The Why's and Wherefore's

Chicago: William Deering & Co, 1891. First Edition presumed. Wraps. Good. Scarce and unusual trade promotion by the manufacturer of farm equipment and implements, with much of the contents targeting children! 4to. 23 by 20.5 cm. Unpaginated, 32 pp., plus wraps. The tone is set by the chromolithographic cover, which shows children sitting on a branch with elves and gnomes raptly listening to a wizard. On the back cover is another chromo of a child wearing a mortalboard and pictures of a farmer with a horse drawn reaper and a line of parrots. The suggestion being made is that this quirky catalogue will bestow erudition even on a child who peruses it. The contents within have a mix of pieces -- some light poetry, factoid quizzes, informational articles -- somewhat akin to medicine promotions of the day. The primary material, of course, consists of pieces on Deering equipment, such as the giant mower, the light reaper, the chain drive, etc. These, it can be said, are written with a light touch, allowing for easy absorption and even a modicum of enjoyment. The staples that bound the catalogue are gone, so the leaves are loose. One leaf is still uncut. Minor chipping along the spine. Age toning, and moderate wear besides.