Tropicon 6 (1987) - Leslie Fish in Concert FANAC Fan History 2021-01-30 | Leslie Fish was the special filk guest at Tropicon 6, held in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in 1987. This recording captures (almost all of) her concert at the convention, and includes 12 songs. Of these, Leslie wrote eleven, including one song which is a posthumous collaboration with Rudyard Kipling. For decades, Leslie has been a towering presence in the filk world, with some of her songs achieving true iconic status. Her strong libertarian streak is on full display in this concert, as is her enormous skill with words and practiced performance. Because Tropicon didn’t officially sponsor filk guests, the local community raised money to bring in one filk guest for each Tropicon. Concerts like this were held as a benefit for those who had donated. For more information on Fan History and Tropicon, see FANAC.org and Fancyclopedia.org . If you liked this video, please subscribe.In this concert, Leslie sings:Hope Eyrie (partial) (0:09)Grain Train (3:45)Black Powder and Alcohol (7:15)Guardian (12:22)New Sins for Old (16:20)Blue Bread Mold (18:55)Skybound Blues (23:05)The Old Issue (Rudyard Kipling/Leslie Fish) (27:45)The Ecological Engineering Corps (31:40)The Same Old Game (33:50)Bring It Down (39:00)Ship of Stone (Don Simpson) (42:40) Thanks to Leslie Fish for her permission and to Eli Goldberg for his help. You can find more Leslie Fish music on her YouTube channel – youtube.com/channel/UCMcc62K9ZvEYt1v3CD-5zxg
Gordon Eklund, interviewed by Andrew Hooper - May 2026 FANAC FanHistory Interview FANAC Fan History 2026-05-21 | Gordon Eklund found science fiction at 12, fandom at 15 and made his first professional sale less than 10 years later. In this charming interview, fan historian Andy Hooper, himself a long time Seattle fan, elicits stories of both the Nebula-award winning author and of the young man who stepped into Seattle's legendary fan group, "The Nameless" before he could drive. This is a "bonus" interview, as Gordon was to have participated in a panel on the history of Seattle fandom (November 2025), but was prevented by technical difficulties. As a result, we are fortunate to have this dedicated interview, and hear about Gordon's experiences as a young, and not so young fan, and as an accomplished professional. FYI: during this interview, there were some momentary network disruptions and the recording has been edited to remove them. Gordon Eklund discovered fandom through the ads in the back of the science fiction magazines. That led to fanzines, including "Cry of the Nameless" and soon to his first club meeting of the Nameless Ones in 1960, in the room above Bill Austin's much loved bookstore. In this recording, Gordon tells his origin story, tales of the Nameless Ones, and of Seacon 1961, his first convention and first Worldcon. Anecdotes include the pro who wanted to show everyone how he could light matches with his feet, the hospitality of Robert Heinlein and how Harlan shot craps with the bellhops to make his carfare to Hollywood. You'll hear about Gordon's evolution to award-winning author, and how the Nebula nomination for his first published story led to the sale of his first novel, as well as how he came to collaborate with E.E. "Doc" Smith. This entertaining interview runs the gamut from serious discussions about Gordon's work to fannish topics such as which APAs are more boring. It's a window on the fandom of the early 60s, as well as what came after. Finally, it's great fun and strongly recommended. For more fan history, go to fanac.org and https://fancyclopedia.org. If you enjoy this video, please subscribe to our channel.
Alex Mui and the Graphic History of Fandom, with interviewer Edie Stern (Part 1 of 2) FANAC Fan History 2026-03-17 | FANAC History Zoom: March 2026: The history of fandom has been written more than once, but never like this. As a professional artist, Alex Mui brings a unique perspective to documenting convention history and the history of fandom, making it both interesting and entertaining for a generation that didn't grow up on fanzines. In this 30 minute segment, Alex talks about how a self-described “90s kid” became interested in science fiction, fandoms, conventions and the arcane topic of early fan history. Here we learn Alex’s origin story – growing up in a Star Wars household, joining HOPSFA (the John Hopkins Science Fiction Association), and becoming involved with multiple fandoms. Rather than become an active fan in any one of them, Alex became interested in the commonality across fandoms, and developed an evolutionary biology inspired approach to the history of fandom and conventions.Identifying traditional science fiction fandom as the root of all the fandoms that followed, Alex has developed an intriguing “Family Tree of Conventions”. Part 2 continues with a lively and detailed discussion of the Family Tree, and fan history across multiple fandoms. For more on Alex Mui's projects, go to conhistory.com/timeline and conhistory.com/comic. For more fan history, go to fanac.org and https://fancyclopedia.org. If you enjoy this video, please subscribe to our channel.
Alex Mui and the Graphic History of Fandom, with interviewer Edie Stern (Part 2 of 2) FANAC Fan History 2026-03-17 | FANAC History Zoom: March 2026: The history of fandom has been written more than once, but never like this. As a professional artist, Alex Mui brings a unique perspective to documenting convention history and the history of fandom, making it both interesting and entertaining for a generation that didn't grow up on fanzines. This segment begins with a focus on the Family Tree of Conventions. The conversation becomes very interactive with lively questions and comments from the audience discussed in realtime with the Convention Family Tree visible to underscore the points. What are the break points in the family tree? Why are they located where they are? What is the Tulsa incident? What is the common DNA between traditional fandom, Star Trek and Furry conventions? It’s enthusiastic and fun, and well worth watching. After Q&A, Alex continues with a focus on the anthropomorphic graphic history of fandom, future plans and how fans can help. For more on Alex Mui's projects, go to conhistory.com/timeline and conhistory.com/comic. For more fan history, go to fanac.org and https://fancyclopedia.org. If you enjoy this video, please subscribe to our channel.
Corflu 43 (February 2026) – Robert Silverberg, in conversation with Edie Stern FANAC Fan History 2026-03-09 | Robert Silverberg, award winning author and science fiction icon, has given many interviews, but none like this. In this entertaining and very charming discussion, conducted via zoom for a full Corflu audience, Bob talks about his fannish career, from his early days in the Queens Science Fiction League, to his entry in FAPA, and how he went from “seething with the desire to be a professional SF writer” to writing over a thousand books and shorter works. In this recording, you’ll find wonderful anecdotes about Bob’s fannish life from his first convention and introduction to Harlan Ellison, to his friendships with larger than life figures Bill Rotsler and Bob Tucker, and many stories of Lee Hoffman, Dean Grennell, Randall Garrett and others. You’ll hear stories of conventions, of editors and the back and forth of Q&A with a room full of fanzine fans.Rather than further tease the contents, I will strongly recommend you just listen to this interview. Bob is an outstanding speaker, and this recording is the well-told story of a life in science fiction by a man who lived the dream of every young SF fan: to go from big name fan to professional writer, to earn all the awards, and yet to remain himself, and stay part of the community. I should add: to have brilliant friends, wonderful colleagues and a massive brag shelf. After you listen to this recording, fans will realize just how much of a fan Bob Silverberg still is. His post interview comment to me - “Nice to be still in touch with fandom 78 years after I saw my first fanzine. I never really left.”Many thanks to Corflu 43 and Bob Silverberg for permission to put this online, and to Karen Haber for IT support.
Minicon 12 (1977) – Midwest Side Story FANAC Fan History 2026-02-25 | Midwest Side Story is a rare recording of that entertaining subgenre of fannish endeavors – the fannish musical. First performed on April 9, 1977 at Minicon in Minneapolis, the recording was preserved in the Scott Imes Video archive, and kept safe for many years by Scott Imes, Jeff Schalles and Corwin Brust. Midwest Side Story is set in an alternate universe where the 1973 Worldcon is held in Minneapolis. It takes place in an alternate Minneapolis where fanzine fans and convention fans behave like rival gangs The musical is a love story between a fanzine femmefan and a male convention fan. If you want more, you’ll have to watch the show. It’s funny, it’s thoughtful and it has a great ending. Just remember this was written about 50 years ago, and has the expected cultural attitudes of the time. The recording is captioned for your convenience.The script as well as some photos from its first public performance on April 9, 1977 is available from Minn-StF at mnstf.org. The musical was a team effort - it was written by Susan Ryan, Denny Lien, Jerry Stearns, Ruth Berman, Mark Digre, David Emerson, Ken Fletcher, Dick Tatge, EssJay, Karen Johnson, Larry Nichols, Renée Valois, and Reed Waller, some of whom appear in the production. Many members of Minn-StF took part in the production.Many thanks to Geri Sullivan and the Video Archeology team for providing this recording, especially Guy Spiller who digitized it and David Dyer-Bennet who provided the editing, and captions along with being assistant director in 1977. This recording is provided with the permission of Margie Lessinger. For more fan history, visit FANAC.org and Fancyclopedia.org, and subscribe to our channel.
