Autograph sentiment book from the 1860's with contributions by Eastman National Business College students (and others) including original artwork by renowned American artist Cassius M. Coolidge.

Poughkeepsie, NY: Not published, 1864. Autograph. Good+ condition. Hardcover. Signed by Author(s). First Edition. 12mo - over 6¾" - 7¾" tall. An autograph book which contains 136 pages with autographs and other written information and sentiments of students mainly attendees of Eastman National Business College (ENBC) Poughkeepsie, NY. The majority of the entries date from 1864-65, with a few that are later. One notable contributor is R.H. Henderson (Robert Henry Hendershot known as the Drummer Boy of the Rappahannock) here listed as being from Jackson, Michigan. C.M. Coolidge (1844-1934) is best known for his series of "Dogs Playing Poker" paintings, an original oil of which sold in 2015 for over $650,000. For H.S. Carpenter whose name is stamped onto the front cover of the autograph book, Coolidge made an original ink drawing which he titled "A Graduate's Appearance in his Native Town" which is an early example of Coolidge's talent. The drawing is signed by Coolidge in an ornate style of penmanship imposed upon business students for which Eastman College was well-known. Included is the 109 page (plus illustrations) Eleventh Annual Illustrated Catalogue of ENBC from 1864 which lists both Carpenter and Coolidge as students. The autograph book spine has perished, leaving several gatherings of pages intact, but many are loose. A small number of pages have some soiling and discoloration, with most remaining clean and unmarked. A remarkable survival containing what may be the first known artwork by this iconic American artist and illustrator. A unique item..