Sydney Porter of Reidsville is described.
11. “The Last Leaf,” by O. Henry, Greensboro Daily News, August 13, 1952.
Reprint of O. Henry short story.
12. “O. Henry Left Greensboro to Gain Fame But His Memory Is Still Cherished Here,” by Robert H. Fowler, Greensboro Daily News, August 10, 1952 (with pictures). (2 copies).
Description of O. Henry’s first 20 years in Greensboro.
13.a. “Movie Stars Don’t Attend Premiere,” Greensboro Daily News, August 11, 1952.
The stars sent their regrets at not being able to attend.
b. “First O. Henry Story Published in Today’s News,” Greensboro Daily News, August 11, 1952.
Five leading stories to be printed in the paper, with the first being “The Clarion Call” (1905).
14. “The Cop and the Anthem,” by O. Henry, Greensboro Daily News, August 12, 1952. (2 copies).
Reprint of O. Henry short story.
15. “Full O. Henry Celebration Scheduled,” Greensboro Daily News, August 12, 1952. (3 copies).
Greensboro Historical Museum to hold an open house and program to celebrate “O. Henry Week.”
16. “The Clarion Call,” by O. Henry, Greensboro Daily News, August 11, 1952.
Reprint of O. Henry short story.
17. “The Gift of the Magi,” by O. Henry, Greensboro Daily News, August 15, 1952.
Reprint of O. Henry short story.
18. “O. Henry Wins Heart of India, Native Says,” by Edward N. Post, Greensboro Daily News, August 15, 1952.
Dr. Amyia Chakravarty, native of India and English literature authority, praises O. Henry’s style and universal qualities.
19.a. “City Pays Tribute To A Native Son,” Greensboro Daily News, August 18, 1952.
b. “Cousin Recalls O. Henry Stay In New York,” Greensboro Daily News, August 18, 1952.
20. “Will Porter Wrote Many Stories of Old South, Next To New York Tales Considered His Best,” by Cathleen Pike, Greensboro Daily News, October 3, 1954.
21. “New Slant on O. Henry Turned Up By Writer,” Greensboro Daily News, July 19, 1953.
Dale Kramer, a New York writer, did extensive research in Greensboro for his biography of O. Henry. He turned up the fact that William Sidney Porter had spent time in prison. This gave a new slant to O. Henry, a more human slant.
22. “O. Henry’s Full House,” Editorial, Greensboro Daily News, August 20, 1952.
An article on the showing of a moving picture version of five of O. Henry’s stories. These included “The Clarion Call,” “The Ransom of Red Chief,” and “The Gift of the Magi.” The director of the “Gift of the Magi,” Henry King, flew from Hollywood for the showing.
23. Carolina Theater advertisement for the World Premiere of “O. Henry’s Full House,” Greensboro Daily News, August 18, 1952.
24. “World Premiere of O. Henry Stories in Film Slated for Carolina Today,” Greensboro Daily News, August 17, 1952. (2 copies).
An article announcing the opening of O. Henry’s “Full House” of five stories. John Steinbeck, noted author, narrated the movies, which included: “The Clarion Call” with actors Dale Robertson and Richard Widmark; “The Cop and the Anthem” with Charles Laughton, Marilyn Monroe, and David Wayne; “The Last Leaf” with Anne Baxter; “The Ransom of Red Chief” with Fred Allen and Oscar Levant; and “The Gift of the Magi” with Jeanne Crain and Farley Granger.
25. “A Red Letter Event,” Editorial, Greensboro Record, August 16, 1952.
The premiere of O. Henry’s “Full House” was selected to be held in Greensboro, the birthplace of William Sidney Porter (pen name – O. Henry). The idea came from a Lindley Junior High School English Class. O. Henry wrote about ordinary people with understanding and sympathy.
26. “Reidsville Resident Tells of Youth, ‘Cousin Will,’” by Billie Jacobs Wright, Greensboro Daily News, August 16, 1952.
Samuel Sidney Porter, born in 1871 in Asheboro, was the cousin of William Sidney Porter. He had his memories, and also a complete set, his cousin’s works.
