May, Robert Lewis, 1905-1976
Dates
- Existence: 1905 - 1976
Biography
Robert Lewis May (1905-1976.) Dartmouth College class of 1926. In 1939, May, an advertising editor for Montgomery Ward department stores, authored the popular children's Christmas story "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" for his employer. The story was a popular success and in 1947 Montgomery Ward relinquished copyright of Rudolph to May. In 1951 May became president of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Enterprises in order to manage Rudolph's marketing. In 1958 May returned to Montgomery Ward as a editorial director for their catalogues retiring in 1970.
Found in 1 Collection or Record:
Robert L. May collection
Robert Lewis May (1905-1976), advertising editor. Dartmouth College Class of 1926. Contains holograph manuscripts for May's children's books, including "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer; illustrations and mockups for the book and May's scrapbook related to the publication of "Rudolph," as well as original metal printing plates of "Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer" for the Montgomery Ward catalogue.