Huntsman, John [compiler]. Social Melodies, being a collection of the most popular Hymns and Spiritual Songs, now in use, And designed to encourage and stimulate the Spirit of Devotion. St. Clairsville, O.: Published by E. Harris & J. Huntsman | Printed by Heaton & Gressinger, 1842. First Edition. [9875]
Leather spine, mustard paper over card, small hole in the center of both boards, boards are scuffed and worn, corners rounded, joints are cracked and appear to have been glued at some time; the book is stiff to open. 10.2 x 6.5 cm (4 x 2 5/8 inches). Lacks all free end papers and the last page of the Index. 254 pp. (of 255), front section of book with light stain, occasional foxing throughout. Fair. Hardcover.
Evidently the first and only edition of this hymnal (WorldCat). 163 hymns and one chorus, with index. Words only.
"John Huntsman" is a very common name during this time period in Ohio. The source of the record below suggests that this John Huntsman was the author of a hymnal, but was not definite about it. We give it to you with that caveat.
John Huntsman (1811-1863), b. Jacobsburg, Ohio; d. Glencoe, Ohio. At the age of 51 Huntsman enlisted as a musician with Company H, 61st Infantry Regiment, Ohio. He gave his birth year as 1814 and entered the ranks as 48 years old. He received a disability discharge on Oct. 11, 1862, at Washington, DC., and died 13 months later. There is a photo of him extant holding a fife while in uniform, with a grey beard, which may be found under his name at FindAGrave online.
With a signed provenance card from the music collection of A. Merril Smoak, Jr., DWS.