27. Professor Burton’s Class – “O. Henry Short Stories Continue to Hold Freshness, Appeal,” by W. C. Burton, Greensboro Daily News, August 17, 1952.
Professor Burton praised the use of O. Henry’s stories as movies. He also praised O. Henry’s “Full House,” especially the choice of stories used. O. Henry wrote about characters that people could love and enjoy. Professor Burton quoted a tribute to him by Christopher Morley. He said people would always enjoy O. Henry’s style and stories.
28. An advertisement in the Greensboro Daily News about the World Premiere of “O. Henry’s Full House,” including pictures of twelve of the top named stars. August 17, 1952. (2 copies).
29. An advertisement in the Greensboro Daily News about the World Premiere of “O. Henry’s Full House,” August 14, 1952.
30. An advertisement in the Greensboro Record about the World Premiere of “O. Henry’s Full House,” August 13, 1952 (same as copy number 29).
31. “Incident in O. Henry’s Life Was Like Stories.”
Eli M. Oettinger, retired Greensboro Lumberman, told of an incident related to him by Dr. C. Alphonso Smith, O. Henry’s biographer. Dr. Smith, after much effort, secured an interview with the “promising” writer, O. Henry. Upon entering O. Henry’s room, he was surprised to find his old friend from Greensboro, William Sydney Porter. This is typical of the type of incident on which to base an O. Henry story.
32. “’O. Henry’s Full House’ To Have Premiere Here,” Greensboro Daily News, July 11, 1952. A big celebration with dignitaries speaking, bands playing, and general entertainment was planned for the World Premiere of “O. Henry’s Full House.” Students from Lindley Junior High started the campaign to have the premiere in William Sidney Porter’s hometown, Greensboro.
33. “Film Premiere Will Honor O. Henry,” Greensboro Daily News, July 14, 1952.
The premiere will to be held on August 11. The article lists the stories included in addition to several of the stars of each.
34. “O. Henry Film Premiere Slated Here August 17,” Greensboro Daily News, July 24, 1952.
A list of the stories and actors.
35. “’The O. Henry Story’ – Movie Premiere Here Considered,” Greensboro Daily News, April 24, 1952.
Mayor Robert Frazier attempts to get premiere in Greensboro. Requests come from Lindley Junior High School English class.
36. “Greensboro Bids Again For First Showing of Film,” Greensboro Record, July 2, 1952.
Mayor Robert Frazier wrote to Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation asking them to seriously consider Greensboro as the site of the premiere of “O. Henry’s Full House.”
37. First “O. Henry’s Full House” World Premiere advertisement, Greensboro Daily News, August 8, 1952.
38. “World Premiere of O. Henry Film Scheduled Here,” Greensboro Record, July 9, 1952.
Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation accepted the invitation to bring the World Premiere of “O. Henry’s Full House.” Plans were being made for the big opening at the Carolina Theater.
39. 41 pictures from “O. Henry’s Full House,” Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation, August 25, 1952.
40. 12 pictures from “O. Henry’s Full House,” August 18, 1952.
41. 8 Still Pictures from “Full House.” Stan Easty, Commercial and Aerial Photographer, August 25, 1952.
42. Photograph of O. Henry’s home in Austin, Texas. (2 copies).
43. Picture of Land Office at Austin, where O. Henry worked.
44. Postcard of the “Old State Land Office Building, Used as a Museum by the Daughters of the Republic and the Daughters of the Confederacy, Austin, Texas”
45. “Pastor Friend of O. Henry Aids in Woman’s Funeral.”
Account of funeral of Mrs. Margaret Jane Roach, O. Henry’s mother-in-law (her picture).
46. “O. Henry Story Returns: O’Quinn Find Original Manuscript,” by Lorraine Barnes, April 11, 1948.
First short story sold by O. Henry, “The Miracle of Lava Canyon,” was returned to Austin, Texas, where it was written. An account of the story.
47. “Wedding of O. Henry and Athol Estes described by witness to ceremony,” by Floy Robinson, The Austin Statesman, June 4, 1940.
Nos. 42 – 47 in Folder A.
