Scrapbook, 1940-1958

The Dixie Blandy Papers span the years 1940-1973. The bulk of the material is comprised of newsclippings, photographs and advertisements, loose and in a scrapbook, and report the major events of his career, his motivation for flagpole sitting, and the promotional aspects of his employment. The loose items are arranged chronologically by type of document, excepting the scrapbook, which is maintained in tact.

The scrapbook contains news articles, promotional... ads for contests and appearances, and programs, sketchily documenting the years between 1940 and 1958. Individual newsclippings span the later years, 1964-1973. These materials contain brief information concerning exhibitions, mishaps, fans, marriage proposals, contests and his thoughts on life. In addition, the collection includes still publicity photos, and a typical performance contact and accompanying rider. Promotional brochures of the 1950s and 1960s can be contrasted to demonstrate the evolution in approach to attracting sponsors and fans.

The reason for the gap in the scrapbook collecting of newsclippings prior to 1958 and the loose clippings after 1964 is not apparent, although the later new articles appear to recall the intervening period to a minimal extent. In total, the collection begins to document a colorful Daytonian and provides insights into an entertainment attraction, its promotion and appeal, spanning and reflection this aspect of American culture through four decades.