BROADSIDE The Paupers, by John L. Zieber

Item Details

Rare mid-19th-century American song sheet titled The Paupers, written by John L. Zieber and set to the tune of “Ben Bolt.” Printed in two columns with ornamental border, this social ballad satirizes urban poverty, unemployment, drinking culture, and working-class camaraderie, framed as a dialogue with “Tom Brown.” Published by T. M. Scroggy, 443 Vine St. below 13th, Cincinnati, and distributed both wholesale and retail. A sharp example of wartime popular street literature with political and humorous overtones. Light foxing and minor toning; very good condition overall.

Related topics: Civil War era, street literature, American song sheets, temperance, poverty, satire, working-class history, popular music, John L. Zieber, Cincinnati printing, T. M. Scroggy, ephemera