American children's periodicals, 1789-1872 alphabetical 1789-1820 1821-1840 1841-1860 1861-1872

American children's periodicals, 1821-1840
[NOTES: The prices quoted here are for a subscription to the periodical; throughout the period, subscribers also paid postage, which varied depending on the format of the periodical (newspapers were usually cheaper than magazines) and the distance it was sent.
• Unless noted, page size is the size when trimmed, usually for binding; page size is approximate. Page size is described as height by width, thus: [measurement in inches]" h x [measurement in inches]" w
about frequency: semimonthly: twice a month (usually 24 issues per year); biweekly: every other week (usually 26 issues per year); bimonthly: every other month (usually 6 issues per year)
about availability: selections or complete issues available for free on the Internet, or available at libraries on microform
abbreviations: APS, American Periodical Series (microfilm); AAS, American Antiquarian Society, MA; NUC, National Union Catalog; OCLC, database available at many institutions via WorldCat (information may also be available in the NUC); ULS, Union List of Serials in Libraries of the United States and Canada, ed. Winifred Gregory (New York, NY: H. W. Wilson Co., 1927)]

The Sunday Scholars' Magazine; or, Monthly Reward Book ; Jan 1821-

published: Boston, MA: Joseph W. Ingraham; publisher at 90 Court St.

frequency: monthly

description: 24 pp.?; page size, 8.25" h
• Republication of London periodical

source of information: OCLC

The Juvenile Repository ; 1822

edited: H. Johnson; W. R. Moore

published: Lancaster, PA

frequency: weekly: Saturday

description: $1/ year

source of information: Dawn

bibliography: Notice. The Dawn 1 (17 June 1822): 25-26.
• Edwin Charles Strohecker. "American Juvenile Literary Periodicals, 1789-1826." PhD diss. Michigan, 1969.

The Literary Kaleidoscope ; 1822 (last issue, Sept)

edited: M. C. Hull

published: Wheeling, VA (now Wheeling, WV)

frequency: monthly

description: 25¢/ year

source of information: Dawn

bibliography: Notice. The Dawn 1 (17 June 1822): 25-26.
• Notice. The Dawn 1 (16 July 1822): 41.
• Edwin Charles Strohecker. "American Juvenile Literary Periodicals, 1789-1826." PhD diss. Michigan, 1969.

Olio ; 1822

edited: John H. Wood

published: Cincinnati, OH: Samuel S. Brooks & John H. Wood.

frequency: semimonthly

description: Page size, 10.5" h

source of information: Dawn; OCLC

bibliography: The Dawn 1 (1 July 1822): 34-35.

The Dawn ; 1 May-1 Oct, 1 Nov 1822

cover/masthead: 1822

edited by: Lewis Wilson

published: Wilmington, DE: Lewis Wilson; publisher at 105 Market St.

frequency: 1 May-1 Oct, semimonthly; 1 Nov, monthly

description: 1 May-1 Oct, 8 pp.; 1 Nov, 12 pp.; page size, 10.75" h x 6.5" w; price, 75¢/ year

relevant information: Wilson's father published two newspapers

relevant quotes: Introduction: "In presenting to the public the first number of the Dawn, it is deemed necessary tos et forth the object in view; and considering the youth of the editor, it becomes doubly so. The object of our paper is to afford the youth of this Borough and vicinity, an opportunity of bringing into action those latent talents which the editor is well persuaded too often remain uncultivated, for want of a publication of this kind. The importance and utility of such a publication must be evident to every reflecting mind. It will be the means of exciting an emulation for literary superiority; thus bringing into action, talents which otherwise might have long lain dormant; thereby preparing us for the occupancy of stations in life, to which we may in our maturer years be called." [1 (1 May 1822): 1]

• Wilson began the magazine when an amateur publication was failing: "[T]he editors of the "Juvenile Gazette' were becoming weary of their vocation--the paper was dwindling into nothingness, and they were about relinquishing it entirely.... We beheld the dawn of genious [sic] about to be smothered, and our fellow-youth destitute [o]f a suitable opportunity of exercising their talents and bringing their views to light; thus, in all probability, depriving our country of the services of men who might be her brightest ornaments." ["Address to Our Readers," 1 (1 Nov 1822): 89] (The Gazette was a traditional amateur paper with limited subscribership, since only one copy of an issue was created: "The communications when written were forwarded to the Editor, who transcribed them upon a sheet of paper, and when done, it was handed round among the members for perusal, and finally to the Editor for preservation." [Dawn 1 (1 May 1822): 3] There were 41 issues. [Dawn 1 (17 June 1822): 26])

