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SAMUEL FRANCIS SMITH Full Autograph Poem Signed AMERICA-My Country, 'Tis of Thee

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles / Autographs Start Price:1,800.00 USD Estimated At:2,000.00 - 4,000.00 USD
SAMUEL FRANCIS SMITH Full Autograph Poem Signed AMERICA-My Country, 'Tis of Thee
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Samuel Francis Smith’s Complete Autograph Poem Signed “America” also known as "My Country, 'Tis of Thee"
SAMUEL FRANCIS SMITH (1808-1895). Poet, Author and Reverend best known for writing the lyrics to the historic patriotic song, “America” also known as "My Country, 'Tis of Thee".
May 1894-Dated Autograph Poem Signed, “S. F. Smith”, Headed “America” written on heavy wove period paper measuring 9.75” x 7”, 1 page, no place, Choice Very Fine. This presentation example contains all four stanzas of “America” which are beautifully fully written out by Smith’s own hand and signed in rich vivid brown ink. Samuel Francis Smith signs at lower right corner at the poems conclusion. At bottom center Smith writes: “Written in 1832. - This autograph, May, (18)‘94.” Although Smith occasionally wrote out one stanza of “America” and signed it, it is far more rare to find all four stanzas fully written and signed in his hand. Pencil notation from a prior owner on the clean blank reverse reads, “Guido Bruno 11/3/42”. Minor tone along the extreme outer edges from prior display with some trivial mounting and traces on its verso. Includes a facsimile copy of an engraving of Smith above the four stanzas of “America” laid onto a larger sheet, appearing virtually identical to our authentic example. An impressive rare find that is highly attractive, and has excellent eye appeal for display.
Samuel Francis Smith (1808-1895). Clergyman, Writer and Poet, best known for writing the lyrics to the patriotic song “America.” Samuel Francis Smith wrote the lyrics to "My Country 'Tis of Thee" or “America” in 1831. Written in 30 minutes, the song was first sung in Boston on July 4, 1832. After graduating from Harvard in 1829, Smith began a career in which he was at various times a Baptist minister, a professor of modern foreign languages, and a writer for magazines and the Encyclopedia Americana.