Discovering History Through Art: Anita Rosenberg’s Journey
Written by Mackenzie Manley, Content Specialist, Downtown Main Library
L.A.-based filmmaker and artist Anita Rosenberg’s journey to learn about her great uncle, Manuel Rosenberg, began at Columbia University’s Rare Book and Manuscript Library. Manuel was the chief artist for Scripps-Howard newspapers from 1917 to 1930 and also served as the art editor for the Cincinnati Post. His impressive portfolio included interactions with celebrities of that era, from escape artist Harry Houdini to Singin’ in the Rain actress Debbie Reynolds.
What was meant to be a brief look at her uncle’s drawings has evolved into a decade-long archival project for Anita. Cincinnatians can now experience Manuel’s collection of hundreds of original drawings at The Library Art Room, 1926, a special presentation led by Anita on Saturday, Sept. 26 at the Downtown Main Library from 1 to 3 p.m. (Make sure to reserve your spot.)
Anita shares, “It means the world to me to share my uncle’s story with a new generation. People who lived 100 years ago and were famous and respected in their day have largely been forgotten. It’s important to resurface those stories and educate people on their contributions. This is history.”
According to a 1931 Cincinnati Enquirer news clipping featured on the website that Anita built for the project, Manuel trained at the Art Academy of Cincinnati under Frank Duveneck and Lewis Henry Meakin for three years before studying in New York City, Chicago, and Paris. He became known for his autographed sketches of celebrities.
The event is named after an exhibition Manuel held a century ago at the Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Library: Drawings by Celebrities. Anita is reviving the legacies of movie stars, authors, opera singers, politicians, and cultural icons who visited the Queen City during the roaring 1920s. The art, historical news clippings, and stories from Manuel’s extensive body of work comprise three volumes titled Uncle Manuel & Me, which Anita will formally donate to the Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library at the presentation.
When asked whether the project made her feel closer to her uncle, Anita responded affirmatively. Although he passed away in 1967 when she was just 10 years old, she fondly recalls, “He had a big bear hug, curly brown hair, wire-rimmed glasses, and a warm smile that always made me feel special. He continues to be with me in spirit.”
“My wish is that future generations will have a unique resource available for their projects related to the 1920s. Manuel Rosenberg witnessed history as the art editor of the Cincinnati Post from 1918 to 1931. The Uncle Manuel & Me collection ensures his work and life live on.”
Want to Become a Family Archivist?
If you’re interested in genealogy like Anita, visit our Genealogy and Local History Department for research assistance. Explore resources such as Ancestry Library Edition, Ohio Historical Newspapers, and Heritage Quest.
Currently, Mackenzie Manley is reading [Fruit Fly](https://cincinnatilibrary.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S170C4024036) by Josh Silver.