• Launching a periodical was financially precarious: "Postmasters at a distance, and persons in our immediate neighborhood who hold subscription papers for the "Dawn" are respectfully solicited to forward them to the Editor immediately. The subscription is yet too small to defray the expense of publication, and we are anxious to know our fate; whether we shall be the means of cultivating and enlightening the minds of the youth of Delaware, or whether they shall be permitted to grope their way in ignorance." [1 (1 May 1822): 2]

• Publishing a periodical was financially perilous: "More than three Months have elapsed since the commencement of this publication, and already are our prospects of future usefulenss, and the anticipated splendor of the DAWN, becoming clouded by many difficulties which we (thoughtless youth) little expected to encounter. Just as we imagined our efforts to eradicate the demon IGNORANCE from the minds of our fellow-youth, by endeavoring to instil into them a love of reading, and "a desire to excel in composition," and were about realizing as we vainly supposed, the fulfilment of our expectations, the idea occurred to us to "sit down and count the cost" of our establishment. We did so--and notwithstanding we made a calculation of our expenses previous to our undertaking, we fell infinitely short of what they really are. The reason of this was because we calculated too largely upon the increase of our subscription list, and though it has accumulated one third since the commencement, it is yet too small to defray the actual expense. It is not our intention to enter into a detail of the merits (if it has any) of the publication;--it has been before my fellow-youth long enough for them to determine whether it is worth patronizing or not--whether they will endeavor to obtain more subscribers, and thereby prevent its descending below the horizon, which must inevitably take place at the expiration of three Months, unless a sufficient increase of patronage is received." ["An Appeal to Our Reader," 1 (16 Aug 1822): 57]

• Concluding: publishing could be financially and socially disastrous: "Flushed with the idea of success, we pursued 'the even tenor of our way' for the space of three Months, when we sat down to count the cost of our establishment--found that it exceeded our income--addressed our readers on the subject--and although our subscription list has increased since, it is yet too small to defray the expense, and the Dawn which we once anticipated would shine forth in its meridian splendor, has descended below the horizon, adding another to the already numerous instances of the folly of depending upon the assistance of those who flatter in the time of prosperity, but in the hour of adversity will desert you, and leave you to drag out a miserable existance [sic] in penury, want and starvation. We are determined that this shall not be the case with us, and will therefore abandon that which would in time, lead to this direful condition. ... To all our readers we wish happiness and prosperity--may they shun the paths of vice, and cultivate every virtue that is calculated to render them ornaments to society in this world, and prepare them for a blessed immortality in the world to come." ["Address to Our Readers" 1 (1 Nov 1822): 89-90]

source of information: APS reel 100; Strohecker

available: APS II (1800-1850), reel 100

bibliography; Edwin Charles Strohecker. "American Juvenile Literary Periodicals, 1789-1826." PhD diss. Michigan, 1969.

Juvenile Museum ; 16 Ninth month (16 Sept) 1822-27 Ninth month (27 Sept) 1823

edited by: Horton J. Howard

published: Mt. Pleasant, OH; Ezekiel Harris & Co. Printed: Elisha Bates

frequency: 16 Ninth month (Sept) 1822-1 Second month (Feb) 1823, semimonthly; 1 Third month (March)-27 Ninth month (Sept), monthly; 1 vol/ year

description: 16 Ninth month (Sept) 1822-1 Second month (Feb) 1823, 8 pp.; 1 Third month (March)-27 Ninth month (Sept), 16 pp. • Price, 50¢/ year; page size, 6" h x 4" w

relevant quote: Prospectus: Published by "The Seminary Range Literary Association. The object of the editors is to present a sheet of innocent and interesting matter, for the improvement of the Junior Class of Society, of both sexes." (in Dawn)

source of information: Strohecker; AAS catalog; OCLC

bibliography; Notice. The Dawn 1 (2 Sept 1822): 65.
• Edwin Charles Strohecker. "American Juvenile Literary Periodicals, 1789-1826." PhD diss. Michigan, 1969.

Youth's Instructer and Guardian ; 1823-1829 • Youth's Instructer and Sabbath School and Bible Class Assistant ; 1830-1832

published: New York, NY: N. Bangs & T. Mason for Methodist Episcopal Church, 1825; printed by Azor Hoyt.
• New York, NY: J. Emory & B. Waugh, for the Methodist Episcopal Church, April 1830-March 1831; printed by J. Collord

frequency: monthly • 1830: 1 vol/ year; volume begins with April issue

description: 1825, 1830: 36 pp.; page size, 6 7/8" h x 4" w. Price, 1827: $1/ year; $1.25 "half bound in calf"
• New series, vol 1 (1829); vol 2, numbers 1-12 (April 1830-March 1831)

relevant quotes: The work was intended for older children: "The Youth's Instructer and Guardian may be introduced into Sunday schools, for the benefit of larger scholars, as a reading and reward book...." [Prospectus. The Child's Magazine 1 (July 1827): inside front cover; cover p. 2]