Gary Mason – When Fandoms Met in Sydney, w/interviewers Perry Middlemiss and Leigh Edmonds FANAC Fan History 2026-02-22 | FANAC FanHistory Zoom session, February 2026Gary Mason, a mainstay of Sydney science fiction in the 60s, found his way to fandom through an unusual route for the time: the comics. His introduction came courtesy of comics great, Roy Thomas, who put him in touch with other Sydney fans. In this interesting session on Sydney and Adelaide science fiction and comics fandom, we learn about the spark struck by the almost accidental visit to Australia by Ed Hamilton and Leigh Brackett, the selective censorship of episodes of Star Trek, and the sad fate of Ron Graham’s Vision of Tomorrow. Gary talks about his life in and out of fandom, being Sydney Science Fiction Foundation newsletter editor, CAPA-alpha central mailer, and ANZAPA OE, and describes how his considerable fanzine collection unexpectedly ended up at Monash University. You’ll hear a little about Australia’s BNFs of the period, including “the most charming and erudite person” amongst them. This is an entertaining anecdotal account of 60 years of fan activity (CAPA-alpha! ANZAPA OBO Editor!) from a comics fan, convention runner and inaugural member of ANZAPA, who still laments the 1960s customs officials confiscating his Creepy and Eerie copies.For more fan history, go to fanac.org and https://fancyclopedia.org. If you enjoy this video, please subscribe to our channel.
Astrid Anderson Bear, and the Family that Built Worlds, w/ interviewer Joe Siclari (Pt 2 of 2) FANAC Fan History 2026-01-14 | In part 2 of this interview, we continue to explore the live and times of Astrid Anderson Bear, daughter of famed science fiction writer Poul Anderson & legendary fan Karen Anderson, wife of noted science fiction writer Greg Bear, and an admirable fan in her own right. Astrid grew up deep in the fannish aether. In Part 2 of the interview, there are family photos, and more stories of family and friends. Here Astrid recounts anecdotes that illuminate her mother’s personality, from Karen’s recreation of the meal in E.R. Eddison’s “A Fish Dinner in Memison” (with Fritz Leiber as one of the guests at the table) to her professional writing and costuming innovations. You’ll hear about the time Astrid had to get orange spray paint out of her hair, how the “Bat and the Bitten” came about, and what happened to the yearling deer found dead by the side of the road. Astrid gives her first-hand account of the events at the St. Louiscon masquerade that led to a damaged movie screen, and the resulting Harlan Ellison controversy that ensued. Through an intriguing Q&A session, we learn how Poul saves the world (in fiction), the origin of the Hoka tales and Poul’s friendship with Gordon Dickson, Greg’s relationship to the Science Fiction Museum, and Astrid’s own writing. Join us and hear about Astrid’s extraordinary fannish journey. For more fan history, go to fanac.org and https://fancyclopedia.org. If you enjoy this video, please subscribe to our channel.
Astrid Anderson Bear, and the Family that Built Worlds, w/ interviewer Joe Siclari (Pt 1 of 2) FANAC Fan History 2026-01-13 | FANAC FanHistory Zoom session, January 2026If ever anyone was born into fandom, it was Astrid Anderson Bear. As the child of Poul & Karen Anderson, two of fandom and indeed, science fiction's best, Astrid grew up with fans and pros, conventions and fan activity as her "normal". It never ended: she married Greg Bear, a fan, a pro, an artist and writer all-in-one, and stayed true to her roots. In part 1, we learn what it was like to grow up in one of the best known families in science fiction. Astrid attended her first Worldcon at the age of 6 weeks, was present at the very first meeting of the Society of Creative Anachronism, and was a central figure in the first masquerade costume to come with a plot and pre-recorded soundtrack (at the 1969 Worldcon in St. Louis).Unsurprisingly, Astrid became a fan. Her family stories are full of familiar names - Jack Vance, Alva Rogers, Reginald Bretnor, Tony Boucher, Diana Paxson, and evocative anecdotes like that of the Bootleg Bookseller. Astrid pubbed her ish, was active in costuming and was part of the SFCon70 committee. In the early 80s, she married Greg Bear, himself a founding father of ComicCon. From the invention of the word “filk”, to fanzines and costuming, to the social fannish whirl of the Bay Area in the last part of the 20th century, and the beginning of the SCA, Astrid Anderson Bear and her family have been at the center of a pivotal time in the history of fandom. The interview continues with part 2.For more fan history, go to fanac.org and https://fancyclopedia.org. If you enjoy this video, please subscribe to our channel.
Seattle Fandom (Pt 2 of 2): John D. Berry, Andy Hooper, Suzanne Tompkins, and Jerry Kaufman (m) FANAC Fan History 2025-11-24 | This part 2 of 2 concludes the FANAC FanHistory session, November 2025, on Seattle’s fannish history. Our panelists, John D. Berry, Andy Hooper, Suzanne Tompkins and Jerry Kaufman continue with more: more on the Pacific Northwest Review of Books and the Vanguard Group, legendary parties and pyrotechnic displays. There’s the requisite Harlan Ellison story, stories of other BNFs, and a variety of eccentric fannish pastimes. Throughout the session, it’s clear that in Seattle, fanzines, conventions, and social connections are the glue that holds the community together. It’s also clear why Seattle has been a wonderful place to be a fan.We end with Q&A, the Great Houses of Seattle Fandom and Art Widner’s “Art Car”. Gordon Eklund, scheduled to participate, was unable to do so because of last minute technical issues. For more fan history, go to fanac.org and https://fancyclopedia.org. If you enjoy this video, please subscribe to our channel.
Seattle Fandom (Pt 1 of 2): John D. Berry, Andy Hooper, Suzanne Tompkins, and Jerry Kaufman (m) FANAC Fan History 2025-11-24 | This FANAC FanHistory session, November 2025, focuses on Seattle’s fannish history. A prolific and influential fannish center since the 1950s, Seattle has remained a hotbed of fandom ever since. In this recording, John D. Berry, Andy Hooper, Suzanne Tompkins and Jerry Kaufman bring their decades of Seattle experience to not only convey the significance of the region, but to bring to life what living in Seattle fandom has been like. Unfortunately, Gordon Eklund, scheduled to participate, was unable to do so because of last minute technical issues.Our panelists begin at the beginning, with the start of Seattle fandom in 1949, at Bill Austin’s bookstore, a location that now strangely falls within the footprint of the Seattle Convention Center, site of the 2025 World Science Fiction Convention. You’ll learn about Mr. Tank, about Clarion West, the purpose of Potlatch, and the admirable integration of the fan and professional communities, to the benefit of both. From a visit by one of the first traveling ghiants, the Irish John Berry, to affectionate stories of SAPS collations, Blotto Otto, and the Pacific Northwest Review of Books, the enduring energy and vibrant tapestry of Seattle fandom come into focus.For more fan history, go to fanac.org and https://fancyclopedia.org. If you enjoy this video, please subscribe to our channel.
Gannetfandom (Pt 2 of 2): Harry Bell, Rob Jackson, Ian Maule, Kevin Williams, Sandra Bond (m) FANAC Fan History 2025-10-27 | In Part 2 of 2, Gannets Harry Bell, Rob Jackson, Ian Maule and Kevin Williams, led by moderator Sandra Bond, continue their walk through the chronology of Gannet events and publications of the 70s and 80s. In this part of the panel, the discussion moves to Silicon, the Gannets’ take on a relaxacon, NESFig, the Gannetscrapbook (variously pronounced depending on whether the word break comes after the “s” or before it), and the great porkpie race. Silicon came about in 1976 as a reaction to the Blackpool Faancon. The Gannets thought Faancon dire, with “nothing happening inside or outside”. Silicon had some programming, and games for all, from British Bulldog to stuffing balloons into where they were never intended to go. You’ll hear about the impressively costumed Terry Hughes visiting the Roman Wall, the bespoke party where Rob and Coral met, and the origins of the Seacon banner. You’ll even learn where Balti was invented. Decades later, these stories start to convey some of what it was like to be Gannet fandom.For Kevin’s short video on the History of Gannet Fandom see youtu.be/MF7kzAjEAt4. For more fan history, go to fanac.org and https://fancyclopedia.org. If you enjoyed this video, please subscribe to our channel.
