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James A. Michener: Oral History Project

Oral History Project

In 2003, the University of Northern Colorado developed an oral history project to document James A. Michener’s life.  Folklorist Georgia Wier interviewed colleagues and friends who were close to the author.  The interviews are available as streaming video and each has an accompanying interview synopsis.  To watch in your current browser window, click the play icon on the video you would like to view.  For an interview synopsis or to access the item in the catalog, click the blue “Transcript and Library Catalog” link below the video player. 

Ann Silverman

Georgia Wier interviews Ann Silverman, close personal friend of James and Mari Michener. 

Edward Piszek

Georgia Wier interviews Edward Piszek, who was a close personal friend and collaborated with Michener on several projects. 

Theresa Shane

Georgia Wier interviews Theresa "Terry" Shane who knew Michener as a child and later as an adult at the George School in Pennsylvania. 

Bill Piszek, Erik Nelson, and Helen Piszek Nelson

Georgia Wier interviews Bill Piszek, Erik Nelson, and Helen Nelson Piszek who recall growing up around Michener. 

Herman Silverman

Georgia Wier interviews Herman Silverman, close personal friend of the Micheners and the author of Michener and Me.

Bruce Katsiff

Georgia Wier interviews Bruce Katsiff, Director of the Michener Art Museum, in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. 

Kendall Landis

Georgia Wier interviews Kendall Landis, vice president of Swarthmore College, who knew Michener well.