48. “O. Henry, Seeking Health, Went to Texas with Doctor,” by Mary Elinor Lazenby, Greensboro Daily News, September 14, 1947. (2 copies).
Tuberculosis drove him to Texas in 1882 with Dr. James King Hall. Account of their acquaintance.
49. “Greensboro Observes O. Henry Anniversary,” Greensboro Record, September 11, 1947.
His 87th anniversary (birth). Historical markers replaced, drug store reproduced.
50. “Mother of O. Henry: Mary Swaim was a Cultured, Refined and Gifted Girl,” by Nellie Rowe Jones, Greensboro Daily News, September 7, 1941.
Account of her life and her influence on O. Henry.
51. O. Henry’s Tenet – written by his brother Shirley W. Porter. (2 copies).
52. “Reidsville Man Remembers Friendly Act of Will Porter,” by W. C. Burton, Greensboro Daily News, June 30, 1946. (2 copies).
T. E. Idof of Reidsville was greatly influenced by his older friend Willie Porter. They played and explored together. Their friendship continued through letters after Willie Porter left Greensboro. Idol received a letter from Willie Porter while he was in prison proclaiming his innocence. Both men remained friends until death separated them.
53. “O. Henry Curios Added to Historical Museum,” Greensboro Record, September 3, 1947.
A drawing by Porter and other odds and ends given by Edward P. Benbow, grandson of a boyhood friend of O. Henry.
54. “Tribute to ‘Miss Lina’ Who Taught O. Henry – Short Story Writer’s Aunt Built School in Side Yard,” by A. W. McAlister, Greensboro Daily News, September 6, 1942.
A tribute to Miss Lina Porter – Will Porter was her favorite. She taught O. Henry all he knew except what he learned from life.
55. “O. Henry Sleeps Well,” by James Larkin Pearson, Greensboro Daily News, March 21, 1937.
A simple gravestone on a sunny hillside marks final resting place.
56. Photograph of O. Henry Home in Austin, Texas.
57. Photograph of Miss Lina Porter.
58. Picture of O. Henry’s grave in Asheville, N.C.
59. Picture of Lina Porter’s School in Greensboro, N.C. Will Porter attended school here.
60. Map of the birthplace of O. Henry.
61. “Old Porter Drug Fixtures Put in O. Henry Museum,” Greensboro Daily News, June 17, 1951.
The original fixtures placed in the O. Henry-Richardson Memorial Room in the Greensboro Historical Museum. After much searching, the fixtures were located in various places and gathered together to form the collection at the museum.
62. “O. Henry Service at Store Replica Set September 11,” Greensboro Daily News, August 23, 1947.
Formal opening of the “W. C. Porter and Company” drug store at the Greensboro Historical Museum.
63.a. “Letters Reveal O. Henry’s Hunger, Need of Cash,” Greensboro Daily News, October 17, 1954. (2 copies).
Pictures of letters by O. Henry.
b. “Exhibits in Museum Shed New Light on Author,” by Burke Davis, Greensboro Daily News, October 17, 1954.
Description of O. Henry Collection at museum.
c. “Biography of O. Henry,” by Evangeline Davis, Greensboro Daily News, October 17, 1954.
Review of book The Heart of O. Henry by Dale Kramer.
64. 4 pictures of O. Henry hotpad (1 large, 3 small, 2 negatives).
65. 3 picture postcards of Austin, Texas.
a. “Churches of Austin, Texas,” including First Southern Presbyterian Church where O. Henry and his wife Athol used to sing.
b. “Greetings from Austin, Texas”
c. “Surrender of Santa Anna, April 22nd, 1836”
66. 2 pictures of O. Henry home in Austin, Texas.
67. “O. Henry, Publicist,” Greensboro Daily News, July 2, 1943.
Concerns O. Henry’s idea of New York City.
68. “Portraits of Texas’ Former Land Commissioners Will Be Presented to State by Bascom Giles,” Sunday American-Statesman, Austin, Texas, May 9, 1945.
O. Henry worked as a land office draftsman during the commissionership of R. M. Hall (1887-91).
69. “Court Reporter Helped Build Circulation.”
