archives.nypl.org -- A'Becket family diaries and prompt books (original) (raw)

The A'Becket Family Diaries and Prompt Books include handwritten memoirs and daily notations of his life and career from 1844 to 1890. The diaries show the extent of A'Becket's theatrical and musical career giving brief but itemized accounts of his daily activities. The diaries of his son, Thomas A'Becket, Jr. are not truly theatre related, as his career was primarily a musician. These diaries span the years 1862 to 1880. The scripts and prompt books are sometimes annotated and sometimes unmarked and belonged to Thomas A'Becket, Sr. They span his career, and some give information on the theater and year of the production. The collection appears to be a useful research source for detailing the life of a stock actor, writer and musician of the 19th century. Becket includes information of his work schedule and his travel schedule in the circuit theaters. Information as well, regarding his friends and acquaintances can be found in the diaries.

The A'Becket family diaries and prompt books are arranged in three series:

• 1844-1890
  .8 linear feet (2 boxes)
  The diaries of Thomas A'Becket, Sr., span the years 1844 to 1890 and include information on his theatrical career, during the years he worked in Philadelphia as well as the time he spent in out-of-town productions. There is also much information on his personal and family life and records on a daily basis the life of a 19th century acting family.
• 1862-1889
  .6 linear feet (2 boxes)
  The diaries include information on his daily activities and span the years 1862-1885. Included as well are two engagement books which have appointment information. There is also a picture of Thomas A'Becket, Jr. in this series.
• .4 linear feet (1 box)
  This series contains published scripts, many annotated for productions which A'Becket, Sr. was involved in. All the plays are from the late 18th and 19th century.