• It was "designed for the instruction and entertainment of the rising generation. Its plan comprehends Scripture Biography; Memoirs of Young Persons; Juvenile Obituaries; Familiar Essays; Dialogues, or Narratives, on Religious[,] Moral, and Miscellaneous subjects; Anecdotes; brief Historical Compilations; Extracts from interesting Books of Travels, &c.; Articles of Natural History and Philosophy; Juvenile Letters; and Poetry, original and selected." [advertisment. The Child's Magazine 1 (July 1827): back cover; cover p. 4]

source of information: 1825 vol; April 1830-March 1831 vol; Child's Magazine; AAS catalog

The Sabbath School Repository and Teacher's Assistant ; Jan-Dec 1823

edited by: E. B. Coleman

published: New Haven, CT: E. B. Coleman, 1823.

frequency: monthly

description: 24 pp.

relevant quote: On the close of the magazine:
      Number Twelve! sure enough--our First Volume's complete.
      Then on such an occasion 'tis certainly meet
      We should take a respectful farewell of our friends,
      With thanks that their favour our efforts attends."
            ["Number Twelve." 1 (Dec 1823): 286]

source of information: APS reel 205

available: APS II (1800-1850), reel 205

The Monitor ; Jan 1823-Dec 1824

edited: H. Wilbur

frequency: monthly; 1 vol/ year

published: Boston, MA: Cummings, Hilliard, & Co., Jan 1823-Dec 1824.

description: 36 pp.; large duodecimo; page size, 7" h x 4" w. Price: $1/ year, if paid in advance; $1.25, if not paid in advance
• Intended for "youths over 15 years of age" [prospectus; 1823 vol]
• The first issue (Jan 1823) was reprinted at least twice.

merged with: The Guardian (Jan 1819-Dec 1824), to form The Guardian and Monitor ; 1825-1828

relevant quote: The merger with The Guardian was announced in Dec 1824: "Believing that important advantages would result from an union of the Monitor and Guardian, the Editors and Publishers of the two works have made arrangements for their union after the present volume. The particular excellencies of each plan will be retained and original articles from both the Editors will continue to be inserted. The terms will be the same as before, and subscribers to either will be considered as patrons of the united work, which will be issued monthly from Boston and New Haven, the first of the month." ["Preface." Monitor. 1824 bound volume]

source of information: 1823-1824 vols

available: APS II (1800-1850), reel 143

Teacher's Offering; or Sabbath's Scholar's Magazine ; Nov 1823-1824 • Teacher's Offering; or Sunday Scholar's Magazine ; 1825 • The Youth's Friend, and Scholar's Magazine ; 1826-1843?

published: Philadelphia, PA: American Sunday School Union.

frequency: monthly

description: 16 pp.; 24mo; page size, 5.5" h x 3.25" w; price, 25¢/ year • Circulation (from Mott): 1827, 10,000

source of information: 1829-1838, scattered bound volumes; OCLC; AAS catalog; Mott; Kelly

bibliography: "Periodical Works for Children." American Journal of Education. 2 (December 1827): 750. online
• Frank Luther Mott. A History of American Magazines. New York: D. Appleton and Company, 1930. Vol. 1: 144.
Children's Periodicals of the United States, ed. R. Gordon Kelly. Westport, CT & London, England: Greenwood Press, 1984.

Sabbath School Visitant ; June 1824-Feb 1826

published: Utica, NY: n.p.; printed by Merrell & Colwell, 1824-1826.

frequency: monthly; 1 vol/ year
• Dec 1824 and Feb 1825 had two issues (15 & 25 Dec; 15 & 24 Feb): "Our patrons cannot have regretted more deeply than ourselves, the necessity of our having been compelled, for the last three months, to publish two numbers in one. It arose from the fact of our devoting more time to the work than was originally intended, by which means, we trust, it has been made more useful." [1 (Feb 1825): 92]

description: 8 pp. • Sept 1825, 20 pp.

merged with: The Juvenile Magazine (1827-1828) to form Sabbath School Visitant and Juvenile Magazine (1829)

source of information: APS reel 1124; NUC

available: APS II (1800-1850), reel 1124

The Moral and Religious Repository, or Youth's Christian Monitor (also Youth's Christian Monitor) ; 9 July 1824-

published: Montrose, PA: J. Catlin.

description: Page size, 8.5" h

source of information: AAS catalog

The Guardian and Monitor ; Jan 1825-Dec 1828

cover/masthead: 1825, 1828

edited: E. B. Coleman; H. Wilbur

published: New Haven, CT: Nathan Whiting, 1825-1828.