Charles E. Pickle recalls O. Henry when he worked for the Austin Statesmen. Mr. Pickle was court reporter during trial.
70. “O. Henry Home Gets New Gifts.”
Account of items of O. Henry period given to the O. Henry home in Austin.
71. “Was Not Bank Examiner in O. Henry’s Case,” January 26, 1938.
A correction to the paper from J. M. Logan who states that he was not the bank examiner who handled the case.
72. 10 pamphlets – “The Mystery of O. Henry,” by Henry James Forman – story of O. Henry especially during the years of his writings.
73. 8 pamphlets – “Glance at Greensboro,” September 1947 – contains articles on O. Henry’s name, the O. Henry room at the Museum and the O. Henry Collection.
74. Application of Mrs. Shirley Worth Porter for old age assistance, June 1941, Pitt County Board of Welfare.
75. Letter from Caroline Coffee Thornton to Shirley Porter, December 17, 1936. She sent him a clipping of his sketch of O. Henry.
76. 9 pictures of O. Henry’s mother’s portable writing desk. Includes: 1 large picture of open desk; 3 small pictures of open desk; 2 large and 3 small pictures of closed desk; and 5 pictures of O. Henry.
77. 2 pictures of O. Henry Memorial Tablet.
78. 2 pictures of Miss Lina Porter’s school.
79. Map of O. Henry’s birthplace. (19 copies).
80. Folder of material about O. Henry’s ancestors – letters to and from Mr. Earley W. Bridges included.
81. Items of O. Henry and Shirley Porter:
a. Letter to S. W. Porter from Caroline Coffee Thornton with newspaper clipping about the death of Mrs. S. W. Porter, wife of Shirley Porter, O. Henry’s brother.
b. Newspaper article: “Friend of O. Henry Dies at Towson,” about the death of William Wash Williams, who wrote a biography of O. Henry entitled The Quiet Lodger of Irving Place. (Not located in 2015.)
c. Picture of Grover Parker and Susie P.
d. Letter to S. W. Porter from I. O. Wadford, June 30, 1941.
e. 2 postcards – one of Mrs. James Worth and one of a baby.
f. Letter from Mrs. Conklin to Mr. Bridges giving K. R. Porter’s address.
g. “A Short-Short Visit to O. Henry’s Home Town,” by Fulton Oursler – on tour of Greensboro, he saw the O. Henry Hotel.
h. Letter from S. W. Porter to Miss Moore acknowledging her letter and promising to send a picture of his mother.
i. Letter from Mary Frances Moore asking S. W. Porter to send information about his mother, Mary Swaim Porter.
j. Picture of Mary Swaim Porter.
82. O. Henry Speakers Club sponsored “The American Cancer Society Residential Drive.”
83. “I Can Tell You One Thing: My Husband Was Not A Thief,” by Walter Carroll, Durham Morning Herald, March 16, 1952.
Mrs. W. S. Porter stated that her husband was not guilty of embezzlement. Mrs. Porter (Sara L. Coleman) knew O. Henry when they were children. They were married in a Presbyterian Church in Asheville. Her favorite of O. Henry’s stories was “The Gift of the Magi.” Her last words in the interview were “Will was a wonderful man!” Article includes pictures of both Mrs. Porter and O. Henry.
84. “Museum Will Observe O. Henry Anniversary,” Greensboro Daily News, September 9, 1951. (2 copies).
89th Anniversary of O. Henry’s birth on September 11. Special display at Greensboro Historical Museum.
85. “Foundation of Vast Business Laid in Porter’s Drug Store,” by Ted Thompson, Greensboro Daily News, August 15, 1943.
O. Henry and Lunsford Richardson both rose to riches. Richardson developed formula for Vicks VapoRub.
86. Articles in Greensboro Daily News, September 7, 1947. (3 copies).
a. “O. Henry Exhibit Placed in Museum,” by Lucille Cathey.
