Walt Whitman 1819 - 1892

Autograph of Walter “Walt” Whitman Jr. (1819-1892) American poet, essayist, novelist and journalist. He is considered by many as one of the leading influential poets in American and worldwide literature.

Autograph on manuscript double-sided card reading “Frank Test, 3rd floor 44 N 4th Room 54 8 to 9 A M & after 5 P.M. Will print Target Envelops 50 ₵ per 1000, 10,000 lots. With 2 foot strips of wood both sides with Advertisements for 75 ₵ per 1000 in 10,000 M lots.” On one side of card with other side reading “I hope you will be all ready for me in the printing offices by the 16th or 17th. Walt Whitman”.

Document measures 3.25” x 5”, exhibits slight toning and exhibits strong signature. Provenance: Gibbs family collection, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Walter Whitman Jr. was an American journalist and poet, who is considered a key figure in American and world literature. He is often called the father of free verse for his innovative verse style and challenging of traditional narratives. His most famous work is Leaves of Grass, which he published in multiple editions over 33 years, expanding it from 12 poems to nearly 400.