About Mary Walker
The collection of 480 photographs and ephemera were made by
Mary Walker between the late 1930s - 50s. Mary made a living with her camera, photographing events, friends and celebrities, mostly focusing on night life. The collection also includes autographed photographs of HC Handy (known as founder of the Blues), Ethel Waters, Sugar Ray Robinson, and others. Prints vary from Photo Booth portraits to 8x10” prints.
The ephemera includes Mary's darkroom and photography notes and living expenses, which in todays dollars translates into a successful business.
After Mary’s death, around 1985, a relative and friend went to visit her NY apartment to claim furniture or other objects. Mary had no children. My friend noticed the pile of photographs in the corner of the apartment and brought them to me. It's time others know about this collection.
Ani Gonzalez-Rivera