Bonoff Family Papers (Mss. Gr. 216)

The Bonoff Family Papers document the history of several generations of the Bonoff and Wasserman families, owners and operators of theaters and movie houses. Some of the materials deal with Samuel and Rose Wasserman, parents of Barbara Bonoff. The records represent the Wasserman's involvement in movie houses and the production of trade and home demonstration shows, as well as Samuel Wasserman's activities with the Hejaz Grotto masonic organization.

The bulk of the material in the collection relates to the creation, operation, and promotion of the Warwick Musical Theatre. While largely business related, the papers also include personal information on family members, particularly Burton Bonoff's time in the military, and Samuel Wasserman's promotion of trade and home demonstration shows. The variety of materials reflects the wide range of activities and interests of the family members. The collection includes business records, promotional materials and memorabilia from the theaters and home shows as well as promotional material from artists who performed at the venues. Types of records in the collection include family and celebrity photographs, correspondence, scrapbooks, and published material and media.