Composer of America ('My country 'tis of thee...'). Fabulous AQS signed 'S. F. Smith,' dated January 8, 1869, two adjoined pages of lightly lined pager, 5 x 8. Smith pens all four stanzas of the immortal America. It was only on rare occasions that Smith would write out complete autograph manuscripts of all four stanzas. While the elderly Smith apparently did not mind writing out a few lines, or even a complete stanza for an admirer, he was reluctant to take the time to write out a complete piece. Only a handful of complete four-stanza manuscripts are known to exist and they have only rarely appeared on the market. In fine condition, with a light vertical fold to first page. COA John Reznikoff/University Archives and RRAuction COA.
