Sparkling Light and Other Poems

With Illustrations

Author: Clark Henry Bronson aka “The blind phrenologist”

Published: Manchester, Iowa, by the author

1877 [First Edition]

Known as “The blind phrenologist”, Clark Henry Bronson lost his sight at the age of eighteen while at the university of Iowa. Previous to the affliction he had paid considerable attention to phrenology as well as other sciences and natural history. Blindness caused him to turn his attention to being a lecturer on these subjects. His success as a phrenologist and lecturer was highly appreciated by the public and was principally confined to Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Kansas and Texas.

A wonderfully eclectic collection of poems that deal with a wide range of topics to include (in part): the founders of phrenology, going blind, the use of tobacco “the glorious weed”, depression and exhilaration, caring for his little sister Nell, beautiful birds, having a phrenologist feel your head, metamorphosis of a butterfly, an outline of phrenology, a ride to the Chicago Boulevards, etc. etc.

The book measures 8 ¼ x 6 ¼ inches, 158 pages + 2 pages of publisher’s ads, bound in green cloth covered beveled boards with the front cover and spine embossed with the title in gilt, some rubbing to the cloth at the tips, some wear to the cloth at crown and foot of spine, occasional spots of age tanning throughout, few pages dog-eared otherwise in very good condition, odor free. Previous owner’s presentation inscription from on front free end paper in pencil. Numerous black & whites text vignettes and portraits of notable phrenologist throughout.

A scarce copy of the first edition, it will be a welcome addition to your collection.

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