Joan Clarke aggregated collection of papers

fonds

1957-2001

Textual Records, Photographs, Nonmusical Sound Recordings, Graphic Materials

9661163

1.6 metres of textual material (11 boxes and 2 folders), includes photographs and 2 sound tape reels

Joan Clarke, 1920-2004, was an Australian writer and researcher who published a number of biographies including her autobiography, All On One Good Dancing Leg (1994). The autobiography details her struggle with polio, which she suffered throughout her life, later developing into post-polio syndrome.

Another biography Clarke wrote, was on the life of Max Herz, a German born doctor who became Australia and New Zealand's first orthopaedic surgeon. Herz is well known for his treatment of people suffering from club foot and polio. Clarke also collaborated with a surgeon, William J. Cumming, on a paper he presented to The Australian Orthopaedic Association relating to Max Herz in 1980.

In 1982, Joan Clarke began working in partnership with Jessie Ellis, to write a biography of Ellis' grandmother, Marie Ellis (nee Kramer), a soprano singer. Shortly before her death, Jessie Ellis printed the book before receiving permission from Joan Clarke. The book was subsequently recalled and remaining copies were destroyed.

Reference:
Compiled from the collection

COLLECTION 1
Joan Clarke papers, 1957, 1968-1984, including manuscripts and drafts of books

COLLECTION 2
Bookplate of Max Herz and sketch of a cat by Dal Stivens, 1972 / collected by Mrs Joan Clarke

COLLECTION 3
All on One Good Dancing Leg (A Childhood Autobiography) / Joan Clarke

COLLECTION 4
Unpublished first draft of an autobiography ghost written for Mrs Millie Phillips by Joan Clarke, ca. 1979

COLLECTION 5
Joan Clarke further papers, 1905-2001

COLLECTION 6
Joan Clarke further papers, 1950s-1990s

COLLECTION 7
Joan Clarke further papers, 1943-2000