I have learned that the late Hank Kaplan has donated his entire collection to New York's Brooklyn College. Kaplan was perhaps the most respected of the research-oriented historians who has had a keen eye on boxing since the 1930s. Kaplan had his garage converted into a library. I have seen a picture of it. It was a virtual treasure trove of new clippings, photos, and magazines. Those who live in New York should check it out.
Imagine having all the time in the world to hang out in your garage away from the world, and veg out on a hobby. I wish I had the time. I just finished my garage by seal coating all the floors and putting in gladiator brand storage cabinets and a workbench unit. I have a refrigerator also made by Gladiator, and have it stocked with beer. I just need to get rid of my wife and kid for about 6 hours one afternoon.
He passed away. Im glad he was alive to be inducted into boxings hall of fame. Kaplan was not a media me first type of historian. He was a gentleman who prefered to listen rather than talk. Kaplan had a high opinion on Liston, and Lewis. Kaplans boxing collection was worth thousands of dollars. Donating it to a college will preserve many things that would have otherwise been lost with the passage of time.