Author, artist, and visionary, Warder 'Ward' Harrison was widely known for his ties to Hollywood celebrities by way of his extravagant collection of "trash" procured over years of salvaging and saving discarded items from golden era stars. Newspapers, magazines, and television shows covered his story and his successes. Meanwhile, portions of his finds can be found in the archives and collections of places such as Ripley's, the University of Kentucky, and the University of Louisville.
Harrison's passions far surpassed Hollywood. His personal collection reveals a man who had a zest for American history, photographs, ephemera, and more. Wherever possible, we have maintained the integrity of his collections. From rare to eccentric, this selection of items is sure to impress.
Civil War letters, early bank checks, WWI and WWII photographs, African American antique letters, 18th century newspapers, RPPC real photo postcards, historical correspondence, jewelry, including gold and bakelite, 19th century paintings, Louisville and Kentuckiana ephemera, celebrity 'trash' including signed checks and cards, autographed photographs, and original art created by Harrison.
We are honored to have been selected to bring this collection to the public.
