A Curated Archive of Recovery History
Exceptional archives, assembled collections, and historically significant material from the history of Alcoholics Anonymous and recovery.
Preserving Important Recovery History
Recovery Collectibles is privileged to offer a select group of important collections representing people, events, publications, and artifacts from the history of Alcoholics Anonymous and the broader recovery movement. Each is presented as a distinct body of material for collectors, institutions, and researchers.
The Co-Founders Collection
Ten signed First Edition Big Books spanning 1941 through 1954, featuring inscriptions and signatures connected to Bill Wilson, Dr. Bob Smith, Anne Smith, and Lois Wilson. Together, they form an extraordinary assembled collection documenting the earliest years of Alcoholics Anonymous publishing and fellowship history.
In Their Own Hands
A remarkable collection of original handwritten correspondence from major figures in early Alcoholics Anonymous history, including Bill Wilson, Dr. Bob Smith, Jim Burwell, and Hank Parkhurst. Together, these letters preserve the voices, relationships, and firsthand history of the Fellowship’s formative years.
The William D. Silkworth Collection
A focused collection centered on Dr. William D. Silkworth, the physician whose understanding of alcoholism helped shape the earliest development of Alcoholics Anonymous. It brings together books, correspondence, photographs, and related material documenting Silkworth’s life, work, and lasting influence on A.A. history.
The Mayflower Collection
A museum-scale archive of Alcoholics Anonymous and recovery history, bringing together foundational manuscripts, pioneer correspondence, association copies, early publications, photographs, ephemera, and artifacts. Preserved as one extraordinary body of material, the collection spans decades of recovery history.
The Sister Ignatia Collection
A deeply personal collection connected to Sister Ignatia Gavin, whose work with Dr. Bob Smith helped establish one of the earliest hospital-based approaches to caring for alcoholics. The collection brings together inscribed books, devotional material, photographs, and personal artifacts associated with her life and service.
Have an Important Collection?
Recovery Collectibles works with collectors, families, estates, and institutions to help preserve and place significant material from the history of Alcoholics Anonymous and recovery. If you have an important collection, archive, or group of historically meaningful items, we welcome the opportunity to learn more.