Colonel Tom Parker's Framed 1955 Photos from Office

Colonel Tom Parker's Framed Elvis Presley and Andy Griffith 1955 Photographs From Colonel's Office - This framed piece contains early photographs of Elvis Presley and Andy Griffith, and was once hanging in the office of Colonel Tom Parker. This piece was acquired as part of lot B201 in the charity auction of the Colonel Parker and Elvis Presley Estates at the MGM Grand that took place from October 8-10, 1999. The black and white photographs picture Elvis and Andy Griffith performing on stage, and are embossed "Robertson-Fresh Tampa, Florida" in the lower right corners. These photographs were taken during Elvis' performance at the Andy Griffith show which took place at the Fort Homer Hesterly Armory on July 31, 1955. Elvis was only 20 years old and his name appeared at the bottom of the bill. Colonel Parker had recently forged a deal to handle Elvis' booking and long-time planning, and hired Tampa photographer William Robertson and partner Harry Fresh to document the show. One of the photographs taken on that day by Robertson-Fresh eventually became the cover photo for Elvis' first RCA album. It is said that a full scale riot broke out after the show when Elvis announced to the 14,000 strong crowd, "Girls, I'll see you backstage." and fans chased him into the dressing room tearing off his clothes and even his shoes. The framed display measures 35.5"W x 17"L, and still has the previous auction tag attached. The lot will also include copies of the auction catalog page and a letter of provenance.