This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 5/11/2001.
The signature of the famed "Brown Bomber" is part of this particularly attractive package of Joe Louis memorabilia dating back to the early 1950s. Louis was in retirement after his 11-year
reign as heavyweight champ when a Movietone filmed documentary of his career was released. The film, "Roar of the Crowd," brought out droves of fans to theaters who treated it like the premiere of a Hollywood movie. That excitement can be gleaned in this promotional flyer for the film, which refers to "The one and only Joe Louis, his rise – his fall – his comeback." Apparently theater owners used the occasion to entertain the audiences with additional live acts, for the flyer tells of "A double barreled program shown with extra feature and comedy." The excellent-condition flyer is mounted under glass in a 16 ½" x 21" black-edged frame along with a classic black and white photograph of Louis posed in his boxing stance. Louis signed the photo in black pen. The signature is somewhat faded but eminently readable, grading a 7.