The New Hampshire Book: Specimens of Granite State Literature

The New Hampshire Book: Specimens of Native Literature (1844), compiled by Charles J. Fox and Samuel Osgood, collects poems, essays, orations, and sketches by authors native to New Hampshire. Contributors range across theology, philosophy, politics, and belles-lettres, including Daniel Webster on New England's vindication and American mothers' duties; Joseph Buckminster on agriculture and women; Horace Greeley on casual counsel and ideals of true life; and Levi Woodbury on citizens' duties. The volume features nature poetry about White Mountains, Monadnock, and New Hampshire scenery; historical pieces on early settlers and Revolutionary militia; moral and religious meditations; and practical discussions of insanity, commerce, temperance, and education. Selections span published work from prominent clergymen, judges, educators, and literary figures, representing what editors deem specimens of the state's intellectual wealth and poetic tradition.