The Manning Brothers Story -- Part 1

John Manning was very proud of his Native American ancestry and did several photo and video sessions for AMG dressed in what could (loosely) be called native garb. I do recall one PP blurb where Mizer told us John was eager to don the native costumes. 

I recently came across the B&W photos of John below and found them to be much clearer than any of the copies I have in my collection. They are all from Bruce of LA and I assume were taken at Bruce's ranch outside of LA. The photos were used to promote Bruce's films Indian War Paint (released in 1965) and the simply titled The Indian (released in 1969). They are the same film.  I have seen the film a few times. Near the end of it, John climbs some large boulders to survey the land around him. It must have been a huge ranch. 

I've also included two color photos from a session at Bruce's studio. The costume is similar, but not identical. Years ago, I found a well-curated website that had many (if not all) of the color photos from that session. The curator stated John was photographed in Bruce's studio in 1957 -- and I have no reason to doubt that. For reference, John first posed for AMG in 1955/56 and first appeared in PP Vol. 8 No. 2-4 in the fall of 1958.  

The B&W images are dated 1963 and that may be misleading. The images were published in the magazine The Male Image published in 1963. I suspect the photos date closer to 1957 because John looks pretty much the same in them. 

Finally, as you know, I'm a big fan of John Manning and his two younger brothers. I've recently taken the task of learning all about the three brothers and some of what I've learned came directly from you, the readers of this blog. This is Part 1 of what will be several postings in my attempt to accumulate that information. I ask for your assistance in sending me a note or commenting on the posts -- even if you previously sent me information on the Manning bros. Your information will be much appreciated.