frequency: monthly: 1st week of the month

description: 36 pp.; page size, 6 7/8" h x 4" w
• Price, 1825-1826: $1/ year, in advance; $1.25/ year, paid after three months
• 1825 marked "New series," vol 7

relevant quote: "The friends of the Guardian, and the Christian public in general, are informed that the Monitor a monthly Magazine, published in Boston by the Rev. H. Wilbur, for the benefit of Youth, is hereafter to be incorporated with the Guardian and published at this office, under the title of "THE GUARDIAN and MONITOR." [1 (Feb 1825): back cover]

continues: The Guardian, or Youth's Religious Instructor ; Jan 1819-Dec 1824 • The Monitor ; Jan 1823-Dec 1824

source of information: 1826 vol; Feb 1828 issue; APS 112 & 881

available: APS II (1800-1850), reel 112 & 881

bibliography: John B. Crume. "Children's Magazines, 1826-1857." Journal of Popular Culture 7 (1973): 698-706.

Children's Friend ; Jan 1826-1827?

published: Albany, NY: Webster & Wood.
• Albany, NY: E. & E. Hosford, Feb-Sept 1827.

frequency: monthly

description: 24 pp; page size, 4.25" h x 2.5" w

source of information: Jan 1826 issue; OCLC; AAS catalog

bibliography: "Periodical Works for Children." American Journal of Education. 2 (December 1827): 750. online

The Juvenile Miscellany ; Sept 1826-Feb 1836; April 1836

cover/masthead: 1827 | 1828 | 1829 | 1831 | 1835

edited by: 1826-Aug 1834, Lydia Maria Child
• Sept 1834-April 1836, Sarah Josepha Hale

published: Boston, MA: John Putnam, 1826-1827.
• Boston, MA: John Putnam and Wait, Greene, & Co., 1827-1828; Putnam at Marsh and Capen's Bookstore, 362 Washington St.; Wait, Greene & Co., at 13 Court St. (May 1827; Jan 1828)
• Boston, MA: Putnam & Hunt, 1828-1831; Putnam & Hunt at 41 Washington St. (Jan & March 1829).
• Philadelphia, PA: Thomas T. Ash, Jan & March 1829.
• Boston, MA: Carter, Hendee, & Babcock, Sept/Oct 1831.
• Boston, MA: Carter & Hendee, 1831-1834.
• Boston, MA: E. R. Broaders, 1834-1836; Broaders at 127 Washington St. (July 1835)

frequency: 1826-1834: bimonthly; 2 vol/ year. 1834-1836: monthly

description: 1826-1833, 108 pp.; duodecimo; page size, 5.75" h x 3.25" w; price $2/ year.
• 1835, 54 pp.; page size, 5.75" h x 3.25" w
• No March 1836 issue
• Vol. 1, no. 1 (Sept 1826)-v. 4 (July 1828); new series, v. 1 (Sept 1828)-v. 6 (Aug 1831); 3d series, v. 1 (Sept 1831)-v. 6 (Aug 1834); 4th series, v. 1 (Sept 1834)-v. 3 (Dec 1836)

relevant quotes:
• In the first issue, the editor appeared a bit diffident: "[T]hough I have great affection for you, and the kindest interest in your welfare and improvement, perhaps I may not be always able to afford you amusement and instruction. I have, in some measure, forgotten what pleased me, when I was a child, and it is difficult for me to imagine how I should think or feel, if I were as young as you now are. You, my dear young friends, shall be my critics: What you find, neither affords you amusement or does you good, I shall think is badly written." ["Address"; p. iv]

• Child's farewell as editor: "After conducting the Miscellany for eight years, I am now compelled to bid a reluctant and most affectionate farewell to my little readers. May God bless you, my young friends, and impress deeply upon your hearts the conviction that all true excellence and happiness consists in living for others, not for yourselves. ... I intend hereafter to write other books for your amusement and instruction; and I part from you with less pain, because I hope that God will enable me to be a medium of use to you, in some other form than the Miscellany." ["Note"]

source of information: 1826-1835 scattered issues and bound volumes; APS II, reels 389-390; AAS catalog; Kelly

