Typed manuscript of the first eight chapters of Dempsey, co-written with Barbara Piatelli Dempsey, 97 pages, 8.5 x 11. Each page is signed at the bottom in blue felt tip by Dempsey approving the copy on each page. Manuscript begins, “I have started this book many many times and each time either I didn’t know where to start or something came up which made it impossible. I have had such a tumultuous and exciting life that writing it down in decent order is a major feat. Since I am a simple man I’ll begin where I think it is best—at the beginning.” A few of the pages are also notated in blue ballpoint in an unknown hand (possibly Piatelli’s), making small changes to the text. In fine condition, with text of a couple pages light, but still legible.
Completed in 1977 with the help of his step-daughter Barbara, Dempsey tells the story of the poor Colorado coal miner’s rise to fame in his own words. Along with a highly personal account of his life as a movie star (offering a low opinion of his own ability and unfortunate high-pitched voice), and his brushes with the law, he offers a unique view of the some of the most dramatic moments of his career: the day he won the championship fight against Willard, the day Firpo knocked him out of the ring, and the ‘long count’ bout against Tunney. This manuscript, noticeably different from the published version, offers a remarkable look into the champion fighter’s life, and with Dempsey signing nearly a hundred times, is an incredible rarity. Pre-certified Steve Grad/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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