Gannetfandom (Pt 1 of 2): Harry Bell, Rob Jackson, Ian Maule, Kevin Williams, Sandra Bond (m) FANAC Fan History 2025-10-27 | Started in the 1970s, in the northeastern part of the UK, the Gannets made their mark with active and distinctive fanac in everything from publishing to running conventions. Who better than the Gannets themselves to walk us through the people and events of the period, and their impact on fandom. Ably led by moderator Sandra Bond, Gannets Harry Bell, Rob Jackson, Ian Maule and Kevin Williams take us through both the chronology of Gannet events and publications of the 70s, through entertaining anecdotes that bring them to life. In this part 1 of 2 (October 2025), we get their “origin” stories including the Gannetfather Ian Williams (Goblin), and how the group got its name. We hear stories about the silly mascot stage of UK fandom, a trip to Manchester in a transit van filled with deck chairs, and a magnificent 5 week long SF Festival in Sunderland. Harry Bell tells us why he joined the British Science Fiction Association (BSFA), and Rob tells of the coincidence that brought him and Ian together. You’ll learn the significance of “Did you have to piss in the ink?” and why Tynecon, the Gannet-led Eastercon in 1974, was so remarkable, and a 5 bed convention. There’s the origin of Bob Shaw’s serious scientific talks, and much more. Over 50 years later, the camaraderie and continued friendship of the Gannets still shines through.For Kevin’s short video on the History of Gannet Fandom see youtu.be/MF7kzAjEAt4. For Rob's "Tyne Capsule" see taff.org.uk/ebooks.php?x=TyneCapsule
History of Gannet Fandom (2015) - Kevin Williams FANAC Fan History 2025-07-26 | Gannet Fandom refers to a group of NE UK fans which began in the 1970s with the North East Fan group. This half hour jokey pan-and-scan video was created for Tynecon III: The Corflu (March 2015) by Kevin Williams. It covers a bit more than the "history" of Gannet fandom - there are many photos of other British fans, and a decided lack of seriousness. Many thanks to Kevin Williams for providing it. If you liked this video, subscribe to our channel. For more fan history, see FANAC.org and Fancyclopedia.org.
Margaret Middleton – A Shaper of Modern Filk (Part 2 of 2), interviewed by Edie Stern FANAC Fan History 2025-02-27 | FANAC FanHistory Zoom, February 2025: Named to the Filk Hall of Fame in 1996, and a long time officer of the Filk Foundation, Margaret Middleton has been instrumental in the shaping of modern filk, as well as a mainstay of Arkansas fandom. She’s published multiple fanzines, including Kantele, and was a founder of the first specialized filk convention, Filkcon 1. In Part 2 of this 2 part recording, the conversation ranges from Margaret’s taxonomy of filk, to tips for busking at the Farmer’s Market, and to the effect of the internet on filking and the filk community. We also learn about Margaret-when-she’s not filking, including her involvement in the Civil Air Patrol, quilting and her professional responsibilities for “measuring piles of dirt and holes in the ground.” It's a wide-ranging conversation, and ends with barbershop quartets, the Ballad of Eskimo Nell (discussed – not sung), the relationship of quilts to filk conventions and audience Q&A. For those interested in the history of filk, this 2 part interview is highly recommended.For more fan history, go to fanac.org and https://fancyclopedia.org. If you enjoy this video, please subscribe to our channel.
Margaret Middleton – A Shaper of Modern Filk (Part 1 of 2), interviewed by Edie Stern FANAC Fan History 2025-02-25 | FANAC History Zoom: February 2025: Named to the Filk Hall of Fame in 1996, and a long time officer of the Filk Foundation, Margaret Middleton has been instrumental in the shaping of modern filk, as well as a mainstay of Arkansas fandom. She’s published multiple fanzines, including Kantele, and was a founder of the first specialized filk convention, Filkcon 1. In Part 1 of this 2 part recording, we learn about her introduction to conventions and fandom, including a delightful story of the Icon elevator that may have changed her life. Margaret starts at the beginning, with her entry to fandom and how she started writing filk, and continues to the four bearded guys and how she came to pub her ish. A traveling fan with many convention stories, this Part 1 includes the origin story of Roc*Con in the grand fannish tradition, as well as tales of Big Mac (MidAmericon, 1976 Worldcon), and reminiscences of some of the filkers of the time (incuding the “Great Broads of the Galaxy”). The talk moves on to filkzines, specialized filk conventions, and filksing styles. It’s great fun, especially for those of us that remember filking in those days. Full Disclosure: the interviewer (me) is one of those people.For more fan history, go to fanac.org and https://fancyclopedia.org. If you enjoy this video, please subscribe to our channel.
University Fan Archives (Pt 3 of 3), with Phoenix Alexander, Peter Balestrieri & Susan Graham FANAC Fan History 2025-01-23 | Overview: In this January 2025 FANAC Fanhistory Zoom, moderator Joe Siclari explores the details behind the creation and current state of some of the best known university archives of science fiction fan material. Phoenix Alexander is the Jay Kay and Doris Klein Science Fiction Librarian at the University of California, Riverside; Peter Balestrieri is the Curator of the Science Fiction and Popular Culture collection at the University of Iowa; and Susan Graham is the Special Collections Librarian at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. Each of these Universities have received sizable collections from prominent fans of the period. Part 3 - Q&A: Questions posed (and answered) in this segment range from physical security of collections, especially considering their growth in value, to the state of collections at other universities, the difficulties of establishing permissions from estates, and the intricacies of inter-university cataloguing. Topping it off is a brief show-and-tell of unique items from the University of Iowa collection (ranging from Clark Ashton Smith to Star Trek).Bonus: Listen to the recording and find out which of our archivists is a former rock star!
University Fan Archives (Pt 2 of 3), with Phoenix Alexander, Peter Balestrieri & Susan Graham FANAC Fan History 2025-01-22 | In this January 2025 FANAC Fanhistory Zoom, moderator Joe Siclari explores the details behind the creation and current state of some of the best known university archives of science fiction fan material. Phoenix Alexander is the Jay Kay and Doris Klein Science Fiction Librarian at the University of California, Riverside; Peter Balestrieri is the Curator of the Science Fiction and Popular Culture collection at the University of Iowa; and Susan Graham is the Special Collections Librarian at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. Each of these Universities have received sizable collections from prominent fans of the period. Part 2: In this part 2, the archivists discuss how their collections have been used for traditional research, in teaching (“the planets and science fiction”), in developing expository exhibits and much more. As mimeos become popular in maker culture, there is also new interest in the mechanics of fanzine publishing. There’s commentary on techniques for successfully navigating such massive collections, recommendations for preserving fanzines, and the difficulty of preserving fanzines printed on unusual materials (such as bologna). For fans interested in donating materials to universities, there is much that is pertinent in the conversation. Many fans pass away without making provision for their collection, and so Pete says “Our only real competition is the dumpster”. In part 3, we move on to Q&A with the attendees.
University Fan Archives (Pt 1 of 3), with Phoenix Alexander, Peter Balestrieri & Susan Graham FANAC Fan History 2025-01-21 | In this January 2025 FANAC Fanhistory Zoom, moderator Joe Siclari explores the details behind the creation and current state of some of the best known university archives of science fiction fan material. Phoenix Alexander is the Jay Kay and Doris Klein Science Fiction Librarian at the University of California, Riverside; Peter Balestrieri is the Curator of the Science Fiction and Popular Culture collection at the University of Iowa; and Susan Graham is the Special Collections Librarian at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. Each of these Universities have received sizable collections from prominent fans of the period. In this part 1, we get a sense of the scope of the various collections (including how many linear feet they have of uncatalogued materials), along with a view of which well-known fan collections were donated to the universities. There are “origin” stories for these collections, how they came to collect fan materials, and their policies on public access. Fans want access to these materials, and the participants speak about what is available and how it can be accessed (with a brief excursion into copyright concerns). What do archivists want? Our panelists also discuss their “grail” items, and other, perhaps more likely additions they would like to see in their collections. Inevitably, the talk turns to budgets. One nugget from University of Iowa’s origin story - Pete Balestrieri credits Rich Lynch for the suggestion that University of Iowa digitize its fanzines. The University of Iowa now has almost 800 fanzines digitally available. The discussion continues in part 2.
Robin Johnson, Traveling Fan from Oz (Pt 2 of 2), with Perry Middlemiss and Leigh Edmonds FANAC Fan History 2024-10-31 | FANAC History Zoom: October 2024: This enjoyable session continues with more of the fannish history of Robin Johnson, not only one of the best known Australian fans, but also one of the best loved. In Part 2 of this 2 part session, Robin continues with more tales of Aussiecon (1975), the first Australian worldcon. As chairman of Aussiecon, Robin shares his memories including the massive crowding caused by injudicious placement of the only 3 computer arcade games around, an unfortunate and expensive attempt to publicize a Hugo novel candidate, and a sadly lost slide carousel. In addition to Aussiecon, you’ll hear about the Tasmanian convention, Thylacon, named after the extinct marsupial, the thylacine, better known as the Tasmanian wolf. In 2010, Robin was Fan Guest of Honor at Aussiecon 4, the 4th Australian World Science Fiction Convention. After those tales, and a few traveler’s tales too, the session concludes with a slideshow of Australian fan photographs and a little Q&A. Many thanks to master interviewer and Aussiecon 3 chair, Perry Middlemiss, and to Leigh Edmonds, who served as Robin's auxiliary memory in this session.For more fan history, go to fanac.org and https://fancyclopedia.org. If you enjoyed this video, please subscribe to our channel.
