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Bergen, Edgar : Edgar Bergen: Collection of typed letters signed

Collection of seven typed letters signed by Edgar Bergen and four typed letters signed by his secretary, Peggy Purcell. 11 total pages. 1953-54. All on Bergen's stationery. 8 1/2 x 11 inches. Hollywood, California. Written to Ted Middleton of Aberdeen Washington. Bergen (1903-78) was an American comedian and ventriloquist , best known for his work with dummy Charlie McCarthy. Bergen was a frequent performer on radio, starting in the 1930's and later in movies and television. In private life, Bergen was interested in antique steam tractors. He mentioned this in a radio show, attracting the attention of Ted Middleton, one of Bergen's listeners and also a steam enthusiast. Middleton contacted Bergen, apparently writing him about "The Steam Fiend Association" and sending a list of steams engine tractors he had for sale. Bergen decides to join the Association and buys a Case steam tractor. This starts a year-long correspondence with Middleton. Bergen writes in one letter that "as a boy on the farm I lived from thrashing season to thrashing season." He adds that fellow Hollywood figures David Rose and Walt Disney are also steam enthusiasts. Getting the Case tractor from rural Washington to Southern California proves difficult. The four letters from Petty Purcell concern this. At the end of the correspondence, Bergen invites Middleton to spend some time in Southern California with him "to talk steam." He adds that he could assemble a group of 25 steam enthusiasts who would be interested in being a part of such a discussion.. Manuscript. Book Condition: Fine. Binding: No Binding

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