Walter’s Sketch Book of The Players
- Linda Dupree
- Jan 6
- 2 min read
By LINDA DUPREE, The Players Foundation
We’re excited to share something truly special with the Club community. This winter, The Players Foundation released a limited-edition facsimile of Walter’s Sketch Book of The Players—created by Walter Oettel, one of the most beloved figures in our history. Many of you know his story: Oettel arrived at The Players in 1888 as a young waiter, became Edwin Booth’s trusted valet, and eventually served as General Manager. For more than fifty years, he shaped the life of this Club and was cherished by generations of members.
Originally published in 1943 and now extremely hard to find, Oettel’s Sketch Book captures the spirit, humor, and daily life of The Players in a way no other record does. Original copies are almost never available, and for years this charming volume has been accessible only in archives.
The Foundation's new facsimile brings it back to the Club—a hand-numbered edition of just 100 copies.
To support the Foundation’s preservation and education work, we are offering the book as a thank-you gift for new donations of $100 or more.
• One book per $100 donation (maximum two books per donor)
• Donations are tax-deductible
• Pick-up at The Players when convenient for you
Whether you’re adding it to your own library or gifting it to a fellow member or theatre lover, this facsimile is a wonderful way to honor Edwin Booth, celebrate Walter Oettel, and support the Foundation’s mission to preserve our shared heritage.
Thank you, as always, for helping us safeguard the legacy of The Players.
— The Players Foundation
Click to learn more about The Players Foundation for Theatre Education
Linda Dupree, former CEO of NCSolutions, now serves on The Players Foundation board, bringing her corporate leadership to the preservation of theatre and cultural history -- driven by a deep belief in the transformative power of the arts.
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