Boston-born Baptist minister and academic (1808–1895) 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 nineteenth century. Scarce 4.25 x 6 cabinet photo, signed in ink on the mount, “S. F. Smith.” Stray ink smudge to mount and trimmed top and bottom edges, otherwise fine, fresh condition. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