available: APS II (1800-1850), reel 389-390

bibliography: "Address to the Young." The Juvenile Miscellany. 1 (September 1826): iii-iv.
• Notice. American Journal of Education, 1 (September 1826): 569. online
Masonic Mirror and Mechanic's Intelligencer (Boston), 2 (September 9, 1826): 294. online
• Review. Christian Examiner, 3 (September & October 1826): 427-428. online
• Review. American Journal of Education, 1 (October 1826): 640. online
• Review. Christian Intelligencer & Eastern Chronicle, 8 (5 Dec 1826: 195. online
• Review. American Journal of Education, 2 (March 1827): 191. online
• "Periodical Works for Children." American Journal of Education. 2 (December 1827): 750. online
• Review. Christian Register (Boston), 7 (8 March 1828): 40; reprinted from the American & Gazette. online
• Review. Ladies' Magazine, 1 (July 1828): 336. online
• Review. New-York Mirror, and Ladies' Literary Gazette, 6 (2 Aug 1828): 25-26. online
• Review. American Annals of Education, 4 (July & August 1829): 383. online
• Review. Ladies' Magazine, 2 (September 1829): 440. online
• "Juvenile Miscellany." Christian Watchman, 14 (3 April 1833): 55. online
• "Items for Youth." Rose Bud. 1 (15 June 1833): 167. online
• "Note." The Juvenile Miscellany. 6 (July/August 1834): 323.
• Notice. Southern Rose Bud, 3 (18 October 1834): 27. online
• Mabel F. Altstetter. "Early American Magazines for Children." Peabody Journal of Education 19 (Nov 1941); p. 131-132.
• Betty Longenecker Lyon. "A History of Children's Secular Magazines Published in the United States from 1789-1899." PhD diss. Johns Hopkins, 1942; 54-61.
• Edwin Charles Strohecker. "American Juvenile Literary Periodicals, 1789-1826." PhD diss. Michigan, 1969.
• Rex Burns. Success in America: The Yeoman Dream and the Industrial Evolution. Amherst, MA: University of Massachusetts Press, 1976; pp. 19-26.
• Jill Delano Sweiger. "Conceptions of Children in American Juvenile Periodicals: 1830-1870." PhD diss. Rutgers University, 1977.
Children's Periodicals of the United States, ed. R. Gordon Kelly. Westport, CT & London, England: Greenwood Press, 1984.
• Gillian Avery. Behold the Child: American Children and Their Books, 1621-1922. Baltimore, MD; Johns Hopkins University Press, 1994; pp. 82-85.
• Carolyn L. Karcher. "Lydia Maria Child and the Juvenile Miscellany: The Creation of an American Children's Literature." In Periodical Literature in Nineteenth-Century America, ed. Kenneth M. Price and Susan Belasco Smith. Charlottesville, VA: University of Virginia Press, 1995.
• Holly Keller. "Juvenile Antislavery Narrative and Notions of Childhood." Children's Literature, 24 (1996): 86-100.
• Etsuko Taketani. "The 'Omnipresent Aunt' and the Social Child: Lydia Maria Child's Juvenile Miscellany." Children's Literature, 27 (1999): 22-39.

The Baptist Tract and Youth's Magazine (also The Baptist Tract Magazine) ; 1827-Dec 1835

published: Philadelphia, PA: Baptist General Tract Society.

frequency: monthly

description: 1832: 24 pp.; page size, 7" h x 4.5" w

source of information: April-Dec 1832 bound issues; OCLC

Youth's Gazette ; 13 Jan 1827-

published: Boston, MA: Thomas B. Wait & Son.

frequency: monthly

description: Page size, 11.25" h

source of information: AAS catalog

The Juvenile Magazine ; 27 Jan 1827-Dec 1828

published: Utica, NY: Western Sunday School Union.

frequency: monthly; 1 vol/ year

description: 16 pp.; page size, 5.5" h x 3.25" w

merged with: Sabbath School Visitant (1824-1826) to form Sabbath School Visitant and Juvenile Magazine (1829)

source of information: 1828 vol; AAS catalog; NUC

bibliography: American Journal of Education 2 (November 1827): 699-700. online
• "Periodical Works for Children." American Journal of Education. 2 (December 1827): 750. online

Youth's Companion ; 16 April, 6 June 1827-2 Aug 1834 • Youth's Companion and Sabbath School Recorder ; 9 Aug 1834-13 May 1836 • The Youth's Companion ; 20 May 1836-Sept 1929

cover/masthead: 6 June 1827-2 Aug 1834, 20 May 1836-8 May 1840, 14 May 1841-14 Jan 1842 | 15 May 1840-7 May 1841 | 21 Jan 21, 1842-2 May 1844 | 9 May 1844-26 April 1849 | 3 May 1849-25 Dec 1856 | 1 Jan 1857-20 Dec 1866 | 27 Dec 1866-31 Dec 1868 | Jan 1869-Dec 1872

