Historic Collections & Archives
Original letters, signed books, and personal archives documenting the people and publications that shaped Alcoholics Anonymous and the broader recovery movement.
Explore the collections below, each presented with historical context and selected highlights. For acquisition inquiries, contact us to request available portfolios, inventories, and additional photographs.
The Co-Founders Collection
Ten signed First Edition Big Books, published between 1941 and 1954, bringing together Bill Wilson’s inscriptions, co-founder signatures, and associations with Lois Wilson, Anne Smith, and early Fellowship members.
Offered intact as one collection. Available for private acquisition.
In Their Own Hands
Original handwritten letters from Bill Wilson, Dr. Bob Smith, Jim Burwell, and Hank Parkhurst, preserving the voices and personal relationships behind A.A.’s formative years.
Offered intact as one collection. Available for private acquisition.
The William D. Silkworth Collection
Original correspondence, books, photographs, and related material documenting Dr. William D. Silkworth’s life and work—the physician whose understanding of alcoholism helped shape A.A.’s “The Doctor’s Opinion.”
Available for private acquisition.
The Mayflower Collection
A museum-scale archive of Alcoholics Anonymous and recovery history, bringing together manuscripts, founder correspondence, signed books, and early publishing records. Highlights include a Bill Wilson–inscribed 1939 pre-publication Multilith and original Works Publishing material.
Offered intact as one archive. Available for private acquisition.
The Sister Ignatia Collection
Books personally inscribed by Sister Ignatia Gavin, accompanied by devotional material, photographs, and related artifacts documenting her life of service and her work with Dr. Bob Smith.
Available for private acquisition.
The Jim Willis & Early Gamblers Anonymous Archive
Documents, early publications, and historical material connected to Jim Willis and the formative years of Gamblers Anonymous, preserving the history of its co-founder and the developing fellowship.
Offered intact as one archive. Available for private acquisition.
Discuss Acquiring a Collection
Interested in a collection for your personal library, museum, or research institution? Contact us to discuss availability, pricing, and documentation, or request an available portfolio or detailed inventory.
Please include the name of the collection that interests you.