Arthur Peterson played character and supporting roles on stage, television,
and feature films. On television, fans of the series Soap (1977-1981),
a spoof on soap operas, may remember Peterson as the Major. Born in
North Dakota, Peterson first obtained a degree in theater from the
University of Minnesota before becoming a professional actor with
the Federal Theater Project. Peterson made his media debut in 1936
with a regular role on the radio serial The Guiding Light.
During WWII, Peterson fought within General Patton's third regiment.
Upon his discharge, Peterson appeared in the ABC network's first situation
comedy, That's O'Toole. Peterson's stage work included appearances
in such plays as Inherit the Wind. His film credits include
Return to Peyton Place (1961), Born Wild (1968), the
television movie Rollercoaster (1977), and Just Pals
(1982). Peterson spent 1981 to 1991 touring the country with his wife
in a Pasadena Playhouse production of The Gin Game. When the
play's long run ended, Peterson retired from acting. He passed away
on October 31, 1996.
The collection
contains materials relating to Peterson's long acting career. Types
of materials include scripts to his television, film, and stage roles,
correspondence, photographs, and props used by Peterson. Date range
of materials is from the early 1940s to the late 1980s. It comprises
33 containers containing 12 cubic feet (18 linear feet).
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the Arthur Peterson Collection
For additional information on the Arthur Peterson
Collection in Special Collections & Archives, please consult the
Special Collections & Archives staff. The Special Collections
& Archives staff is always willing to assist researchers. Special
Collections & Archives has a reading room, providing a quiet haven
for serious research. Most materials may be photocopied, either by
the researcher or by staff, depending on the nature of the items.
Telephone or mail requests for photocopies and photographs are handled
for a fee on a prepaid basis. Tours can be arranged for small groups,
and speakers are available upon request. Some materials may also be
requested for use in exhibitions.
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