larry hoffman <lhoffma2@ix.netcom.com> Date: Fri, 13 Dec 96
Mr. Hoffman is writer/producer of the 4-CD, 100-page Smithsonian collection, Mean Old World: The Blues From 1940-1994 and a frequent writer for Living Blues Magazine.
Dear Chancellor Broski,
It has come to my attention that there is a possibility for certain remaining portions of the famed Maxwell Street district to be incorporated into the University of Illinois' plans for commercial redevelopment.
As a writer and historian of the blues I emplore you to try your hardest to keep as much as possible of this district whole, as an historic monument to the many bluesmen---and musicians of all types---who typified the growth of indigenous American folk musics in this country.
Memphis' Beale Street had to be largely reconstructed after the fact---leaving much to be desired in the current site---making it more than somewhat artificial. You can avoid such shortsightedness now by leaving the Maxwell Street district whole, and thereby assuring theauthenticity of the area for years to come.
As the sole writer/producer of the 4-CD, 100-page Smithsonian collection, Mean Old World: The Blues From 1940-1994, I must tell you that I visited the area on many Sunday mornings. It was truly an inspiration to imagine the world-class artists who left so many wonderful musical imprints on those hallowed blues grounds. I would like to feel that these feelings will be felt by researchers and blues lovers of all ilks forever.
Thank you for your time. I hope you will consider my comments and know that I speak for so many blues devotees of the past, present, and --hopefully--the future.
Yours,
Lawrence Hoffman
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