Opening of O. Henry Room at the Greensboro Historical Museum – Marks 85th anniversary of O. Henry’s birth.
b. “Visits O. Henry’s Grave,” by E. P. Holmes
Riverside Cemetery in Asheville
c. “O. Henry Great Believer in Religion, Says Brother,” by Earley W. Bridges
Shirley W. Porter says that O. Henry attended Sunday School. He liked Rev. Jacob Henry Smith and Rev. Jesse Cunningham, of Greensboro.
87. “Greensboro Historical Museum Society: 1924-1939.”
Flier containing a history of the organization, lists of its officer and directors, and a membership application.
88. “Portrait Will Be Presented: O. Henry Painting to Be Presented Tonight,” Greensboro Record, September 27, 1939.
89. “Council Seeks O. Henry Honor: Removal Of Remains To City Sought,” Greensboro Record, March 7, 1945.
90. Picture of O. Henry marker on West Market Street.
91. 9 pictures of the O. Henry House in San Antonio, Texas.
92. Picture of W. S. Porter’s grave, Asheville, N.C.
93. 14 postcards of Greensboro – picture of O. Henry in one corner.
94. 6 pictures of Greensboro College.
95. 18 pictures of O. Henry Home, Austin, Texas.
96.a. 9 pictures of O. Henry’s grave, Asheville, N.C.
b. 12 pictures of O. Henry marker, Asheville, N.C.
97. 4 pictures of Lina Porter, O. Henry’s aunt and teacher.
98. “Eisenhower Without Power to Grant Pardon to O. Henry, Aide Declares,” Greensboro Record, December 12, 1958.
O. Henry served term for embezzlement 60 years before; President can’t grant posthumous pardon.
99. “No Happy Ending,” Greensboro Daily News, December 13, 1958. Same as above.
100. “’Fair Lady’ Stars in O. Henry Tale,” by Margaret McManus, Greensboro Daily News, December 7, 1958.
Sally Ann Howes to star in “The Gift of the Magi” on television.
101. “Writings of O. Henry collected by Lawyer,” by Roy Kemp, Greensboro Daily News, December 9, 1957.
Concerns large collection of Paul S. Clarkson of Baltimore, Maryland. He wrote A Bibliography of William Sydney Porter (O. Henry).
102. Picture of Lina Porter and her schoolhouse.
103. “Alderman Schedules School Unit Exhibit of New O. Henryana,” Greensboro Record, October 26, 1954.
104. “A New and Excellent Biography of O. Henry by Langford,” by Ruth Laughlin, Greensboro Daily News, June 30, 1957.
Review of Alias O. Henry, by Gerald Langford.
105. “The Real O. Henry,” Greensboro Daily News, June 26, 1957.
Editorial concerning the biography Alias O. Henry, by Gerald Langford, Professor of English at the University of Texas.
106. “Birthplace of O. Henry Is Reconstructed by the Artist,” by J. S. Fulton, Greensboro Daily News, December 12, 1937. Includes a pencil sketch of the home.
107. “O. Henry In the News,” Editorial, Greensboro Daily News, November 24, 1956.
Dispute concerning O. Henry’s honeymoon house in Austin, Texas. Also about popularity of O. Henry’s works.
108. “Saunders Inn Had Decisive Part In Giving O. Henry To This Area,” Greensboro Record, August 25, 1956.
Sidney Porter, grandfather of O. Henry, stayed here in 1822 and was persuaded to remain and teach school in Greensboro.
109.a. “Portrayer of O. Henry Tells of Favorite Role,” by Julius Morrison, Greensboro Daily News, January 14, 1957.
O. Henry on Television – “O’Henry Playhouse”
b. “Ceremony Set to Dedicate Boulevard”
Dedication of O. Henry Boulevard. Thomas Mitchell, actor, there for program.
110. “Museum Obtains Letter by Friend of O. Henry,” Greensboro Daily News, January 9, 1955.
Letter from Al Jennings, friend of O. Henry, to Dr. Archibald Henderson, who requested a contribution to an O. Henry Memorial.
111. “Museum Gets New O. Henry Letter,” Greensboro Record, October 25, 1954.
Reprint of first letter from William Sydney Porter to his future wife, Sara.
