Description
First edition of Theatrical Journey-Work and Anecdotical Recollections of Solomon Smith.
Small octavo, [2], 254pp. Three-quarter brown morocco, thin border stamped in blind. Four raised bands, title in gilt on spine. Marbled paper boards. No additional printings listed. Solid text block, light rubbing along edges, touch of soiling to endpapers. (Howes S671) (Sabin 84240) Includes frontispiece portrait of the author and subject, Solomon Smith.
Solomon Franklin Smith (1801-1869) joined the Alexander Drake dramatic company in 1820, withdrew the following year and began studying law in Cincinnati, Ohio. He traveled with an acting company and gained a reputation as “a low comedian,” with roles as Mawworm in “The Hypocrite,” Sheepface in “The Village Lawyer,” and Billy Lackaday in ” Sweethearts and Wives.” He abandoned theatrical management and the stage in 1853, settled as a lawyer in St. Louis, and was a member of the Missouri state convention in 1861. He was an ardent Union man, and bore an active part in forming a provisional government for the state. His published works include: “Theatrical Apprenticeship” (1845); “Theatrical Journey Work” (1854); and an “Autobiography” (1868).
