Collection Identifier: C.2017-02

Preservation Sponsor: The Armstrong Family

Repository
CFA

Extent of collection
64 reels of 16mm totaling approx. 6600 feet; 43 reels of Super 8 totaling approx. 2390 feet; 30 reels of 8mm totaling approx. 2000 feet; 3 reels of filmstrips totaling approx. 15 feet; 3 12" vinyl records.

Inclusive Dates
circa 1926 - 1985

Bulk Dates
1926 - 1985

Abstract
This collection of home movies documents the lives of the Armstrong family, who lived and worked in Chicago during the 1920s - 40s, then moved to the suburbs in the post-war era. The films depict family vacations to Michigan, Florida, and Wisconsin, alongside a few amateur horror films made by the younger generations during the 1980s.

Description
The earliest films in the collection, dating to 1926-1954, were made by John O. Armstrong, who lived in and around Chicago during that time, and owned a large manufacturing company by the name of Armstrong Blum. 

Another batch of films in the collection were made during the 1960s and 70s by Donald L. Armstrong, John's son. Films shot during the 1980s onwards were most likely captured by brothers Michael and William Armstrong, including the amateur horror films made in and around their home in Wheaton, Illinois. 
 

Custodial History
The collection was donated to CFA in 2017 by Leigh Armstrong, who helped store her husband's archive (Michael Armstrong) for many years.

Language of Materials
English

Access Restrictions
Appointments must be made with Chicago Film Archives for on-site access. Due to the fragile nature of the films, only video copies will be provided for on-site viewing.

Use Restrictions
Chicago Film Archives holds the copyright for the films in this collection.

Collections