112. O. Henry Edition of Greensboro Daily News, July 2, 1919.
Articles by people who knew him, picture of original manuscript of “A Cactus Thorn.”
113. “Celebrating O. Henry,” Greensboro Daily News, January 23, 1944.
“Letter to the Editor” from Mrs. R. L. Justice. She praised suggestion of more advertisement about O. Henry.
114. “Widow Denies Council Offer: Body of O. Henry Not To Be Removed Here,” Greensboro Record, March 9, 1945.
Mrs. Porter refused to let O. Henry’s remains be transferred to Greensboro.
115. “O. Henry Honeymoon House Subject of Dispute,” Greensboro Daily News, November 22, 1956 (Picture).
116. “Sidney Porter, O. Henry Kin, Dies at 86,” Greensboro Daily News, March 12, 1957.
Samuel Sidney Porter, cousin of O. Henry, dies in Asheville.
117. “Memories of O. Henry,” Greensboro Daily News, September 20, 1936.
Letter to the Editor from W. A. Stratford. Pleased about article on the house in which the Porter’s lived.
118. “An O. Henry Museum At Austin, Texas,” (Edmund Travis, in the Texas Weekly), Greensboro Record, May 26, 1936.
119. “O. Henry: This Is Wrong, By Gosh, New Society States Emphatically,” Greensboro Record, March 24, 1947.
O. Henry not O’Henry.
120. “O. Henry’s Widow Celebrated 84th Birthday at Home,” Greensboro Daily News, February 19, 1952. (2 copies).
Mrs. W.S. Porter in Asheville. “Cisco Kid” (character of O. Henry’s) on TV.
121. “The Mystery of O. Henry,” by Henry James Forman, The Reader’s Digest, March 26, 1961.
Article about O. Henry during his years of writing.
122. “Reidsville Man Remembers Friendly Act of Will Porter,” by W. C. Burton, Greensboro Daily News, June 30, 1946.
T. E. Idol of Reidsville recalls friendship with O. Henry. (2 copies).
123. “Case of Missing O. Henry Marker Proves Big Mystery to Chamber,” Greensboro Record, August 28, 1947.
Plaque in front of Masonic Temple showing where O. Henry was born is missing. (3 copies).
124. “Missing Marker Mystery Solved; O. Henry Sign Located in Raleigh,” Greensboro Record, August 29, 1947. (2 copies).
Marker was broken and sent to Raleigh for repairs. Would be returned.
125. “Greensboro and O. Henry.”
Concerns opening of O. Henry Room at Museum; also the popularity of his works.
126. “Greensboro Observes O. Henry Anniversary,” Greensboro Record, September 11, 1947. (4 copies).
Replacement of marker of his birthplace and opening of memorial room at the Museum.
127. “O. Henry’s Grave,” Greensboro Daily News, September 13, 1947.
Concerns location of grave.
128. “O. Henry, Seeking Health, Went to Texas with Doctor,” by Mary Elinor Lazenby, Greensboro Daily News, September 14, 1947. (4 copies).
Dr. James King Hall recommended that O. Henry go to Texas to aid his tubercular condition.
129. “O. Henry in North Carolina,” by Cathleen Pike, The State, August 17, 1946.
Sketch of his life and writings.
130. “From O. Henry by Proxy,” by Ida Briggs Henderson, The State, December 28, 1935.
His friends tried to gain recognition for his works.
131. “Stone Bench Now on G. C. Campus Once in Garden of O. Henry’s Great Uncle,” by Doris Dale Reynolds, Greensboro Daily News, September 23, 1951. (3 copies).
Uncle of author was Robert Moderwell Sloan, four times Mayor of Greensboro. Bench was gift of Mrs. Waldo Porter.
132. “Five O. Henry Tales To Be Filmed,” by Carol Leh, Greensboro Daily News, March 16, 1952. (3 copies).
Movie “Full House” to be made of 5 O. Henry stories, including “The Clarion Call,” “The Cop and the Anthem,” and “The Last Magi.” Top stars in the cast. John Steinbeck to narrate stories.
133. “Wrong – Brand Writers,” Greensboro Daily News, March 19, 1952.
