The inscription on the flyleaf of the scrapbook reads, "Robert Wilson, born 1842. Commenced writing 1859; enlisted in Navy 1852; in the army 1861. A book of my own making, written by Sunlight, gas light, and oil light; printed by many papers, at many prices to the author; praised, condemned, and sneered at; the poetry selected with two exceptions, and the entirety to my own liking. Have worked on the following; Chicago Journal, Detroit Post, Grand Rapids Eagle, Grand Rapids Democrat, Omaha Herald."
From the description of Robert Wilson scrapbook, 1868-1869. (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 368053933