Yale Class of 1826: Friendship Album with 99 Affectionate Inscriptions

Affectionate and remarkably comprehensive, a friendship album compiled at 'Yale College' by Elizur T Washburn on what his friend A D Parker describes as 'your hasty & unexpected departure from College'. Compiled in July 1826 Washburn persuaded 99 members of the 108 members of his graduating class to contribute to the book, and many have contributed with gusto. There are two page letters (see Amos Phelps) as well as the obligatory poetic sentiments and signatures. A lovely example of its kind. DESCRIPTION: Octavo half calf over marbled boards with the red morocco label of 'Elizur T Washburn' to the upper cover. Spine leather dried out with a long vertical crack although the binding which is delicate remains intact. Bookseller's label of 'Durrie & Peck' of New Haven to front pastedown and Washburn's pencil ownership signature opposite. Flyleaf loose along gutter. Engraved title page: 'Album' A member of the Yale class of 1826, Elizur T. Washburn has written every classmate's name in pencil in the upper right hand corner of each page, arranged alphabetically, and attempted to get as many signatures and inscriptions as possible, of the 108 graduates of 1826 (Yale's largest class up to that point). Remarkably enough, Washburn persuaded 99 to sign and/or inscribe his book with a further 6 members of the classes of 1827 & 1828 having added their signatures to the rear. Notable signatories include Julian M Sturtevant (quoting poet Cowper, 'A Soul immortal') later college professor and President of Illinois College;