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University of Texas at Austin

Sybille Bedford:

A Preliminary Inventory of the Addition to Her Papers in the Manuscript Collection at the Harry Ransom Center

Creator: Bedford, Sybille, 1911-2006
Title: Sybille Bedford, Addition to Her Papers
Dates: 1911-2006 (bulk 1970s-2006)
Extent: 4 boxes (1.68 linear feet)
Abstract: This addition to the papers of author Sybille Bedford contains materials that were in Bedford's possession at the time of her death in 2006. The papers are arranged in three series: I. Works, 1978-2005; II. Correspondence, 1979-2006; III. Personal and Career-Related, 1940s-2006.
Call Number: Manuscript Collection MS-00299
Language: English
Access: Open for research


Administrative Information


Acquisition: Purchase, 2007 (Reg. no. 16496)
Processed by: Liz Murray and Hope Donovan Rider, 2007
Repository:

Harry Ransom Center, The University of Texas at Austin

Scope and Contents


This addition to the papers of author Sybille Bedford contains materials that were in Bedford's possession at the time of her death in 2006. The papers are arranged in three series: I. Works, 1978-2005; II. Correspondence, 1979-2006; III. Personal and Career-Related, 1940s-2006.
Series I. contains several drafts of articles, a small amount of material relating to the publication of Bedford's final book, Quicksands: A Memoir, and a eulogy for Amalia Elguera.
The correspondence in Series II. includes letters from Bedford's publishers and agents, as well as friends and acquaintances such as Bill and Chloe Blackburn, John Byrne, Elizabeth Jane Howard, Francis Henry King, Richard and Mary Ollard, and Ann Patchett. There are also two postcards from Bedford's close friend Allanah Harper.
The bulk of Series III. is comprised of the extensive wine books kept by Bedford and containing notes regarding wine tastings and purchases. Career-related materials consist of royalty statements, contracts, and reviews for various Bedford works. One file includes Bedford's birth certificate, marriage certificate providing Bedford with English citizenship in 1935, and correspondence from Prime Minister Thatcher's office regarding the OBE awarded in 1981.

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