Original bookplate, designed and printed for the personal use of William F. Gable (1856-1921).

Approx: 4" x 2 3/4".

Also included is a printed piece of paper folded in half, containing the bookplate within. It reads: "Bookplate for William F. Gable, Altoona, Pennsylvania: From the Etching by Sheldon Cheney." It measures 6 1/4" x 4 1/4" when closed.

In very good + to near fine condition.

William Francis Gable (1856–1921) was a prominent American businessman and bibliophile best known as the founder of Gable's Department Store in Altoona, Pennsylvania. Born in Upper Uwchlan, Chester County, Pennsylvania, Gable began his career in retail, establishing a small store on March 1, 1884, that would grow into one of the state's most successful department stores. Known as "the people's store," Gable's became a commercial landmark in Altoona, celebrated for its innovative retail practices, including elaborate holiday displays and in-store events that drew customers from across the region. Beyond his business success, Gable was an avid book collector, amassing an impressive personal library that reflected his appreciation for literature and the arts. His influence extended beyond commerce, as he contributed to the cultural and civic life of his community, leaving a legacy that endured long after his passing.

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