Way, W. Irving (Washington Irving), 1853-1931

Washington Irving Way was born in Ontario, and completed a two-year college program before taking a job with a railroad. He worked for various railroad companies in Canada and the United States, ultimately becoming secretary to the president of the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe railroad. He developed an interest in books, and, after losing his job as secretary when the president retired, he went to Chicago and became a bookseller. He actively contributed reviews and articles on the book trade, and was co-founder of the Duodecimos and the Caxton Club. He formed the fine-press publishing house Way & Williams; inspired by Kelmscott Press, the company published several notable books during its brief existence.

From the description of W. Irving Way letter to My dear Mr. Stone, 1901 June 27. (Pennsylvania State University Libraries). WorldCat record id: 76756323

Washington Irving Way (1853-1931) was an American author, literary agent and book distributor. He was a lifelong friend, business associate and agent for Thomas Bird Mosher (1852-1923), whose books he helped to distribute in California.

From the description of Letters of Washington Irving Way, 1894-1924. (Huntington Library, Art Collections & Botanical Gardens). WorldCat record id: 122551631

Chicago author and publisher,

Way was founding partner of the firm of Way & Williams, and responsible for much of its editorial policy.

From the description of Claude Stanley Wainwright papers, 1885-1929. (Newberry Library). WorldCat record id: 34986612

Chicago author and publisher.

Way was founding partner of the firm of Way & Williams, and was responsible for much of its editorial policy.

From the description of W. Irving Way papers, 1885-1931, bulk 1892-1900. (Newberry Library). WorldCat record id: 46640014