COLLECTION FILMS
In Their Own Hands
A short film opens a window into seven personal letters from four formative figures in A.A. history.
History in their own words
Watch the collection film, then follow an individual letter into the Research Center to examine its images, catalog description and supporting documentation.
Watch: In Their Own Hands
Three-minute museum edition. Music accompanies the film; historical explanations appear on screen. Watch on YouTube.
Continue into the collection
Each card opens the same permanent Research Center record, with letter images and source notes.
Jim Burwell to Clarence & Dorothy Snyder
As the Philadelphia group takes shape, Jim Burwell turns to Clarence Snyder for practical advice about meetings and publicity.
Dr. Bob to Ed Webster
A warm response to The Little Red Book sits alongside thanks for a gift, news of friends and travel plans.
Dr. Bob to Sarah Klein
Dr. Bob thanks Sarah for two books and reflects on understanding, faith and putting spiritual reading into practice.
Hank Parkhurst: two family letters
Two letters signed “Dad” move from affectionate advice about marriage and prayer to urgent family planning and legal concerns.
Bill W. to Nell Wing: Empress of England
Arrival arrangements, messages and an affectionate closing reveal the familiarity behind Bill and Nell’s working correspondence.
Bill W. to Nell Wing: personal access and veneration
Writing about a proposed visit, Bill expresses concern about expectations of personal access and the tendency to elevate him beyond his role.
About the collection
The source is Recovery Collectibles’ nine-page In Their Own Hands Communications Portfolio, dated September 2026. Seven letters are organized into six entries, with Hank Parkhurst’s two family letters kept together.
Typed reading views reproduce the portfolio’s catalog text and selected passages. Complete handwritten transcriptions have not yet been verified. Supporting documents and authentication statements are identified only for the items to which they apply.
This presentation does not imply that the physical artifacts belong to Recovery Speakers. Collection and acquisition inquiries: Recovery Collectibles.