This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/30/2019
Booker T. Washington signed first printing of ''The Future of the American Negro'', the first major publication of the Civil Rights leader. Boston: Small, Maynard & Company, 1899 first printing, with matching dates on title and copyright pages, and with the following printed on copyright page: ''Press of / George H. Ellis, Boston, U.S.A.'' Washington inscribes the front pastedown, ''To Mr. Arthur T. Lyman, from / Booker T. Washington / May 8, 1900.'' The recipient is likely Arthur T. Lyman, Jr., related in lineage to Ralph Waldo Emerson, a prominent Massachusetts Democrat of his day, and mayor of Waltham, Massachusetts. Written approximately 20 years after founding Tuskegee University, ''The Future of the American Negro'' was Washington's first major publication, preceding his autobiography ''Up from Slavery'' by two years. Volume in original red boards with gilt lettering measures 5'' x 7.75''. Minor shelf wear and toning to interior. Expert restoration including recasing front hinge. An important signed first edition in the history of Civil Rights.