Clergyman and poet, author of our national hymn America, otherwise known as My Country ’Tis of Thee. Very nice AQS on a 5 x 6 off-white sheet, Smith pens the first stanza of America. In full, “America. My country, ‘tis of thee, Sweet land of liberty, Of thee I sing; Land where my fathers died, Land of the pilgrims’ pride, from every mountainside, Let freedom ring,” signed “S. F. Smith, written Feb. 1832,” and the presumed date of signing, “Apr. 85,” and inscribed “For Mrs. A. Dennison.” Matted and framed to an overall size of 9.25 x 11.5. In fine condition, with light overall toning and a couple light horizontal folds. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