Robin Johnson, Traveling Fan from Oz (Pt 1 of 2), with Perry Middlemiss and Leigh Edmonds FANAC Fan History 2024-10-28 | FANAC History Zoom: October 2024: This enjoyable session explores the fannish history of Robin Johnson, not only one of the best known Australian fans, but also one of the best loved. Beginning with his birth in Hobart to his chairmanship of Australia's first World Science Fiction Conventions (1975), in Part 1 of this 2 part session, Robin regales us with stories of his fannish career. From his early days in fandom ("crouched around the feet of John Campbell while he smoked and pontificated"), to other well known Australian fans ("living with John Bangsund is a very difficult job"), and the enormity of bidding for an Australian Worldcon ("no one else in Australia had even been to a Worldcon at the time", Robin makes this history come alive. There are tales of Antifan, and stories of Harlan Ellison, Ursula Le Guin, Susan Wood and Mike Glicksohn, the Magic Pudding Club and how the Aussiecon Art show was saved by judicious negotiation. It's great fun, and interviewer Perry Middlemiss does a masterful job of teasing out the details. With the help of Leigh Edmonds, serving as Robin's auxiliary memory, the session is a delightful tour through the making of the first Australian Worldcon. For more fan history, go to fanac.org and https://fancyclopedia.org. If you enjoyed this video, please subscribe to our channel.
The Secret Origins of Plokta (Pt 2 of 2), with Steve Davies, Sue Mason, Alison Scott, and Mike Scott FANAC Fan History 2024-09-28 | The stories continue in part 2 of this FANAC FanHistory zoom. As entertaining as the first half of the conversation, in part 2, the Plokta crew talk about more fannish activities, some of which having nothing to do with fanzines. You’ll hear about the Iron Faned, the undisputed fascination of an inflatable cow, and many other convention stories. The Cabal has been active in convention organization and operations, from locals to Worldcons, from chairing to beer. Here they tell us about running Fan Lounge, Program and even teaching a hotel about Real Ale. Together, they have produced the newsletters for almost every non-US Worldcon since 2005, including some long-distance follow-the-sun editing of the Aussiecon newsletter from London. They have accomplished a lot, with collaboration and joy. In his part of a Hugo acceptance speech, Steve Davies passed on the call to action – “All of you out there in the audience – you can do this too.” Unspoken, but clearly communicated, is that it’s all been great fun.For more fan history, go to fanac.org and https://fancyclopedia.org. If you enjoyed this video, please subscribe to our channel.
The Secret Origins of Plokta (Pt 1 of 2), with Steve Davies, Sue Mason, Alison Scott, and Mike Scott FANAC Fan History 2024-09-24 | FANAC FanHistory Zoom, September 2024: This fannish group (aka the Plokta Cabal) burst on the scene in May 1996 with the fanzine Plokta, which went on to receive two Best Fanzine Hugos, 2 Nova Awards for Best Fanzine, and Hugo nominations each year from 1999 to 2008. They are energetic, quirky and very, very funny. They are writers, artists, con runners, Worldcon bidders and fan fund winners. In part 1 (of 2), Steve Davies, Sue Mason, Alison Scott and Mike Scott, recount how they came into fandom and found each other. They tell entertaining stories of their fannish lives, from convention newsletters to the celebrated Plokta to the glories of providing a unique in-joke badge to each member of a convention. You'll learn what a SMURF is, hear strong opinions about staples, and find out just what voodoo board spam can be. Plokta was one of the first web fanzines, and came together differently than most other fanzines. The group dynamics and interactions that created it are on full display in this recording. It's great fun to watch, and it's very, very clear that it was great fun to live.For more fan history, go to fanac.org and https://fancyclopedia.org. If you enjoyed this video, please subscribe to our channel.
FANAC History Zoom: The Women Fen Don’t See(Pt 2) w/Claire Brialey, Kate Heffner & Leah Zeldes Smith FANAC Fan History 2024-03-18 | Women did not magically appear in fandom with the advent of Star Trek, but have been part of science fiction fandom since the earliest days. They're faneds, and convention chairs, writers and artists, club fans and costumers. Sometimes, they're all of the above. In this part 2 of the session (Mar 2024), our panelists Claire Brialey, Kate Heffner and Leah Zeldes Smith continue to talk about why early female fans have received less credit than they deserved, or been overlooked entirely, and describe the contributions of a number of them. Women discussed here include Ina Shorrock, Bobbie Gray, and Ethel Lindsay. There’s more about Femizine, the impact that early female fans can have on younger generations today, and whether women fans today will experience the same sorts of erasure. At about 32 minutes in, Q&A from the audience begins, with the difficulty of researching women fans, especially those that change their names multiple times, and anecdotes of Nan Gerding, Lynette Mills, Fuzzy Pink Niven, and Noreen Shaw. Maggie Thompson contributes a wonderful anecdote about her mother SF author Betsy Curtis and Tony Boucher. The recording concludes with a welcome discussion of how women have been treated in fandom in recent years. For more fan history, go to fanac.org and https://fancyclopedia.org. If you enjoyed this video, please subscribe to our channel.
FANAC History Zoom: The Women Fen Don’t See(Pt 1) w/Claire Brialey, Kate Heffner & Leah Zeldes Smith FANAC Fan History 2024-03-18 | Women did not magically appear in fandom with the advent of Star Trek, but have been part of science fiction fandom since the earliest days. They're faneds, and convention chairs, writers and artists, club fans and costumers. Sometimes, they're all of the above. Our impressive panelists (see bios on the bottom) Claire Brialey, Kate Heffner and Leah Zeldes Smith talk about why early female fans have received less credit than they deserved, or been overlooked entirely, and describe the contributions of a number of them. In this recording (Mar 2024, part 1 of 2), our panelists talk about how this research began, and why women that were cranking the mimeos, writing fanzine articles and going to conventions were not even regarded as fans. Early fan historians didn’t correct this impression, reflecting the attitudes of society and ignoring women’s contributions to fandom, especially married women. In this recording, you’ll learn about what fans did say about women in the community, “the radical hoax of Lee Hoffman”, and Miss Science Fiction 1949 (and the Fake Geek Girl response that ensued). Women discussed in this part 1 include Jean Bogart, Pam Bulmer, Daphne Buckmaster, Marion Eadie, Helen Finn, Nancy Kemp, Trudy Kuslan, Lois Miles, Frances Swisher, and Jane Tucker. There’s a lot of information, a little hero worship and a dive into those hard-to-research women whose fanac was not primarily in fanzines. The discussion continues in Part 2. For more fan history, go to fanac.org and https://fancyclopedia.org. If you enjoyed this video, please subscribe to our channel.Bios: Claire Brialey - Claire encountered fandom in her early teens, in the mid-'80s, after having read SF for five or six years. She’s a fanzine fan and co-editor of Banana Wings, as well as having won the 2011 Best Fan Writer Hugo. She’s a former President of ANZAPA and a conrunner (up to and including the Worldcon level). She’s worked on clubs, fan funds, and awards administration. She is one of the Guests of Honor of the 2024 Worldcon in Glasgow. And she still enjoys reading and watching SF.Kate Heffner - Kate Heffner (she/they) is a PhD researcher at the University of Kent England in the Department of History and an adjunct faculty member in the School of Library and Information Science at the University of Iowa. She is completing her dissertation entitled 'A Fanzine of Her Own: Femme Fans in the Post-War Era.' She is the recipient of the 2022 Peter Nicholls prize for best essay and a former judge for the Arthur C Clarke Award. For the last several years, she has also been adding to Fancyclopedia.org.Leah Zeldes Smith – A retired journalist, Leah has been an actifan for more than 50 years, since she was a young teenager. She is a fanzine fan, and her zine STET was nominated for the Best Fanzine Hugo 3 times (1993, 1994, 2001). She’s a DUFF winner (93). She’s been involved with APAs, clubs and convention running. Leah’s involvement in documenting fanhistory dates back several decades. She has been a mainstay of Fancyclopedia, and has made thousands of updates to the site. Recently she’s pulled together a list of Fandom Firsts.
