The Archives holds two distinct collections related to Tennessee Williams: a collection of personal, manuscript, and household items from his estate and a collection of materials submitted in fulfillment of literary rights agreements. The exhibit features materials from these collections.
As the owner of Tennessee Williams’ literary rights, the University of the South receives posters and playbills documenting Williams’ plays produced around the world. These items help demonstrate the international appeal of Williams’ work. This exhibit features posters from Japan, Germany, and other countries advertising productions such as The Glass Menagerie and A Streetcar Named Desire.
Also on display are items from the Williams’ estate. Manuscript materials and personal items along with artwork and household items from Williams’ Key West house and estate are highlighted in the exhibit. Some of the manuscript materials include his journals, scripts with hand-written notes, and his address book. The household goods range from the personal to the mundane, from a crocheted afghan to a toaster.