is pleased to announce the publication of


HISTORY IN YOUR HAND:
Fifty Years of The Manuscript Society
by John M. Taylor







A half-century has passed since the founding of The Manuscript Society in Chicago in 1948. To help commemorate this important milestone, the Society has commissioned former president John M. Taylor, the author of six acclaimed books in the fields of history and biography, to write a definitive history of the Society.

History in Your Hand is a hardcover book, published by Greenwood Press. Its 17 lively chapters tell the story of The Manuscript Society and its growth from its early beginnings to the present, but in the larger context of autograph collecting in general. The rise in interest in autograph collecting has brought many changes to the hobby. Ever increasing values have encouraged forgers, and new dealers and auction houses spring up every year.

There are chapters on the famous forger Mark Hofmann and on the near-destruction of President Harding's love letters to his mistress. The Society's important role in opposing attempts by government agencies to replevin privately owned manuscripts is recounted in fascinating detail. Many memorable annual meetings are recalled, and the book includes photographs of those who have played key roles in the life of the Society.

History in Your Hand is a must for the library of any serious collector of autographs and manuscripts.



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