Collection of nine items related to Elvis, his girlfriend Anita Wood, and their relationship with the family of his friend Sgt. William A. Norwood, consisting of four vintage photos, three ALSs by Wood, a Christmas card, and a pre-printed thank you card. Photos include: a color glossy 3.5 x 3.5 candid photo of Elvis and Anita in a warm embrace; a glossy 5.5 x 3.5 candid of Elvis in his Fort Hood barracks in May 1958; two glossy 3.75 x 2.75 candids, one showing Anita Wood at the Norwood residence in July 1958 and the other of Presley’s car; and one other of two unidentified people. Wood’s letters total seven pages on five sheets, dated 1958–1959, and are addressed to “Mrs. Olly Norwood.” One dates to ten days after the death of Elvis’s mother, August 24, 1958, in part: “I am coming down there to visit Elvis & stay with his grandmother…I was so sorry about Mrs. Presley. I went home for the funeral—Elvis & his dad were so upset. I only hope & pray they can go on and face life as best they can. They are so miserable & lonesome.” Also included is a card expressing thanks for condolences bearing pre-printed signatures of Elvis and Vernon Presley, and a Christmas card signed by Anita. In overall fine condition. Accompanied by two original mailing envelopes. Sgt. Norwood was given the assignment of training Presley upon his arrival at Fort Hood, and the two soon became friends. Homesick, Elvis spent much of his time at the Norwood residence, often with his girlfriend Anita Wood. Anita became friends with Olly Norwood, the sergeant’s wife, and when Anita would travel the two ladies frequently corresponded. As a whole, this collection offers a rare, fascinating look into Presley’s private life.
