Pierce Rafferty, a celebrated and accomplished filmmaker, first drew his first breath in the year 1952, within the picturesque confines of Connecticut, a state renowned for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Rafferty's lineage is deeply rooted in a rich and storied past, with his grandfather Marvin Pierce holding prominent positions as president and later chairman of McCall Corporation, a renowned publisher of widely popular women's magazines such as Redbook and McCall's.
Furthermore, Rafferty is a direct descendant of Thomas Pierce, a pioneering figure in the early days of New England colonization, whose contributions to the region's development and growth are still celebrated today.
Moreover, Rafferty can trace his ancestry back to Franklin Pierce, the 14th President of the United States, a distinguished leader who played a significant role in shaping the country's history and leaving a lasting legacy.
It is worth noting that Rafferty's family ties to these notable figures serve as a testament to the enduring influence of his heritage, which continues to inspire and guide him to this day.
Pierce, a notable individual, embarked on an educational journey that would ultimately shape his future pursuits, by enrolling at Phillips Academy Andover, a prestigious institution renowned for its academic excellence and esteemed alumni.
In the year 1984, Rafferty embarked on a groundbreaking venture by co-founding Petrified Films, Inc. alongside his former spouse, Margaret Crimmins, a partnership that would have a profound impact on the industry.
This pioneering independent stock film footage library, a true trailblazer in its field, would go on to acquire and house a vast array of valuable collections, including the esteemed Elmer Dyer Film Library, a treasure trove of cinematic riches.
Furthermore, Petrified Films, Inc. would also have the privilege of adding to its repertoire the outtakes from Warner Bros. and Columbia Pictures' feature films, a coup that would solidify its reputation as a go-to destination for film enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.
For a prolonged period of time, spanning over a decade, Rafferty devoted himself to the meticulous task of organizing and cataloging vast vaults filled with film canisters, scattered throughout the urban landscape of New York City.
Situated in the very heart of Manhattan's esteemed Meatpacking District, Petrified licensed archival footage to a wide range of esteemed clients, including film, television, and commercial producers, prior to being acquired by The Image Bank.
The Image Bank, in turn, was subsequently acquired by the renowned Getty Images, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of Rafferty's work.
Rafferty, a talented individual, embarked on a creative endeavor alongside his brother, Kevin Rafferty, and Jayne Loader, resulting in the production of the iconic cult classic film, "The Atomic Cafe", which premiered in 1982, leaving a lasting impact on the cinematic world.
Pierce Rafferty currently occupies the esteemed position of Director at the Henry L. Ferguson Museum, a prestigious institution located on the picturesque Fishers Island, situated in the state of New York.
