Mock, Everett A. (1915-1996) Papers, 1916-1995

Held by The Filson Historical Society

Creator: Mock, Everett A., 1915-1996

Title: Papers, 1916-1995

Rights: For information regarding literary and copyright interest for these papers, contact the Curator of Special Collections.

Size of Collection: 0.33 cubic feet

Location Number: Mss./A/M688

Scope and Content Note

The Everett Mock papers include correspondence, clippings, and other materials containing information on numerous jazz and blues musicians. Mock was a jazz enthusiast with a renowned private record collection. His correspondence with other jazz experts and musicians reveals rigorous dialog on topics ranging from the textual interpretation of folk music to the merits of specific albums and musicians to the availability of rare recordings. While Mock’s interest in music was national in scope, the collection contains many clippings and printed materials regarding the early development of blues and jazz in Louisville, Kentucky. Photographs from this collection are stored separately in the photo archives. Mock’s extensive private music collection as well as select correspondence with notable musicians was donated to Indiana University.

Biographical Note

Born February 25, 1915, Everett Mock was a lifelong resident of New Albany, Indiana and was distinguished within his community as a jazz expert. In a 1981 letter to his friend Francis Smith, Mock claimed that he originally became interested in jazz because his parents strongly disapproved of it. His interest proved to be genuine as he developed close friendships with jazz greats such as Louis Armstrong and became respected for his collection of rare recordings and extensive knowledge.

Mock attended Indiana University and upon graduating worked as a postal clerk on the Monon Railroad. During World War II, Mock served in the Army and was stationed in the Pacific theater. When Mock returned from the war he resumed his position at the railroad where he stayed until his retirement. Mock died January 18, 1996 while attending a jazz festival in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Folder List

Folder 1: Correspondence, 1924-1984

Folder 2: Correspondence with John W. “Knocky” Parker, 1957-1986

Folder 3: Clippings, 1936-1989

Folder 4: Clippings, undated

Folder 5: Photocopies, 1916-1992

Folder 6: Printed material, 1945-1991

Folder 7: Pamphlets and newsletters, 1947-1995

Folder 8: Ephemera, 1965-1989

Subject Headings

Blues (Music)

Jazz

Mock, Everett A., 1915- 1996

Music — Kentucky — Louisville

Parker, John W., 1918-