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-