Alfred Harvey facts for kids

Alfred Harvey (born Alfred Harvey Wiernikoff; October 6, 1913 – July 4, 1994) was a famous American comic book publisher. He founded Harvey Comics, a company known for many popular characters. Alfred Harvey created well-known comic book characters like Little Dot and Richie Rich.

His company, Harvey World Famous Comics, brought to life many beloved characters. These included Wendy the Good Little Witch, Spooky the Tuff Little Ghost, and Casper the Friendly Ghost. They also published comics featuring Baby Huey and Little Audrey. The company even published Sad Sack, a military comic strip created by George Baker. Alfred Harvey was born in Brooklyn, New York. His parents were immigrants from Russia.

Alfred Harvey's Career Journey

Alfred Harvey started his career very young. At just 15 years old, he drew cartoons for advertisements. He earned five dollars each week for his work.

Starting in Comics

In the winter of 1939, Alfred Harvey joined Fox Comics. He worked there with famous comic creators Joe Simon and Jack Kirby. He eventually became the managing editor at Fox Comics. However, he left in 1940 to work at an advertising agency called NYAD.

In 1941, he joined the efforts for World War II. He worked at The Pentagon alongside Jack Kirby. Kirby described Harvey as a very "eager type." During this time, Harvey oversaw War Victory Comics. This was the first comic book sponsored by the government.

Founding Harvey Comics

By 1940, Alfred Harvey decided to start his own company. He first named it Alfred Harvey Publications. Later, it was called Family Comics, then Home Comics. He was the president of his new company.

His twin brother, Leon, became the vice president and editor. His older brother, Robert, was the vice president and business manager. The three brothers then renamed their company again. It became Harvey Comics Publications, Inc.

Harvey Comics released its first comic series in 1941. It was called Pocket Comics. This series introduced their main superhero, The Black Cat. As the 1940s went on, superheroes became less popular. By the end of the decade, Harvey's superheroes were no longer featured.

The company then started their Comics Hits Revival series. Due to rules from the Comics Code Authority, comics began to be made for children. Harvey Comics acquired characters from Famous Studios. These characters became very popular in the 1950s. This was a time when many children, known as baby boomers, were growing up.

Alfred Harvey retired in 1982. His company was sold to HMH Communications. In 1989, it was renamed Harvey Comics Entertainment. Alfred Harvey passed away at age 80 on July 4, 1994. He is buried in Mount Hope Cemetery in Hastings-on-Hudson, New York.

Personal Life

Alfred Harvey had three sons and one daughter. His sons are Alan, Russell, and Adam. His daughter is Susan Bush. Alan was born in Larchmont. Russell was born in Manhattan. Adam was born in Mamaroneck. Susan was born in Brooklyn.

Alfred Harvey was married twice. His second wife, Elsa Victoria Lorne Harvey, passed away in March 1994.