Tropicon 8 (1989) Part 3 of 3 Filk with Julia Ecklar, Orions Belt & Linda Melnick FANAC Fan History 2024-02-24 | Julia Ecklar was the special filk guest at Tropicon 8, held in Dania, Florida, in 1989. This recording captures the third part of an open filk at the convention, and includes 8 songs (of which Julia sings four, with one incomplete) and one poem. The performers on this recording in order of appearance: Julia Ecklar, Chuck Phillips, Dina Pearlman, Francine Mullen, Doug Wu, and Linda Melnick. The video includes much of the conversation between songs, the laughter and the occasional disagreement of a 1980s convention filk session. This video includes several songs by Orion's Belt, which consisted of Dina Pearlman, Francine Mullen and Doug Wu. Tropicon was a small convention, and you will see some of the author guests in the filk. That's Tropicon 8 GoH Lynn Abbey sitting next to C.J. Cherryh for example, and Joe Green sitting back against the wall. Note that the last song is incomplete - the recording chops off in the middle. Many thanks to Eli Goldberg for sound editing on this recording and for the details in the song listing. Video thumbnail art by Gail Bennett for the Tropicon 8 Program Book. For more information on Fan History and Tropicon, see FANAC.org and Fancyclopedia.org .1. Julia Ecklar: Crimson & Crystal (Cynthia McQuillin) (0:18) 2. Chuck Phillips: The Smoke Off (Shel Silverstein) (4:22) 3. Orion's Belt: The Sun is Also a Warrior (Leslie Fish) (9:32) 4. Julia Ecklar: Starship Unity (Anne Passovoy/Trad) (15:57) 5. Julia Ecklar: Witnesses’ Waltz (Leslie Fish) (19:41) 6. Orion’s Belt: Child of Mine (Dina Pearlman) (25:23) 7. Francine Mullen: Time Winds Tavern (Teri Lee/Boris Fomin) (29:08) 8. Linda Melnick: Legends (Dennis Drew) (33:05) 9. Julia Ecklar: Threes [INCOMPLETE] (Mercedes Lackey/Leslie Fish) (38:44)
Wrong Turns on the Wallaby Track:Australian SF Fandom 1960-75, Pt2 w/Leigh Edmonds, Perry Middlemiss FANAC Fan History 2024-02-20 | Part 2 continues the story of Australian fan history. Historian Leigh Edmonds and Perry Middlemiss begin with a discussion of the cultural environment (and censorship) in Australia of the period, the raid on John Foyster’s home and the intersection of real politics with fandom. Especially interesting is the conversation about the campaign to bring the Worldcon to Australia, from changes needed to the WSFS constitution, to the origins of DUFF, and to the bidding publicity Australian fans courted with Anti-Fan (staring Paul Stevens as Anti-Fan). You’ll hear about the beginnings of the Australian SF writing community, Ursula Le Guin’s connection with the Aussiecon Writer’s Workshop, and the emerging uniquely Australian convention tradition. The discussion wraps up with anecdotes about the Worldcon itself (including the Tucker fund), and its sizable impact on local fandom. Finally, there’s Q&A with the audience.The zoom session is great fun and well worth watching. Leigh Edmonds is an Australian historian, and a very long-term science fiction fan. His history of science fiction fandom in Australia, Proud and Lonely; a history of science fiction fandom in Australia 1936-1975 part 1, will be published in 2024 by Norstrilia Press. Perry Middlemiss is a fanwriter, editor and podcaster as well as a former Worldcon chair. Many thanks also to Robin Johnson for providing tech support for Leigh. For more fan history, go to fanac.org and fancyclopedia.org . If you enjoyed this video, please subscribe to our channel.
Wrong Turns on the Wallaby Track:Australian SF Fandom 1960-75 Pt1 w/Leigh Edmonds, Perry Middlemiss FANAC Fan History 2024-02-19 | Once again historian Leigh Edmonds and Perry Middlemiss take us to the heart of Australian fan history. This February 2024 zoom session begins with the events of 1960, and the origins of modern Australian fandom in Melbourne. Illustrated with photos and publications, Leigh tells the story of early fannish meetings, of Somerset Place, and of the competing visions of Australian fandom, from sercon to fannish. In this part 1, he covers how Science Fiction Review got started, the seminal influence of John Foyster, John Bangsund and Lee Harding, and the reason the Ditmar Awards are so named. (He also tells you what they are not named.) There’s the first APA in Australia, why it was started and what it became, the importance of comics fans in Australian fan history and Gelaticon. And Leigh conveys the reason why fans were so intent on getting together - “In this group, when you happen to say something about science fiction, people don’t look at you like you’re crazy.” The zoom session is great fun and well worth watching. Leigh Edmonds is an Australian historian, and a very long-term science fiction fan. His history of science fiction fandom in Australia, "Proud and Lonely; a history of science fiction fandom in Australia 1936-1975 part 1", will be published in 2024 by Norstrilia Press. Perry Middlemiss is a fanwriter, editor and podcaster as well as a former Worldcon chair.Many thanks also to Robin Johnson for providing tech support for Leigh. For more fan history, go to fanac.org and fancyclopedia.org . If you enjoyed this video, please subscribe to our channel.
Joseph L. Green – An Interview conducted by Edie Stern FANAC Fan History 2024-01-23 | Joe Green’s interest in science fiction began in the 1940s, before he knew there was even a name for this kind of literature. His introduction to science fiction fandom came in the early 1950s, and first published fiction in the 1960s. Add to that his long career in the military and civilian space programs, and you have a trajectory that is the envy of a many a science fiction reader. In this fascinating interview, Joe Green talks about his life and career, and his views on science fiction and fandom after more than 70 years in the SF community. With a professional career spanning more than 60 years, (his last published work was in 2023), in this discussion Joe starts with his introduction to fandom, and his early fanzine contributions, his first professional sales and the struggle to balance fandom, professional writing and a growing family. With a decades-long career revolving around space, he tells anecdotes ranging from the Cuban missile crisis of the 60s to one of his most important accomplishments - editor and principal writer of the NASA report on the Challenger disaster. Here he talks about that difficult but necessary work. Starting in the days of the manned Apollo launches, the Greens hosted spectacular and now legendary launch parties. Joe couldn’t help but share his joy at one of the finest achievements of mankind. In this session, there are great anecdotes about well-known writers and fans, including Poul Anderson, Sam Moskowitz, Arthur C. Clarke and A.E. Van Vogt, and Joe’s unorthodox advice about getting entrée to NASA launches. It’s a delight to hear, and makes you wish you had been there.One story we didn’t get to was what happened when Joe Green heard filk music for the first time. Joe was delighted, especially with the space-oriented pieces, and not too long after he heard the “Minus Ten and Counting” recording, one of those songs was played as the wake-up music for the astronauts in space.Many thanks to Joe’s daughter, Rose-Marie Lillian for her technical support, enabling Joe to participate in the Zoom. For more fan history, go to FANAC.org and Fancyclopedia.org. If you enjoyed this video, please subscribe to our channel.
APAs Everywhere FanHistory Zoom (Pt 2 of 2): Fred Lerner, Christina Lake, Amy Thomson & Tom Whitmore FANAC Fan History 2023-12-11 | Since the first FAPA mailing in 1937, Amateur Press Associations (APAs) have been a part of fannish life. APAs are everywhere – our panelists include a former Worldcon chair, a professional science fiction writer, a TAFF and multi-FAAn award winner, and a member of the Kipling Society Council. They are all long-time fans.In this wonderful FanHistory Zoom panel, our speakers, all long-time participants (in multiple different APAs), speak about their experiences with APA life. During this 2-part recording, you’ll hear their personal fannish origin stories and APA experiences, along with a wealth of fascinating commentary on the nature and purpose of APAs. From “fanac in a corner” to “intentional community”, this video provides thoughtful, insightful discussion on why APAs have been a mainstay of science fiction fandom. Of particular interest are the discussions of “standing waves” of cultural issues that run through our APAs and the ways that science fiction fandom has dealt with cultural challenges. Fandom had notable failures (and successes) dealing with social issues long before the general culture dealt with them. Of course, it’s not all social commentary. You’ll hear the story of APAs used in divorce proceedings, APAs which may have been created to bedevil particular individuals, and the APA which didn’t live up to its banner of “the 13 nastiest bastards in fandom”. You’ll hear why APAs thrive, even in this era of instant online gratification. Other topics: privacy issues, digital preservation of APAs, a soft toy APA, APAs you wouldn’t join, Langdon charts, and of course, audience Q&A.There’s a list of APAs at fancyclopedia.org/Category:APA. If your science fiction APA is not there, please write to fancyclopedia@fanac.org and tell us about it.For more fan history, go to fanac.org and https://fancyclopedia.org. If you enjoyed this video, please subscribe to our channel.
