Rubber-faced (and -limbed) dancer/singer/comedian has become so widely identified as the Scarecrow in The Wizard of Oz that the role has almost obliterated the rest of his considerable career. Fabulous ALS, one page both sides, 7.25 x 10.5, personal letterhead, November 9, 1982. Wonderful letter reminiscing about the Wizard of Oz. In part, “I am very proud to have been associated with what has turned out to be a great American Classic, The Wizard Of Oz. The more one sees this remarkable film, the more one realizes that it is its basic message that will keep it alive and well forever. It says! - There is no place like home, that everyone has a heart, a brain, courage and that all we have to do is use these God-given gifts to attain some peace of mind and success in this tired old world. Of course when one receives the love of children of this world what more could one ask for. The letters I receive are so heartwarming that I feel I am the most fortunate person in the world. Bert Lahr, Jack Haley and myself were friends even before the ‘Making of Oz’ and we suffered through Oz together. We ate together - kidded each other and put up with the torture of the ‘make-ups’ the costumes and the working in unbearable heat. But we were troopers and not only survived but were as good friends or even better friends when it was all over.” In fine condition. PSA/DNA COA and R&R COA.
