When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Antique 19th-century “Floral Album” published by J. B. Lippincott & Co., Philadelphia, containing numerous period handwritten inscriptions, signatures, poems and sentiments.
A fascinating untouched Civil War-era personal album with entries spanning at least the late 1850s through the Civil War period. Clearly dated examples include April 27, 1859 and February 16, 1862, with additional dated and undated inscriptions throughout.
One particularly interesting early inscription is addressed to Grace M. M. Morrill and is accompanied by “Mobile Alabama.” The handwritten date appears to read February 26th, 1839, although this date has not been independently authenticated and is being described exactly as observed. Other entries are also addressed directly to “Grace,” suggesting she was the album’s owner/recipient.
The album contains numerous names and period inscriptions that may provide additional genealogical or historical research opportunities.
Also found tucked inside the binding are old newspaper clippings and handwritten papers/notes. These have been left with the album exactly as found. Some clippings discuss political/social subjects of their period.
Red cloth-covered binding with ornate gilt decoration and “ALBUM” in gilt on the spine. Decorative printed J. B. Lippincott & Co. title page.
Condition: Significant age-related wear. Covers and spine show wear, losses and deterioration. Previous owner applied clear tape/plastic over portions of the exterior in an apparent attempt to protect/stabilize the binding. Interior pages show expected toning, foxing, stains and other age-related wear. Loose papers/clippings are fragile. Please examine all photographs carefully for condition.
Provenance: A modern handwritten note found with the album states that it was purchased at sale on 4-8-06, was not from that purchaser’s family, and was believed by them to be an early/mid-1800s autograph book.
No attempt has been made to authenticate or definitively identify every individual represented in the album. Names, dates and historical associations should be independently researched by the buyer.
Sold exactly as pictured, including the loose material found inside.
An unusual original piece of 19th-century American social history spanning the years immediately preceding and during the American Civil War.