APAs Everywhere FanHistory Zoom (Pt 1 of 2): Fred Lerner, Christina Lake, Amy Thomson & Tom Whitmore FANAC Fan History 2023-12-11 | Since the first FAPA mailing in 1937, Amateur Press Associations (APAs) have been a part of fannish life. APAs are everywhere – our panelists include a former Worldcon chair, a professional science fiction writer, a TAFF and multi-FAAn award winner, and a member of the Kipling Society Council. They are all long-time fans.In this wonderful FanHistory Zoom panel, our speakers, all long-time participants (in multiple different APAs), speak about their experiences with APA life. During this 2-part recording, you’ll hear their personal fannish origin stories and APA experiences, along with a wealth of fascinating commentary on the nature and purpose of APAs. From “fanac in a corner” to “intentional community”, this video provides thoughtful, insightful discussion on why APAs have been a mainstay of science fiction fandom. Of particular interest are the discussions of “standing waves” of cultural issues that run through our APAs and the ways that science fiction fandom has dealt with cultural challenges. Fandom had notable failures (and successes) dealing with social issues long before the general culture dealt with them. Of course, it’s not all social commentary. You’ll hear the story of APAs used in divorce proceedings, APAs which may have been created to bedevil particular individuals, and the APA which didn’t live up to its banner of “the 13 nastiest bastards in fandom”. You’ll learn why APAs thrive, even in this era of instant online gratification. Other topics: privacy issues, digital preservation of APAs, a soft toy APA, APAs you wouldn’t join, Langdon charts, and of course, audience Q&A.There’s a list of APAs at fancyclopedia.org/Category:APA. If your science fiction APA is not there, please write to fancyclopedia@fanac.org and tell us about it.For more fan history, go to fanac.org and https://fancyclopedia.org. If you enjoyed this video, please subscribe to our channel
Frankenstein...[a not so gory version] Delta Science Fiction Film Group (1963) FANAC Fan History 2023-11-12 | This 1963 fannish production of “Frankenstein … [a not so gory version]” from the Delta SF Film Group, starts with a panorama across a mad scientist’s lab featuring “Entrails of Aldiss” and “bheer”. It’s an entertaining and complete story in less than 4 minutes, starring British fans of the day. You’ll be (un)amazed at the special effects, the pathos of the story and its shocking ending. It's good fun, and Delta group went on to produce many more short films.Bill Burns, who provided this and other Delta Films tells us “The individual films date from 1963 to 1970, and were made on 8mm silent film to which a magnetic stripe was later added and the sound dubbed on. They were then shown mercilessly at club meetings and Eastercons, and suffered accordingly.” For more about the Delta SF Film Group, see the Fancyclopedia article and see the text of Bill’s talk at Manunicon (2016 Eastercon) at efanzines.com/Alien/indexd.htm Many thanks to Bill Burns for providing the video, and the list of actors and crew that worked on the Delta Group films. For more information on Fan History, see FANAC.org and Fancyclopedia.org .
Evolution of Art(ists) (Pt 2 of 2): Grant Canfield, Tim Kirk, Jim Shull, and Dan Steffan FANAC Fan History 2023-10-18 | In part 2 of this 2-part session, the fan art discussion continues, with more on professional careers as well. The conversation ranges from Tolkien’s house to Harlan Ellison's house, from “The Last Dangerous Visions” to Bill Gibson, from Harlan Ellison stories to BNFs that had an impact. There are more Rotsler stories too. You’ll hear about silent jam sessions, “Esoteric Fan Art Tales”, and the impact that conventions had on artists who worked in isolation. A real treat is the slideshow of samples of our panelists’ art, with their live comments on what each piece represents. Q&A starts about 45 minutes into the video, with comments as well as questions, including Ted White’s discussion of the impact of Mondrian’s work on modern magazine design. Lest you believe that fanzines are a thing of the past, the video wraps up with a plug for an upcoming paper fanzine by faned Geri Sullivan. For more fan history, go to fanac.org and https://fancyclopedia.org. If you enjoyed this video, please subscribe to our channel.
Evolution of Art(ists) (Pt 1 of 2): Grant Canfield, Tim Kirk, Jim Shull, and Dan Steffan FANAC Fan History 2023-10-17 | Fillos, illos, cartoons and the disturbing depictions of many a fannish nightmare have long made fanzines and convention publications more interesting. Multi-talented fans have run the gamut from writing to editing to fan artist. This distinguished group of award-winning artists represent the cream of 60s/70s fan artists, uniquely qualified to have this discussion. In part 1 of this 2-part session, you’ll hear their “origin stories”, their influences, how they found science fiction fandom, and what they perceive as the unique benefits of fandom to young artists. You’ll find out why artists should avoid hecto, and torturous tales of justifying margins by hand. There are intriguing insights into adjusting one’s art to the reproduction medium, and how fandom helped people along, especially towards professional careers. Larger than life figures make their appearance, including several stories of Bill Rotsler. There’s plenty more, including their views on Carl Barks, why Dan started “Lizard Inn”, Jim’s take on the slippery slope to having a fanzine too big to staple without an industrial stapler, Tim on his deep desire to tell stories, and Grant’s opinion of “Starling”. The fun continues in Part 2.For more fan history, go to fanac.org and https://fancyclopedia.org. If you enjoyed this video, please subscribe to our channel.
Boston in the 60s (Pt 2 of 2): Tony Lewis, Leslie Turek and Mike Ward, moderated by Mark Olson FANAC Fan History 2023-09-28 | Part 2 of the panel on Boston science fandom in the 1960s, continues with the true story of how the Boston in ’67 Worldcon bid began, and the surprising origin of “Locus”, now “the magazine of the science fiction, fantasy, and horror field”. There are anecdotes of the late, lamented House of Roy, why NESFANs are expected to receive club permission to marry, and the origin of the Skylark Award. You’ll even find out about the Silent and Silly Committees of NESFA, the pun fine, and what is likely the only retelling of Goldilocks to be written in Fortran. Also pastrami ice cream. Many in the audience could easily have been panelists. The last half of the recording covers the Q&A, eliciting stories on the Boston “Save Star Trek” demonstration, Baskin Robbins expeditions and the Boston penchant for rules, rules, rules. Panelists Tony Lewis, Leslie Turek and Mike Ward are uniquely suited to discuss the 60s. Tony joined the MIT Science Fiction Society (MITSFS) in 1957, served as "Onseck" and "Librarian", is a founder of NESFA, and chaired the first Boston Worldcon - Noreascon 1 (1971). Leslie Turek discovered fandom in the mid 60s, is a founding member of NESFA, chair of Boskone 6 (1969), editor of several MITSFS fanzines, and chair of the second Boston Worldcon - Noreascon 2 (1980). Mike Ward, MITSFS "Skinner", founding member of NESFA, and editor of several MITSFS fanzines, was involved with the Boston in 67 bid and the MITSFS index. (And moderator Mark Olson chaired the third Boston Worldcon, Noreascon 3 (1989).) For more fan history, go to fanac.org and https://fancyclopedia.org. If you enjoyed this video, please subscribe to our channel.
Boston in the 60s (Pt 1 of 2): Tony Lewis, Leslie Turek and Mike Ward, moderated by Mark Olson FANAC Fan History 2023-09-27 | Boston in the 60s was a generative hotbed of fannish activities, with long lasting consequences. The first modern Boskone was held in 1965 by the Boston Science Fiction Society, as part of its bidding strategy for a Boston Worldcon. NESFA began in 1967, and the first Boston Worldcon was held in 1971. Panelists Tony Lewis, Leslie Turek and Mike Ward are uniquely suited to discuss that period. Tony joined the MIT Science Fiction Society (MITSFS) in 1957, served as "Onseck" and "Librarian", is a founder of NESFA, and chaired the first Boston Worldcon - Noreascon 1 (1971). Leslie Turek discovered fandom in the mid 60s, is a founding member of NESFA, chair of Boskone 6 (1969), editor of several MITSFS fanzines, and chair of the second Boston Worldcon - Noreascon 2 (1980). Mike Ward, MITSFS "Skinner", founding member of NESFA, and editor of several MITSFS fanzines, was involved with the Boston in 67 bid and the MITSFS index. (And moderator Mark Olson chaired the third Boston Worldcon, Noreascon 3 (1989).)In Part 1 of this discussion, you'll feel what fandom was like in those days, and how our panelists came to be part of it. There are anecdotes of the surprising way NESFA was funded, MIT's Building 9 (where the department of Magic is housed) and the day that Hugo Gernsback came to MITSFS. Isaac Asimov comes into it, as does the "The MIT Science Fiction Society's Index to the S-F Magazines". There are reminiscences of the big name fans of the area and the era, and the creative ways that Boston's intrepid fans helped create a community that is still vibrant today. For more fan history, go to fanac.org and https://fancyclopedia.org. If you enjoyed this video, please subscribe to our channel.
Minicon 23 (1988) – “Barbie’s Inferno” by Jeanne Gomoll, Fanzine Reading FANAC Fan History 2023-08-17 | Minicon 23 was held April 1-3, 1988. On Saturday afternoon, David Emerson hosted a program of fanzine readings, including Jeanne Gomoll’s reading of her hysterical short piece, “Barbie’s Inferno”. This 18 minute audio recording, enhanced with images, is a delightful visit both to that program in 1988, and to the subject matter – Jeanne Gomoll’s childhood experiences with Barbie. Jeanne is an outstanding writer, as well as an excellent reader. This short recording provides an empathetic glimpse into what many fans have experienced -- what it’s like to grow up in a family where you and your parents have very different ideas of who you should be. Plus you learn about waxers. Originally published in Harlot (edited by Anne-Laurie Logan and Avedon Carol, 1983), a newly revised version of “Barbie’s Inferno” is contained in Pretending, the first volume of Jeanne’s two volume memoir, Pretending and Becoming. © 2023 (to be released).Thanks to Geri Sullivan for recording, preserving, digitizing and providing this program. For more Fan History, subscribe to this channel and visit fanac.org and https://fancyclopedia.org.