edited by: 1827-1856, Nathaniel Willis
• 1857-1899, Daniel S. Ford

published: Boston, MA: Nathaniel Willis & Asa Rand, 16 April, 6 June 1827-13 April 1831.
• Boston, MA: Nathaniel Willis, 20 April 1831-25 Dec 1856; at 127 Washington St., 20 April 1831-14 March 1832; at 134 Washington St., 21 March 1832-26 Dec 1832; at 14 Water St., 2 Jan 1833-22 Feb 1834 (address misprinted 16 Water St., 9 Jan 1833?); at 19 Water St., 1 March 1834-8 April 1836; at 9 Cornhill, 15 April-26 Aug 1836; at 11 Cornhill, 2 Sept 1836-26 July 1849; at 22 Cornhill, 2 Aug 1849-25 Dec 1856.
• Portland, ME: William Hyde, 9 Aug 1834-7 Oct 1836.
• Boston, MA: Olmstead & Co., 1 Jan 1857-1867.
• Boston, MA: Perry Mason & Co., 1 Aug 1867-1929.

frequency: weekly

description: 1827-1868: 4 pp.; folio • 1869-1872, 8 pp.; quarto

• Prices: 16 April 1827: $1.50/ year in advance; $2/ year paid at end of year; "If an extensive subscription should be obtained, the price will be reduced." • 6 June 1827-1861, $1/ year • 1863, $1/ year in advance; $1.25 thereafter: "We are forced to make this rule, because of the greatly increased cost of paper on which to print the Companion. We cannot afford to make any bad debts. The cost of publishing the Companion this year will be greater ever before. [37 (8 Jan 1863): 6] • 1865-1868, $1.25/ year • 1869-1872, $1.50/ year

• Page size expanded beginning with the issue for 30 May 1828 • Page size untrimmed, 1831-1833, 1840-1841, 13.5" h x 11" w • 1844-1850, 15.5" h x 10.5" w • 1851-1852, 13" h x 11" w • 1853-1856, 15.75" h x 11" w • Page size untrimmed, 1861, 19.5" h x 14" w • 1863, 17.5" h x 12" w • 1865-1868, 17" h x 11.5" w • 1869-1872, 14.5" h x 10" w

• Circulation (from magazine): 1835, "two thousand families"; 1857, 4800; 1871, 70,000; 1872 (from Robert Merry's Museum), 100,000

relevant quotes:
• At age 79, Nathaniel Willis wrote of the founding: "In 1826 Mr. Asa Rand was my partner. We had a regular children's department in the Recorder. We found all the children and youth interested in it. This suggested the idea of a children's paper. We issued proposals for the Youth's Companion, and the number of subscribers which came in induced us to commence in June, 1827. I had the care of the Companion, while Mr. Rand had care of the Recorder until Mr. Rand withdrew in 1830, when I had control of both papers until 1844; then the Recorder was sold to Rev. Martin Moore. I retained the Companion until 1857, when it was sold to Olmstead & Co." [in Matthews; p. 135]

• A specimen issue was published in 16 April 1827. Prospectus: "The Editors of the Boston Recorder propose to publish a paper for the special use of Children and Youth, entitled Youth's Companion; of which this sheet is intended as a specimen, both in respect to paper and type, and also the general quality of the matter it will contain. We have several reasons for making this proposal. We could about half fill the Recorder with interesting selections, adapted to our juvenile readers, from the various publications which we receive and peruse. Many of these are too valuable to be thrown by, and circulated no more; but we can by no means spare room to enlarge our Children's and Youth's Departments so as to admit one half of them. ... Another reason is, that the capacities of children, and the peculiar situation and duties of youth, require select and appropriate reading. And while adults have various periodical publications, which they consider highly valuable, the younger part of the community seem to require that the same means be prepared for their gratification. If to these we add one reason more, the propriety of the step we have taken will be apparent. This is a day of peculiar care of Youth. Christians feel that their children must be trained up for Christ. Patriots and philanthropists are making rapid improvements in every branch of education. Literature, science, liberty and religion are extending in the earth. The human mind is becoming emancipated from the bondage of ignorance and superstition. Our children are born to higher destinies than their fathers.... Let their minds be formed, their hearts prepared, and their characters moulded for the scenes and the duties of a brighter day. The contents of the proposed work will be miscellaneous, though articles of a religious character will be most numerous. It will not take the form of discussion, or argument, and controversy will be entirely excluded. It will aim to inculcate truth by brief narratives, familiar illustrations, short biographies, and amusing anecdotes." [1 (16 April 1827): 1]

• Lowering the subscription price for the second issue was a gamble: "We are conscious that we run a risk in reducing the price so low as our conditions state; but we do it in the confidence that the subscription will eventually be sufficient to afford us remuneration." ["Price Reduced." 1 (6 June 1827): 7]

