This is a rare original 1910 Art Calendars salesman sample book from The Thos. D. Murphy Co. of Red Oak, Iowa. Measuring 17" x 12.5", this oversized catalog was used by salesmen to showcase calendar artwork and advertising options to prospective business clients.

This edition includes 17 pages—many have been removed—and features vivid lithographed artwork printed as calendar samples. Several pages include illustrations by renowned artists of the early 20th century, including Thomas Moran and R. Atkinson Fox, two of the most collectible names in calendar art.

Publisher: The Thos. D. Murphy Co., Red Oak, Iowa
Date: 1910
Size: 17" x 12.5"
Pages: 17 (pages included are 13-22, 25-30, 35-42, 49-54 - other pages are missing)
Condition: Fair overall – shows moisture damage, small tears (one tear repaired with tape), and missing pages, but still retains vibrant artwork and historic value.

The Thos. D. Murphy Company was a pioneer in American advertising art and is often credited as one of the first firms to mass-produce and distribute illustrated advertising calendars. Founded in the late 19th century, Murphy’s calendars featured works by major artists and were widely circulated across the United States, becoming part of everyday life in homes and businesses alike.

This salesman sample book is a scarce survivor from the early advertising age and a valuable artifact for collectors of ephemera, advertising, or calendar art.

Ships flat and securely with rigid packaging.

From the Chuck Olson Collection

Chuck Olson spent over 40 years collecting vintage calendar and advertising art. His archive preserves an era when illustration shaped American visual culture.

Please feel free to reach out with any questions or to request additional photos of specific pages.