Avalon Ballroom 8/19-20/66

One of the most popular of the early Family Dog posters, this Mouse Studios design has a central image of Frankenstein. The original poster was printed twice, and the press runs are easily distinguishable, but it unknown which was actually printed first. As such, both types are considered to be originals, even though one was undoubtedly printed after the show. Interestingly, the name of the headline band, The Grateful Dead, is misspelled on this poster as “Greatful.” Even with two press runs of the original, this poster is tough to find today in top condition. Most are seen with extensive pinholes and folds, and many are discolored and faded.

The original poster was printed on vellum. There are two types and both are nearly identical except for the measurements. Both carry the notation “The Bindweed Press San Francisco” at the bottom left of the poster.

Type A measures approximately 14″ x 20″.

Type B measures approximately 13⅞″ x 20″.

The third print poster was printed on uncoated index stock and measures approximately 14″ x 20″. The notation “No. 22-3” appears in the lower right corner.

There is also a forgery of this poster that looks much like the third print, except that the print quality is substandard and the smaller lettering is blurry.

The original handbill measures approximately 8 1/2 ″ x 11″ and was printed on thin yellow paper in black ink.