Scope and arrangement
The Gaston Bell papers date from 1886 to 1964 (bulk dates 1960s) and contain scrapbooks and photographs. The collection is not a comprehensive record of Bell's career, but it does highlight some of his early work in theater through programs and clippings. There are also programs from late 19th century theatrical productions, and notes about various actors and actresses. One of the scrapbooks holds cards and letters from Bell's last birthday celebration in 1962. Another scrapbook includes personal photographs, details about his burial arrangements, correspondence about his family's plot in the Canton Cemetery in Massachusetts, and letters of condolences addressed to Bell's close friend Harry Chaffin. The loose photographs in this collection are autographed postcards of early 20th century actors and actresses.
Materials in the collection were assigned catalog numbers before final processing, and those numbers are retained under notes in the container list.
Arrangement
The collection is arranged by format.