Description
Here is an unusual early version of “A Message to Garcia”, the inspirational missive that launched Elbert Hubbard to fame in 1899. Printed by the Roycrofters in East Aurora, New York, this copyright 1899 paper version has one illumined initial designed by W W Denslow on the first page, but instead of the usual maritime initial, this is part of his “Diamond” alphabet. Denslow was a Roycrofter before he illustrated the Wonderful Wizard of Oz; see the Spring 2015 Baum Bugle for more information. About 5 5/8″ by 8 5/8″ and only 11 numbered pages (some other printings dated 1899 have 14 or 9); this is the first book #46f in the McKenna bibliography. The back cover has the railroad advertisement.
Booklet in very good condition, with clean covers and pages except age toning around a small advertising flyer, laid in and included. String binding intact, no tears or writing. Nice early copy of Hubbard’s classic essay, with the added Denslow connection.
