[AMERICANA] [LIBER AMICORUM]. ZANELLI (Alfredo). Autographs. - Lot 6

[AMERICANA] [LIBER AMICORUM]. ZANELLI (Alfredo). Autographs. A moving and cosmopolitan record of American student life in the Belle Époque: the "Book of Friends" of a student at Eastman Business College. Poughkeepsie, New York, 1908-1909. Small in-4 volume (240 x 190 mm). Softbound burgundy full calf notebook, gilt title on front board. 66 leaves. Slight traces of handling, rubbing, dull corners and faded headpieces. Clean and fresh inside. Precious Liber amicorum of Alfredo Zanelli, a student at the famous Eastman Business College in Poughkeepsie, New York, at the turn of the 20th century. It consists of messages from fellow students, accompanied by original photographic portraits, drawings and collages. It opens with a period photograph of the College's façade. The album bears witness to the school's global reach: the signatures and portraits come from students in Cuba, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Canada and even Japan. Founded in the mid-19th century by Harvey G. Eastman, a visionary educator and former mayor of the town, the college and its associated buildings - now gone - embody the golden age of vocational education and urban growth in Poughkeepsie. A unique documentary source for the history of Poughkeepsie, professionalized education in the United States and genealogical research.