Castle of Terrors – Delta Science Fiction Film Group (1964) FANAC Fan History 2023-07-16 | This fannish production from Harry Nadler and the Delta SF Film Group gives us a slapstick parody of horror movies, replete with well known British fans of the day. There are angry villagers, damsels in distress, and scary monsters, as well as less well-known horror tropes like food fights in this 20 minute amateur extravaganza. In “Castle of Terrors” you can feel just how much fun Delta Group was having (and get a clear sense of their love for slapstick).Bill Burns, who provided this and other Delta Films tells us “The individual films date from 1963 to 1970, and were made on 8mm silent film to which a magnetic stripe was later added and the sound dubbed on. They were then shown mercilessly at club meetings and Eastercons, and suffered accordingly.” For more about the Delta SF Film Group, see the Fancyclopedia article and see the text of Bill’s talk at Manunicon (2016 Eastercon) at efanzines.com/Alien/indexd.htmMany thanks to Bill Burns for providing the video, and the list of actors and crew that worked on the Delta Group films. For more information on Fan History, see FANAC.org and Fancyclopedia.org .
Conversation 2023 - The Third Row w/ John Coxon, Niall Harrison, Emily January & Abigail Nussbaum FANAC Fan History 2023-05-18 | At the 2023 Eastercon (Conversation), Guest of Honor Niall Harrison, and fellow “Third Row” fans John Coxon, Emily January and Abigail Nussbaum sat down for a discussion on the future of fandom (circa 2004). Moderated by Meg MacDonald, the panel hilariously tells the story of Third Row Fandom, named and brought into being accidentally by Greg Pickersgill during a “Future of Fandom” panel at the 2004 Eastercon. Themselves dubbed “the future of fandom” by Greg, the fans seated in the third row at that panel have made good on the title, pulling others into their orbit and having an outsized influence on science fiction and science fiction fandom over the last 20 years. Illustrated with powerpoint slides to map out their impact, this fascinating panel tells the story of a cohort of young fans maturing into movers and shakers in the field, as writers, reviewers, editors, award judges and convention organizers.Many thanks to Conversation 2023 for providing this recording, and particularly to Alison Scott for her assistance.For more information on Fan History, see FANAC.org and Fancyclopedia.org .
Researching Science Fiction FanHistory (Pt2 of 2)- Rob Hansen, Andy Hooper, Mark Olson & Joe Siclari FANAC Fan History 2023-04-24 | Panelists Rob Hansen, Andy Hooper, Mark Olson and Joe Siclari each focus in a very different way on fan history. In this Part 2 video, discussion ranges from academia to our panelists' investigative techniques. When the primary resources are fanzines, researchers deal with first person accounts where "accuracy is not their primary virtue", although how different that is from other histories is questionable. Unsurprisingly, panelists share stories and findings, more sometimes with each other than the audience. Spoiler alert: John W. Campbell's mother was not an identical twin!Particularly interesting is a segment on the place of anecdote in fan history, and for those interested in learning more, there's a "starter list" of readings. Audience Q&A forms the last portion of the recording, and with many of the audience experts in their own right, the questions (and answers) are first-rate. You can contribute too: listen to the last part of the video to find out how. For more fan history, go to fanac.org and fancyclopedia.org . If you enjoyed this video, please subscribe to our channel.
Researching Science Fiction FanHistory (Pt1 of 2)- Rob Hansen, Andy Hooper, Mark Olson & Joe Siclari FANAC Fan History 2023-04-23 | The first fan history was written by Jack Speer in 1939, and the most recent is the crowd-sourced Fancyclopedia.org, updated as of yesterday. The fan historians on our panel each focus in a very different way on fan history. Rob Hansen, author of "Then: Science Fiction Fandom in the UK", brings a UK centered perspective to global fandom, and Andy Hooper has deeply researched the first World Science Fiction convention, both publishing in the traditional way. Mark Olson and Joe Siclari are part of the FANAC Fan History project - Mark is chief editor of the crowd-sourced online Fancyclopedia.org, and Joe is the chairman behind the Fan History project, and in particular the driving force behind FANACs digital archive (FANAC.org). In this Part 1 video, the panelists talk about how they became interested in fandom and fan history in particular, and the different approaches they have taken to recording and interpreting fan history. You'll hear about the creation of the first timeline of UK fan history, the nude figure with a dagger in each hand, and the tenuous but possible connection of fandom to the Zodiac killer. Perhaps most engrossing are the stories of contacts from non-fans, relatives of fans long gone. Some of these have no real understanding of what fandom was and is, but are seeking to learn about their relatives. There's even an anecdote about Warren Fitzgerald, the African-American fan who was the founding president of the Scienceers, the first first regularly meeting sf fan club which was started in 1929.For more fan history, go to fanac.org and fancyclopedia.org . If you enjoyed this video, please subscribe to our channel.
Feminism in 1970s/80s Fandom (Pt2): Janice Bogstad, Jeanne Gomoll, and Lucy Huntzinger FANAC Fan History 2023-03-19 | This is Part 2 of the discussion on Feminism in 70s/80s science fiction fandom. Panelists Jeanne, Lucy and Janice continue here with more on the reactions they received from others, and with the differences in being a feminist in fandom in the 70s and in the 80s. Part 2 has stories about dating approaches in fandom, the wonderful origins of Corflu, and a number of anecdotes (both serious and constructive as well as personal and funny) about well known women writers. There are charming anecdotes about Octavia Butler, Connie Willis, Sheri Tepper (and her rousing call to action on population growth), and Ursula Le Guin. You'll also hear about the origins and early days of the Tiptree Award, and its novel funding mechanism. Finally, there are audience comments and reminiscences including a true story about the Minneapolis chicken hat.This session is lots of fun, with a serious thread underlying it. For more fan history, go to fanac.org and fancyclopedia.org . If you enjoyed this video, please subscribe to our channel.
Feminism in 1970s/80s Fandom (Pt1): Janice Bogstad, Jeanne Gomoll, and Lucy Huntzinger FANAC Fan History 2023-03-19 | Fandom in the 70s/80s saw real influence from people with a feminist perspective, from the creation of Wiscon to fanzines like Janus and Rude Bitch, and to raising awareness of the reality women experienced. What were the beginnings? How did Wiscon get started? Was fandom following popular culture or leading it? Panelists Janice Bogstad and Jeanne Gomoll tell us about the creation of Janus, Wiscon and the Madison nexus of feminist thought in 70s fandom, and Lucy Huntzinger brings us into the 80s with the lamentably short-run Rude Bitch, and her other experiences in fandom as a feminist. Moderated by Edie Stern, FANAC.org webmaster, this intriguing panel reveals the unusual origins of Janus (and how the editor found out it was a fanzine!), the academic background brought to the discussions of women in science fiction, and some of the factors that made Madison the hotbed of feminist thought in fandom. These personal histories trace the growth of feminist discussion in broader fandom, and explore why fandom felt like a safe space for women. The panelists also discuss the sometimes negative reactions received. Wound through with personal anecdotes ("Will the real James Tiptree please stand up!", and the production of "The Emperor Norton Science Fiction Hour"), the discussion provides a window on an important area of science fiction fan history. This is part 1 of 2.For more fan history, go to fanac.org and fancyclopedia.org . If you enjoyed this video, please subscribe to our channel.
New York Fandom in the 70s (Pt 2)- Moshe Feder, Jerry Kaufman, Andy Porter, and Steve Rosenstein FANAC Fan History 2023-02-14 | The story of New York fandom is fascinating, from its Worldcon in the 60s to fragmentation and multiple fannish groups in the 70s. In this 2023 Zoom recording, ably moderated by FANAC chair Joe Siclari, our panelists provide a fond and anecdotal recounting of their decades of experience in New York fandom. In this part 2 (of 2), the session continues, beginning with how Star Trek conventions got started, modeled on the local traditional convention, Lunacon. Anecdotes include why a township in NJ paid bus fare for the actors in Trek-a-Star, how PBS was involved with the naming of Omni magazine, and all about Bunnycon, the “get out of jail free convention”. There are stories about SFExpo, Tesser-time, and the fanzine epicenter of New York - Brooklyn. You’ll even hear why Moshe Feder, head of the Omnivores, could never be a Gastrognome. Towards the end of the video, there are comments from attendees, many of whom could easily have been panelists. For more fan history, go to fanac.org and fancyclopedia.org . If you enjoy this video, please subscribe to our channel.
