Century-Old Book Returned to Hamilton Library After 135 Years

A long-overdue book has found its way back to the Hamilton Public Library in Ontario, Canada, after being missing for an astonishing 135 years. The volume, titled The Excellent Woman, was checked out in the 1890s and was last borrowed by a Miss Charlotte Morgan, a teacher at Central School. The book was returned last week by Robert Moore, who discovered it in his late father’s home.

The library spokesperson confirmed that the book is a Victorian-era guide written by Anne Pratt, aimed at empowering Christian women. It was among the first volumes available when the library opened its doors in September 1890. According to Moore, the book was cataloged as book No. 54, with its title written by hand in ink. The return of this historical item has sparked considerable interest within the Hamilton community.

Moore, a history teacher, shared that the book had been gathering dust on a shelf since his father, Tom Moore, found it during renovations at Central School. “I remember him showing it to us, and I remember reading it,” he recalled. The book features beautiful illustrations and elaborate Victorian language, which captivated Moore during his childhood. He decided to return the book to the library after cleaning out his father’s house following his passing earlier this year.

A Journey Through Time

The book’s history is as intriguing as its content. Moore noted that Miss Charlotte Morgan had clearly left her mark in the book by signing her name on the back page. Research has revealed that she was a teacher at the school in the 1890s and passed away in 1942. The library’s spokesperson, Shelley McKay, expressed her astonishment at the discovery, stating, “We were more than a little surprised and taken aback by the discovery.”

The edition of The Excellent Woman returned to the library was published in 1852 in Boston, shortly after its initial release in England. McKay praised the book’s condition, remarking, “It’s in good shape. I should look so good at its age.” While the name of Anne Pratt does not appear on the title page, the introduction is credited to William B. Sprague, a well-known Protestant clergyman of the time.

Moore explained that Sprague’s name was used due to the societal stigma against women authors during that era. The book serves as a commentary on the Bible’s Book of Proverbs, offering advice on how women should conduct themselves. Moore described it as “very empowering for women” despite potential criticisms from modern feminist perspectives. Pratt criticized women who focused solely on marriage and social events, urging them to pursue more meaningful lives alongside their husbands.

Community Response and Future Plans

The recovery of Pratt’s book has generated excitement in Hamilton, prompting numerous inquiries from residents eager to see the historical artifact. McKay hopes this inspiring story will encourage others to search for old library materials in their possession. “We hope this will encourage people to look under their beds and in their closets and return those old library materials,” she stated.

Despite the book’s significance, it will not be returned to circulation. Instead, plans are in place for it to be preserved in the library’s archives, ensuring that this unique piece of history can be appreciated by future generations. The return of The Excellent Woman serves as a reminder of the enduring connection between literature, education, and the community it serves.