Given that copyright laws extend back to approximately the 1920's now, I doubt there is much available in the public domain yet. If the material is in the public domain, you may be able to use it and make the adaptations that you describe. But be aware that there may be other kinds of protection on the work that would prevent you from doing this. Check with an IP attorney to see if what you have in mind is feasible.
Answered on May 01st, 2015 at 9:07 AM