Wish that modern writers could write like O. Henry.
134. “Negro Who Knew O. Henry Sends Polio Contribution,” Greensboro Daily News, January 20, 1949.
135. “Artist to Present O. Henry Portrait to Museum Here,” Greensboro Daily News, October 16, 1955.
Robert C. Barritt of Pennsylvania gave the portrait.
136. “Ohio Proud of O. Henry Prison Cell,” by Martha Jester, Greensboro Record, October 3, 1955.
Actor Henry Hull said Ohio proud of showing where Porter served time in the State Penitentiary.
137. “Atmosphere of Uncle’s Elm Street Drug Store Favored Many of Will Porter’s Short Stories,” by Cathleen Pike, Greensboro Daily News, June 13, 1954.
Experiences at Drug Store good background material for later short stories.
138. “Museum Gets O. Henry Portrait,” Greensboro Daily News, October 19, 1955.
Portrait given by Robert Carlyle Barritt.
139. “How O. Henry Began His Writing Career,” by Ida Briggs Henderson, The State, February 2, 1935.
Recalled by widow, Sara Porter – his education and writing.
140. “O. Henry, 1862-1910,” Editorial, Greensboro Daily News, September 12, 1951. (2 copies).
Editorial praising him and his work.
141. “Local Resident Recalls Day She Attended O. Henry Rites,” by Sarah P. Britt, Greensboro Record, September 12, 1951. (3 copies).
Mrs. Z. V. Conyers recalls his death and funeral.
142. “Old City Landmark Passes Making Way for Erection of Masonic Temple on Site,” Greensboro Record, August 23, 1927.
Concerns tearing down of O. Henry birthplace and Miss Lina Porter’s school.
143. “Circus Preacher, Visitor to City, Knew O. Henry,” Greensboro Daily News, October 22, 1953.
Rev. “Doc.” Waddell of Mills Brothers circus knew O. Henry.
144. “Citizens Honor Famous Writer: Civic Center Opens Room For O. Henry,” Greensboro Daily News, September 12, 1947.
Concerns opening of O. Henry room at the Museum.
145. “O. Henry Study Club Observes Birthday With Guest Meeting,” Greensboro Daily News, May 12, 1949. (2 copies).
Concerns 25th Anniversary Celebration of O. Henry Study Club.
146. “Famous People of Greensboro,” Greensboro Daily News, November 4, 1951.
Picture of William Sydney Porter.
147. “Heart Attack Is Fatal To Eli M. Oettinger,” Greensboro Daily News, June 10, 1953.
Authority on O. Henry, pioneer collector of O. Henry and named the O. Henry Hotel.
148. “Oriental Seeks Means for Translating O. Henry Works Into Chinese Language,” Greensboro Record, November 26, 1953.
149. “Two Famous Authors Rest in Cemetery at Asheville,” by E. P. Holmes, Greensboro Daily News, October 30, 1949.
Both Thomas Wolfe and William Sidney Porter are buried in Riverside Cemetery.
150. “Space Occupied,” by Shirley Porter.
He wrote about his and William Sydney Porter’s youth and the Little Black Doctor, a riding whip used by Miss Lina Porter when she wanted to discipline the two young boys.
151. “The First Rebellion of O. Henry and Shirley Porter,” by Shirley Porter. (3 copies). He tells of Aunt Lina and her disciplinary measures.
152. “O. Henry’s Drug Store Days and Days in Texas,” by Shirley Porter. (4 copies).
An article about O. Henry’s days in the drug store in Greensboro and his later work and marriage in Texas.
153. “Early Recollections of O. Henry,” by Shirley Porter. (3 copies).
An article about the early days of O. Henry in Greensboro, during the War Between the States.
154. “Generosity of O. Henry,” by Shirley Porter. (3 copies).
As shown in an article by Shirley Porter. O. Henry gave freely and was embarrassed when thanked.
155. Letter to Shirley Porter from Mrs. Annette Sloan Tinsley concerning the printing of some O. Henry postcards, January 7, 1937.
156. “Politicians.” Copy of a poem by Shirley Porter.
