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Title: Antique 1906–1908 "The Wheat" Monthly Student Journals – Ritzville High School (Washington State) – Lot of 9
Description:
Up for sale is an incredibly rare, cohesive collection of eight (9) original editions of "The Wheat," a monthly student-led literary and news journal published by the students of Ritzville High School in Ritzville, Washington. Dating precisely between September 1906 and October 1908, these fragile paper booklets offer a fascinating, firsthand window into early 20th-century Pacific Northwest student culture, regional genealogy, and local history.
Provenance & Historical Context:
Nearly all of these booklets feature the faint, authentic period pencil signature of Bessie Jennings, with some featuring her graduation year notation ('07). Historical records indicate a Miss Bessie Jennings was a school teacher in the Adams County / Ritzville area during this exact era, meaning these pieces were hand-collected and preserved directly from the school system over 115 years ago.
Lot Includes the Following 8 Editions:
- September 1906 (Vol. II, No. 1) – Features architectural cover outlining school years 1905–1906.
- October 1906 (Vol. III, No. 1) – Rare Halloween-themed cover featuring a large smiling Jack-o'-lantern.
- March 1907 – Illustrated cover featuring a Gibson-era woman bracing against the wind.
- April 1907 – Text-focused design featuring an ornate ivy leaf border.
- October 1908 – Illustrated cover featuring a woman holding a prominent "RHS" pennant flag.
- February Edition – Valentine's Day themed cover with a heart vignette, signed by student artist Louise Bader.
- Winter / January Edition – Snowy cover scene of children sledding past a church, signed by student artist Louise Bader.
- Windmill Edition – Highly detailed woodcut-style cover illustration of a rural windmill, signed by student artist Louise Bader.
Condition Report:
These items are in good antique/vintage condition considering they are fragile paper items over 115 years old. Expect minor edge wear, natural paper toning/browning, and faint handling creases consistent with age. Binding staples are intact, and the pages remain highly readable. Pencil signatures from the original owner are present on the upper margins of several covers, adding excellent historical provenance.
Shipping:
Will be shipped securely packaged flat with cardboard backing to ensure they arrive safely without bending.
Please review photos carefully for item condition and description