New York Fandom in the 70s (Pt 1)- Moshe Feder, Jerry Kaufman, Andy Porter, and Steve Rosenstein FANAC Fan History 2023-02-13 | The story of New York fandom is fascinating, from its Worldcon in the 60s to fragmentation and multiple fannish groups in the 70s. In this 2023 Zoom recording, ably moderated by FANAC chair Joe Siclari, our panelists provide a fond and anecdotal recounting of their decades of experience in New York fandom. In this part 1 (of 2) you'll hear how they came into fandom (including the value of having a big name pro last name), the true meaning of Kratophany, and what the Avocado Pit really was. There's background on the many NY clubs of the era from Fanoclasts to Fistfa to Lunarians and SFFSAQC (this last founded by one of our speakers). There are personal anecdotes of Isaac Asimov, and the lengths that Jack Chalker went to in order to attend Lunarians while living in Baltimore. This video has plenty more - from the questionable respectability of the NYU club to why Moshe was cautioned not to sing along to "The Music Man" on Broadway to the first live fanzine, Spanish Inquisition and Stu Shiffman's exquisite mastery of on-stencil art. These are stories that really convey what it was like to be a fan in the 70s. For more fan history, go to fanac.org and fancyclopedia.org . If you enjoy this video, please subscribe to our channel.
Fandom in 1970s Pittsburgh Pt 2: Ginjer Buchanan, Linda Bushyager, Suzanne Tompkins, Laurie Mann (m) FANAC Fan History 2022-12-14 | In part 2 of this session, we continue the conversation by the Founding Mothers of WPSFA and PghLANGE (with a few friends!), and continue the focus on fans, professionals and conventions of the 70s.There are some great stories about Harlan Ellison, and Robert Silverberg. Octavia Butler’s interaction with the group comes up too. Linda talks about why she started writing, and her connection to the NYcon, and Ginjer comments on her transition from social worker to award winning editor. The impact of Star Trek on WPSFA is dissected as well. Fans, both living and dead, are remembered, with stories and anecdotes, including the full story of the Pittsburgh subway system. My favorite is the story of “the Sensuous SF writer”. There are touching stories, funny stories, and at least one story that achieved mythic status in fandom. If you were a Pittsburgh fan in the 70s, you may find yourself mentioned!Note: Participants had a few technical difficulties and there are some rough spots in the recording. This is part 2 of 2. For more fan history, go to fanac.org and fancyclopedia.org . If you enjoyed this video, please subscribe to our channel.
Fandom in 1970s Pittsburgh Pt1: Ginjer Buchanan, Linda Bushyager, Suzanne Tompkins, Laurie Mann (m) FANAC Fan History 2022-12-12 | Pittsburgh in the late 60s/70s saw an explosion of fannish activity, with the founding of the Western Pennsylvania SF Association (WPSFA), the creation of PghLANGE and the publication of many fanzines, including Granfalloon (Linda Bushyager and Suzanne Tompkins). What made Pittsburgh special? This group of panelists can certainly tell us - they're the Founding Mothers of WPSFA and PghLANGE. This conversation among friends truly conveys what it was like to be young, female, and the center of fannish creativity in 1970s Pittsburgh. It's history through facts and anecdotes, from how the organizers of the 1960 Worldcon felt about these new kids, to the Breezewood Curse and where the name PgHLANGE came from. You'll learn where and why Harlan Ellison whispered "Save me" to Ginjer, the contents of the first PgHLANGE art show, who Mary Esther is, and how Bob Silverberg came to welcome the Founding Mothers to Pittsburgh. It's great fun, and the convention stories of far too many people sharing far too little sleeping space may remind you of your early convention experiences. Note: Participants had a few technical difficulties and there are some rough spots in the recording. This is part 1 of 2.For more fan history, go to fanac.org and fancyclopedia.org . If you enjoyed this video, please subscribe to our channel.
Maggie Thompson: Before, During and After the Origins of Comics Fandom - Part 2 of 2 FANAC Fan History 2022-10-31 | In this part of the interview by Dr. Chris Couch, we learn more about Maggie Thompson and her influence on comics. With husband Don Thompson, she published fanzines Comic Art and Newfangles, and went on to edit Comics Buyer’s Guide and others. Maggie is a respected professional in the field and has been recognized with many awards, including the Eisner, the Harvey, the Inkpot, and the Jack Kirby awards.Part 2: Continuing this absolutely delightful interview, Maggie talks about her segue into the professional field, the end of Newfangles and the start of the Comic Buyers Guide. The engrossing anecdotes continue, with the nature of cosmopolitan Iola, Wisconsin, her articulation of "perpetual but non-exclusive rights", Dark Shadows, and the Done in One label for comics. There are stories of some of the field's great figures, including Harlan Ellison, Stan Lee, and Carl Barks. You'll see questions from the audience as well. After decades of furious activity in science fiction and comics, Maggie remains bubbling and full of enthusiasm for her chosen community. There was no need to ask Maggie what keeps her involved - the answers are more than clear. For more Fan History, subscribe to this channel. There's much more at fanac.org (including issues of Newfangles - fanac.org/fanzines/Newfangles), and also check out fancyclopedia.org .
Maggie Thompson: Before, During and After the Origins of Comics Fandom - Part 1 of 2 FANAC Fan History 2022-10-31 | Maggie Thompson has the unique distinction of being a second generation science fiction fan, one of the architects of comics fandom in the early 60s, and a much revered professional in the comics field. In this two part zoom session, she is interviewed by Dr. Chris Couch.Part 1: In this absolutely delightful interview, Maggie talks about her lifelong experiences with science fiction, science fiction fandom, and popular culture. From her early love of the Oz books and her delight in John Campbell's magazine Unknown, to her convention and masquerade experiences, to her professional successes, Maggie's anecdotes are engrossing. There are great stories here - how she acquired her complete set of Unknowns, the origins of her publications Comic Art and Newfangles, the family connection to Walt Kelly (and the Pogo comic strip), her friendship with Carl Barks, and more.Endearingly, when asked as a child what she wanted to be when she grew up, Maggie answered "I want to be a BNF" (Big Name Fan). She has certainly accomplished that ambition. For more Fan History, subscribe to this channel. There's much more at fanac.org (including issues of Newfangles - fanac.org/fanzines/Newfangles ), and also check out fancyclopedia.org .
Tropicon 8 (1989) Part 2 of 3 Filk with Julia Ecklar, C.J. Cherryh, Linda Melnick & Orions Belt FANAC Fan History 2022-09-23 | Julia Ecklar was the special filk guest at Tropicon 8, held in Dania, Florida, in 1989. This recording captures the second part of an open filk at the convention, and includes 11 songs (of which Julia sings seven). The singers on this recording in order of appearance: Julia Ecklar, Linda Melnick, Dina Pearlman, C.J. Cherryh, Francine Mullen, and Doug Wu.The video includes more than the songs - it includes much of the conversation between songs, the laughter and the real feel of a 1980s convention filk session. One lovely addition is that Linda Melnick signs on one of the songs, as well as sings. Another bonus - this video includes several songs by Orion's Belt, which consisted of Dina Pearlman, Francine Mullen and Doug Wu. Tropicon was a small convention, and you will see some of the author guests in the filk. That's Tropicon 8 GoH Lynn Abbey sitting next to C.J. Cherryh for example, and Joe Green sitting back against the wall.Thanks to Eli Goldberg for sound editing on this recording and for the details in the song listing. For more information on Fan History and Tropicon, see FANAC.org and Fancyclopedia.org .1. Julia Ecklar, Linda Melnick, Dina Pearlman: Technical Difficulties part 1 (Technical Difficulties/Trad) (1:00)2. C.J. Cherryh: Ilin (Mercedes Lackey/C.J. Cherryh) (3:42)3. Orion's Belt: Only Our Rivers Run Free (Michael McConnell) (7:45)4. Linda Melnick: Katie Cruel (Trad) (11:48)5. Orion's Belt: Arise, My Love (Cynthia McQuillin) (14:38)6. Julia Ecklar: Tin Soldier (Julia Ecklar) (19:40)7. Julia Ecklar, Linda Melnick: Lies (Stan Rogers) (25:38)8. Julia Ecklar: The Phoenix (Julia Ecklar) (33:33)9. Julia Ecklar: Daddy's Little Girl (Julia Ecklar) (38:49)10. Julia Ecklar: Mass Driver Engineer (Diana Gallagher) (45:45)11. Julia Ecklar: Hope Eyrie (Leslie Fish) (49:30)
Minicon 15 (1979)-Theodore Sturgeon Guest of Honor Speech, with intro by Toastmaster Bob Vardeman FANAC Fan History 2022-09-14 | Minicon 15 was held April 13-15, 1979 in Minneapolis, with Guests of Honor Theodore Sturgeon, Rick Sternbach and Tom Digby. In this brief Guest of Honor speech, Sturgeon speaks about his experience at the "Jupiter Encounter" at JPL, seeing photos of Ganymede and Callisto for the first time. This is followed by a rumination on humanity, interwoven with his shaping of "Sturgeon's Law", and an exposition on his favored "Ask the Next Question" philosophy. In this brief 16ish minute recording, you get a sense of the man himself. A lovely (and knowledgeable) intro by Bob Vardeman sets the stage. Thanks to Geri Sullivan and the Video Archeology project for providing the recording. For more Fan History, subscribe to this channel, and visit fanac.org and fancyclopedia.org