157. Letter to Shirley Porter from Mrs. Annette Sloan Tinsley concerning proof of the date of birth of Shirley Worth Porter, 1941.
158. Series of letters from Frank Smethhurst to Mr. S. W. Porter asking for material about O. Henry, 1929.
159. Letters and information to and from Shirley W. Porter concerning O. Henry collections and possible publications, 1941, 1933, 1932, 1928, 1937.
160. Letter to Cousin Caroline from Shirley Worth Porter telling her of the Ayden Lumber Plant, February 1, 1937.
161. Notes by Shirley Porter concerning O. Henry’s departure for Texas with Dr. and Mrs. Hall.
162. Letter to Dr. S. B. Turrentine from C. L. Miller concerning Edgeworth Seminary, January 24, 1949.
163. Letter from “Ken to Dad”; probably written to Shirley Porter about publication of O. Henry’s history, September 20, 1935.
165. Article by Shirley Porter about William Sydney Porter.
166. Accounts of church memberships of Porter family.
167. “O. Henry Club to Give Award for Best Student Short Story,” by Anne Cantrell White, Greensboro Daily News, May 10, 1949. (2 copies).
One subject of club is to keep O. Henry’s name alive. Plan to give award to student at Senior High School.
168. “He Came From Sturdy Ancestry – William Sidney Porter (O. Henry),” by Clifford Frazier, Greensboro Daily News, September 11, 1938.
Concerns his ancestors in Nantucket Island and his work and style.
169. “Historic Site Will be Used by Shoe Firm,” Greensboro Record, June 16, 1954.
Mann’s O. Henry Drug Store Sold.
170. “O. Henry Honored by Scottish Rite; Officers Elected,” Greensboro Daily News, April 29, 1954.
Scottish Rite Spring Reunion voted to name class in honor of O. Henry.
171. “New O. Henry Biography,” Greensboro Record, July 22, 1953.
Review of book by Dale Kramer that is “less flattering” than others.
172. “Rockingham Kinsman of O. Henry Proud of Writer’s Rise to Fame,” by Billie Jacobs Wright, Greensboro Record, May 22, 1952. (2 copies).
Samuel Sidney Porter, cousin of O. Henry, recalls his childhood.
173. “Will Porter Observed Isolation and Loneliness of Carolina Mountain People in Short Stories,” by Cathleen Pike, Greensboro Daily News, December 26, 1954.
Concerns southern settings of his short stories.
174. “Many of O. Henry’s Stories Once Popular Among Russian Readers,” by Earl Dean, Greensboro Daily News, October 15, 1950.
Concerns reasons for his popularity in Russia.
175.a. “O. Henry in Local Setting,” by E. P. Holmes of Sanford, N.C.
O. Henry short story, “A Municipal Report,” supposedly set in Nashville, Tenn. Mr. Holmes contends that it was really about Greensboro.
b. “Prison Days,” by E. P. Holmes of Sanford, N.C.
Concerns the effect of O. Henry’s prison days on his writing.
176. “Of Cornbread Thus Decorated,” by Shirley Porter. (2 copies).
O. Henry as a boy loved cornbread and would go to the house for it to get out of work (humorous).
177. Correspondence between Earley W. Bridges and Mrs. Ernest F. Dow concerning a paper on O. Henry’s ancestry.
178. “Federal Hospital,” by Shirley Porter and “O. Henry’s Chuckles,” by Earley W. Bridges. (3 copies).
The latter is a condensed version of the former. Concerns Ellen and Islam, cook and gardener of O. Henry’s grandmother, and the humorous events that occurred.
179. “Pen Name” by Shirley W. Porter. (5 copies).
Explanation of his choice of the name O. Henry.
180. Article by Shirley W. Porter concerning marriage of O. Henry to Athol Estes and their later life together.
181. Letter from Mrs. Linnie Oates Kuch to Mr. S. W. Porter, May 23, 1929, asking if he is Will Porter’s brother. On the back is Shell Porter’s reply that he is Will’s brother.
182. Letter to Mrs. Thornton, April 20, 1935. (Part missing)
183. Miscellaneous
