A Remarkable Piece of Oz History: E.Y. Harburg’s Contract for “In the Merry Old Land of Oz”
Some stories transcend time, enchanting generation after generation. The Wizard of Oz is one such tale, captivating audiences for decades with its timeless magic and unforgettable characters. Now, with the new Wicked movie reigniting global fascination with the Land of Oz, it’s the perfect moment to spotlight a rare historical treasure that ties directly into that legendary world.
We’re thrilled to share an extraordinary piece of film history: the original 1938 contract signed by E.Y. “Yip” Harburg, the brilliant lyricist behind many of the beloved tunes in The Wizard of Oz. Specifically, this contract concerns “In the Merry Old Land of Oz,” one of the musical gems that helped define the movie’s charm. It’s a behind-the-scenes glimpse of how Hollywood’s golden age operated—when composers and studios finalized the rights to what would become cultural landmarks.
Why This Contract Matters!
E.Y. Harburg’s lyrics brought Dorothy’s journey to life, weaving whimsy and wonder into each note. From “Over the Rainbow” to the cheery marches through Emerald City, his artistic vision remains a key reason The Wizard of Oz still resonates so strongly today. This contract not only gives us insight into the business side of show business, but also reminds us of the dedication and craftsmanship that made this story endure.
A New Chapter: Wicked on the Big Screen
Fast-forward to the present, and we find ourselves once again under the spell of Oz—this time through the lens of the witches’ backstory in Wicked. Adapted from the Broadway smash hit, the new film delves deeper into the origins of the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch, further expanding the magical realm Harburg helped shape. The continued popularity of Oz-themed stories reflects just how pivotal these early creative contracts and collaborations have been in keeping this universe alive for nearly a century.
Ruby Slippers Fetch $32.5 Million
Another recent development illustrating the enduring allure of The Wizard of Oz is the remarkable $32.5 million sale of the iconic Ruby Slippers at Heritage Auctions. This staggering figure underscores not only the slippers’ rarity but also the deep emotional connection collectors share with these timeless artifacts. Oz memorabilia holds a special place in pop culture, and record-breaking sales like this reinforce just how valuable these treasures have become.
Consigned to University Archives
We’re honored to have consigned this historic E.Y. Harburg contract to University Archives for their upcoming January sale. It’s a chance for collectors and fans alike to own an indispensable piece of Oz lore—one that paved the way for the music and magic that continues to captivate us. After nearly a century, the story behind Harburg’s collaboration with Loews Incorporated (the predecessor to MGM) is as vibrant and relevant as ever.
Link to Sale:
The Enduring Magic of Oz
From its earliest contracts to its modern-day adaptations, The Wizard of Oz universe shows no sign of fading. Whether you first discovered its wonders through the classic 1939 film or have recently been swept away by Wicked, the Land of Oz still beckons us all to dream big and follow our own yellow brick roads.
If you’re a dedicated collector or simply an Oz enthusiast, don’t miss the opportunity to explore this unique E.Y. Harburg contract at University Archives this January. What do you think it will sell for? Leave a comment below!