Hattie McDaniel’s performance in GWTW was brilliant. Her Mamie was more complex and nuanced than most of the performances of the era, male or female, Black or White. Her Oscar was well-deserved. It must have taken a lot of courage for a person of color to even try to break into motion pictures at that time. It’s a shame that some people don’t appreciate her contribution.

Before WWII, Supporting Actress winners were awarded a plaque, not a statuette. McDaniel donated hers to Howard University where it was on display. It has since disappeared.

One rumor is that it was stolen during the student unrest of the late 1960s to early 1970s. It may have been thrown away or destroyed by someone upset that she won for playing a stereotypical character.

It’s also possible that it was stolen and ended up in a private collection. When NPR interviewed Howard University personnel in 2009, they said they believe it may simply have been misplaced. I hope it resurfaces someday.