• On the Companion's eighth birthday, readers were given a glimpse of how their magazine was put together: "Where was it born? In the office of the Boston Recorder--and that has always been its home. ... There it receives visiters, and letters from its friends. Some of the visiters' names are London Youth's Magazine, London Teachers' Offering, London Child's Companion ... and besides these, it has many visiters from several States in America. From these visiters and the letters which are frequently received from friends, it gathers all the narratives, stories and anecdotes, which it relates from week to week. When the Companion has collected as many stories as it can remember, it sets off on its journeys, and visits upwards of two thousand families...." ["Birth-Day of the Youth's Companion." 8 (17 April 1835): 193]

• Paper costs during the Civil War necessitated a smaller page size: "Three or four of the subscribers of the Companion have complained by letter to us, because its size has been reduced since the great rise in the cost of white paper. ... The Companion could not be issued on a sheet the size of that used last year, at a less price than $1,50. The white paper on which it is now printed, should we be obliged to pay the present market prices through the year, would cost nearly one thousand dollars more in the aggregate, for the twelve months of 1863, than the editions of the larger sheet last year. ... We suppose that most of our readers have noticed that the Companion is now printed on finer type than was used on the larger sheet. Subscribers, therefore, get fully as large an amount of reading as formerly. All they have lost by the change is, an extra inch or two of printed paper." [37 (26 Feb 1863): 34]

• Currency could also make business a challenge: "We shall feel greatly obliged to our subscribers in New York and the Western States, if in forwarding money in payment of their subscriptions to the Companion, they will send us United States Notes or Currency. By doing so they will save us the cost of exchange, which is quite heavy." [37 (5 March 1863): 38]

• The Companion was sold in 1867: "Our subscribers will notice the change that has been made in the name of the publishing firm of the Companion. Mr. Olmstead has sold his interest in the paper, and is no longer connected with it." ["To Subscribers." 40 (1 Aug 1867): 122]

absorbed: The Juvenile Watchman ; 8 March, 26 April 1833-1835 • Robert Merry's Museum ; Feb 1841-Nov 1872

absorbed by: American Boy--Open Road ; 1919-1954

source of information: 1831-1872, scattered issues & bound volumes; APS II, reel 1546-1572; AAS catalog; Kelly

available: APS II (1800-1850), reel 1546-1572
Youth's Companion, ed. Lovell Thompson. Boston, MA: Houghton Mifflin Co., 1954.
• excerpts in Companions of Our Youth: Stories by Women for Young People's Magazines, 1865-1900, ed. Jane Benardete and Phyllis Moe. NY: Frederick Ungar Publishing Co., 1980.
excerpts online

bibliography: "New Year's Present." Boston Recorder. 15 (8 December 1830): 194. online
• "Birth-Day of the Youth's Companion." Youth's Companion. 8 (17 April 1835): 193.
• Harriet L. Matthews. "Children's Magazines." Bulletin of Bibliography. 1 (April 1899): 133-6.
• C. A. Stephens. "When The Youth's Companion was Young," in Stories of My Home Folks. Boston: Perry Mason Company, 1926.
• Goldie Platner Merrill. "The Development of American Secular Juvenile Magazines: A Study of the Educational Significance of Their Content." PhD diss. U of Washington, 1938.
• Frank Luther Mott. "Youth's Companion," in A History of American Magazines: vol 2, 1850-1865. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 1938. pp. 262-274.
• Eleanor Weakley Nolen. "Nineteenth Century Children's Magazines." The Horn Book Magazine. 15 (January/February 1939): 55-60.
• Mabel F. Altstetter. "Early American Magazines for Children." Peabody Journal of Education 19 (Nov 1941); p. 133-134.
• Betty Longenecker Lyon. "A History of Children's Secular Magazines Published in the United States from 1789-1899." PhD diss. Johns Hopkins, 1942; pp. 62-74.
• R. Gordon Kelly. Mother was a Lady. Westport, CT: Greenwood Press, 1974.
• Rex Burns. Success in America: The Yeoman Dream and the Industrial Evolution. Amherst, MA: University of Massachusetts Press, 1976; pp. 51-87.
• Jill Delano Sweiger. "Conceptions of Children in American Juvenile Periodicals: 1830-1870." PhD diss. Rutgers University, 1977.
Children's Periodicals of the United States, ed. R. Gordon Kelly. Westport, CT & London, England: Greenwood Press, 1984.
• Gillian Avery. Behold the Child: American Children and Their Books, 1621-1922. Baltimore, MD; Johns Hopkins University Press, 1994; pp. 82-83.
• Lorinda Cohoon. "Festive Citizenships: Independence Celebrations in New England Children's Periodicals and Series Books." Children's Literature Association Quarterly 31 (Summer 2006): 132-153.
• Lorinda B. Cohoon. "Educating Boys for American Citizenship: Jacob Abbott's Contributions to the Youth's Companion," in Serialized Citizenships: Periodicals, Books, and American Boys, 1840-1911. Lanham, MD: The Scarecrow Press, 2006; pp. 1-29.

