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Rare 1858 Autograph Letter Signed by Lyman C. Draper with Printed Circular
Offered here is an exceptional pairing of documents from Lyman Copeland Draper (1815–1891), celebrated historian, manuscript collector, and early educational leader in Wisconsin.
Autograph Letter Signed (ALS), Nov. 12, 1858, Madison, Wisconsin – Draper writes to a correspondent (“My Dear Irving”), noting he has sent copies of an enclosed circular to major publishers including Mason Brothers, Redfield, Walker, and Harper Bros. He hopes the Harpers “will furnish a liberal sample as properly needed. It will be their interest to do so.” Signed “L.C.D.”
Printed Circular, Nov. 10, 1858 – Official circular issued from Draper’s office as Superintendent of Public Instruction of Wisconsin. Draper appeals to book publishers to contribute works suitable for establishing a permanent system of School Libraries in the state. He references working with Henry Barnard, Chancellor-elect of the University of Wisconsin, and Prof. Daniel Read, key figure in the Indiana school library system.
Manuscript Endorsements – Draper’s handwritten note “Circular addressed to book publishers” and docketing “L.C. Draper, Nov. 1858” appear on the document.
Historical Context:
Best remembered as the first Secretary of the Wisconsin Historical Society and for his monumental Draper Manuscripts, Draper was a pivotal figure in preserving American frontier and Revolutionary War history. This rare letter and circular illustrate his role as Superintendent of Public Instruction (1858–1860), promoting the creation of school libraries across Wisconsin and engaging directly with leading publishers of the day.
Condition:
Both pieces well-preserved with folds as expected. Bold autograph in Draper’s hand. Printed circular remains crisp and highly legible.
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✅ Authentic 1858 Draper ALS with matching printed circular
✅ Mentions Harper Bros. and other major publishers
✅ Rare glimpse into early library development in Wisconsin
