Boston-born Baptist minister and academic best known as the lyricist of “America” (“My Country ’Tis of Thee”), written while he was a student at Andover Theological Seminary. Smith’s stirring patriotic song, set to the same melody as the British national anthem (“God Save the Queen”), served as a de facto national anthem for much of the nineteeth century. Incredible AQS, 21 x 16, comprising the first four stanzas of “America,” beautifully penned in Smith’s hand and signed “S. F. Smith” at the conclusion and dated by him at lower left, “Written in Feb. 1832, Oct. 1, 1892 (autograph).” Signed manuscript copies of Smith’s immortal lyrics remain one of the most desirable prizes for serious collectors of Americana; we have never encountered another example of this impressive size and such eminently displayable character. In fine condition, with toning from previous mounting (which is away from writing and which can be easily matted out), a faint dime-sized spot at the beginning of the second stanza, a few small chips to edges (well away from any writing), and two small pieces of tape at top edge of reverse. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA. Oversized.
