Sam Houston: Giant on a Postage Stamp

N.p.: The Encino Press, 1971. Paperback. 8vo. Tan wrappers. (7pp). Illustration. Near fine. Christmas keepsake printed in a small quantity for distribution by Senator Yarborough (1903-96),Democratic senator from Texas who rode in the Dallas motorcade carrying President Kennedy in 1963), designed for him by Encino Press's founder, William D. Wittliff -- better known these days as the screenwriter for "The Perfect Storm" and other films. The text consists of a speech that Yarborough gave at the unveiling of the Sam Houston five-cent commemorative stamp in (where else?) Houston on 10 January 1964. On the front page, he boldly signs and inscribes in in black fineline: "For Ralph Newman -- Who knows the many facets of Sam Houston -- and the Documents which come from each one -- May the Holidays Cheer you, and 1972 improve your already enriched life," signed and dated December 1972. Ralph G. Newman (1912-2000) founded Chicago's noted Abraham Lincoln Book Shop and, no doubt, supplied Yarborough with Houston and other documents for his collection. With original, stamped and cancelled envelope, signed by Yarborough at upper left and addressed in his huge, flamboyant hand. A choice presentation copy of a very uncommon Encino Press publication.