Written by Mackenzie Manley, Content Specialist, Downtown Main Library
L.A.-based filmmaker and artist Anita Rosenberg's journey to learn about her great uncle Manuel Rosenberg began at Columbia University's Rare Book and Manuscript Library. The chief artist for Scripps-Howard newspapers from 1918-1931, Manuel also served as the art editor for Cincinnati Post. His work saw him rubbing elbows with the celebrities of the day — from famed escape artist and illusionist Harry Houdini to Singin' in the Rain actress Debbie Reynolds.
What was meant to be a quick look at her uncle's drawings became a decade-long archival project for Anita Rosenberg. Now, Cincinnatians can revisit Manuel's collection of hundreds of original drawings at "The Library Art Room, 1926," a special presentation led by Anita on Saturday, Sept. 26 at the Downtown Main Library from 1 to 3 p.m. (Make sure to reserve your spot.)
"It means the world to me to share my uncle's story with a new generation,” says Anita. “People who lived 100 years ago and were famous and respected in their day have largely been forgotten today. That is why it's important to share those stories and educate people on their contributions. This is history and it is important."
According to a 1931 Cincinnati Enquirer news clipping featured on the website Anita built for the project, Manuel trained at the Art Academy of Cincinnati under Frank Duveneck and Lewis Henry Meakin for three years before studying in New York City, Chicago, and Paris. He was especially known for his autographed sketches of celebrities.
The event is named after an exhibition Manuel held a century ago at the Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Library: Drawings by Celebrities. Anita resurfaces those same movie stars, authors, opera singers, politicians, explorers, and cultural icons that made their way to the Queen City during the roaring 1920s. The art, historic news clippings, and stories plucked from Manuel's massive body of work, make up three volumes titled Uncle Manuel & Me, which Anita will formally donate to CHPL at the presentation.
When asked if the project had made her feel closer to her uncle, Anita gave a resounding, "Yes." Though he died in 1967 when she was 10, she recalls him fondly.
"He had a big bear hug, curly brown hair, wire-rimmed glasses, and a warm smile that always made me feel special," says Anita. "He continues to be with me in spirit."
"My wish is that future generations will have a unique resource available to them for their projects related to the 1920s. Manuel Rosenberg had a front-row seat to history with a unique perspective as the art editor of the Cincinnati Post from 1918-1931," says Anita. "The Uncle Manuel & Me collection ensures his work and life live on."
Want to Become a Family Archivist?
If you, like Anita, have been bitten by the family genealogy bug, take a trip to our Genealogy and Local History Department for research help. You can also explore resources like Ancestry Library Edition, Ohio Historical Newspapers, and Heritage Quest, among others.
Mackenzie Manley is currently reading "Fruit Fly" by Josh Silver.
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