Syracuse University Libraries’ Special Collections Research Center (SCRC) was recently gifted the George W. Hamilton Book Collection from George W. Hamilton ’53, G’54. The collection documents the history and practice of fine press printing in Europe, particularly Austria, and North America across its more than 1,300 volumes. From antiquarian books and festschrifts, type specimens and typography tomes to technical manuals on printing and binding, the titles included cover all aspects of the art, craft and trade of small presses.
The collection includes typefounders’ and printers’ specimen books, some of which date back to the 18th century. In addition to being informative and educational, many items include beautiful examples of letterpress printing with lithographs, woodcuts and other forms of illustration. The collection complements and enhances SCRC’s existing collection strengths in antiquarian books and illustration, printing and publishing.
“We are grateful to George W. Hamilton for his generous gift,” says Nicolette A. Dobrowolski, Director of the SCRC. “This collection, assembled over many years, reflects George’s deep passion for the history of printing and typography. We appreciate his decision to entrust this remarkable resource to his alma mater, recognizing the vital role that SCRC collections play both on our campus and in the broader research community.”
Hamilton, who resides in Austria, Vienna, has been a long-time supporter of the Libraries. He was an early funder of Sound Beat, the 90-second radio show highlighting audio collections within SCRC, including the Belfer Audio Archive. He also provided early sponsorship to support publication of the New York state series by the Syracuse University Press.
The acquisition of the George W. Hamilton Book Collection was made possible by the efforts of Dean David Seaman, Assistant Dean for Advancement Ron Thiele, SCRC Director Nicolette A. Dobrowolski, Assistant Director Lindy Smith, Curator of Early to pre-20th Century Irina Savinetskaya, Lead Curator and Curator of Plastics and Historical Artifacts Courtney Hicks, and graduate students Iman Jamison, Philomena Kern and Mary Visco.
