Handbound book containing a collection of approximately three hundred and seventy-five (375) different printed poetical broadsides of song lyrics, also known as penny sheets or slip ballads, published by various companies, primarily in New York and Philadelphia, circa 1830s-70s. The broadsides are organized roughly alphabetically with one per page with no duplications. Hardbound octavo, approximately three hundred and seventy-five pages of broadsides with primarily slavery, minstrel, or Civil War-related song lyrics, hardbound in three-quarter brown cloth with marbled-paper sides, gilt lettering to spine. Pencil inscription reading "C.S. Rich his book 1855" to end of book. 9 1/4" H x 5 3/4" W x 2" D. Note: Titles and publishers of all 375 broadsides are available upon request.

CONDITION: Covers with losses, largest 2" x 2", rubbing, wear to marbled paper, wear to hinges, cracking to cloth, general handling wear. Pages with toning/acid burn, foxing spots, tears, flaking, areas of loss, dampstaining, pencil inscriptions from previous owners, to be expected from the ages and the manner in which they were hand collected and bound. Some pages have become separated from the binding, several pages are unbound and tucked into the back of the book.