The Child's Magazine ; July 1827-after 1848

cover/masthead: July 1827

published: New York, NY: Bangs & Emory, for the Sunday School Union of the Methodist Episcopal Church, 1827.
• New York, NY: T. Mason & G. Lane, for the Sunday School Union of the Methodist Episcopal Church, 1837.
• New York, NY: G. Lane & P. P. Sandford, for the Sunday School Union of the Methodist Episcopal Church, 1842.
• New York, NY: Lane & Tippett, 1848; printed by Joseph Longking.

frequency: 8 times/ year. Intended originally to be monthly.

description: 16 pp.; page size, 5.25" h x 3.5" w. • Price, 1827: 8 or more copies, 25¢/ year
• In 1837, vol 1 was reprinted as if it were a new periodical. The volume for 1848 (vol 11) apparently was originally a volume published around 1832; it contains pieces dated 1830 and 1831, and a story from the Rose Bud, published in Charleston, SC, from 11 Aug 1832 to 17 Aug 1839.

• Methodist Episcopal focus

relevant quotes: Prospectus: "It is intended to embrace in this little work short practical essays, anecodtes, narratives, accounts of the conversion and happy deaths of children, facts illustrative of the conduct of Providence, sketches of natural history, poetry, &c. The constant aim in conducting this little work, will be to lead the infant mind to the knowledge of God our Saviour. ... The plan of this work will not at all interfere with the Youth's Instructer and Guardian; nor is it intended, in any case, to supersede it; being designed, as its title intimates, for younger children." [1 (July 1827): inside front cover; cover p. 2]

• The editors were accountable to a higher authority: "Dear little Readers,--The editors of this Magazine are personally unknown to you, and perhaps in this world we may never see your faces. Yet we feel thankful to God, that through the medium of the press we can meet you once a month, and converse with you about those things which relate to your peace and happiness here, and to your everlasting joy and felicity hereafter. And while we bless God for this great and precious privilege, let us remember that we shall one day appear before him--the editors to give an account for every word which they put into htis book, and you for the manner in which you read, and the improvement you make." ["Introductory Address." 1 (July 1827): 1]

source of information: 1827 issue; 1848 bound volume; OCLC; AAS catalog

bibliography: Mabel F. Altstetter. "Early American Magazines for Children." Peabody Journal of Education 19 (Nov 1941); p. 132.

Juvenile Gazette ; 24 Nov 1827-15 Nov 1828

cover/masthead: 1827-1828

edited by: Oliver Kendall, jr

published: Providence, RI: Oliver Kendall, jr, 1827. Providence, RI: H. H. Brown, 1828.

frequency: 24 Nov 1827-10 May 1828, weekly. "Printed every Saturday" (1 Dec 1827)

description: 24 Nov 1827-10 May 1828: 4 pp.; page size, 4" h x 2 5/8" w; "Those who wish to take this paper can leave there [sic] names at O. Kendall's Book Store, 2 Market Sq." [24 Nov 1827; p. 3]

• Price, 24 Nov 1827-2 Feb 1828: 2¢/month, "payable in advance" (1 Dec 1827). Price, 9 Feb 1828-10 May 1828: 25¢/year, "payable quarterly in advance."

continues: O. Kendall, sr, had published the Juvenile Gazette ; Nov 1819-Jan 1820?

source of information: 24 Nov 1827-10 May 1828 vol; AAS catalog

available: excerpts online

bibliography: Betty Longenecker Lyon. "A History of Children's Secular Magazines Published in the United States from 1789-1899." PhD diss. Johns Hopkins, 1942; 75-76.
• Gillian Avery. Behold the Child: American Children and Their Books, 1621-1922. Baltimore, MD; Johns Hopkins University Press, 1994; p. 81.

Youth's Journal ; 1828-?

edited by: Asa Lyman

published: New York, NY: Asa Lyman.

frequency: weekly

source of information: OCLC

The Scholar's Quarterly Journal (vol 2 as The Scholar's Journal) ; Feb 1828-15 Nov 1829

edited by: Emerson Davis, "preceptor of Westfield Academy"

published: Westfield, MA: Emerson Davis; printed by press of the Westfield Register

frequency: vol 1: quarterly

description: Vol 1 is Feb-Nov 1828: title: The Scholar's Quarterly Journal; 4 issues; page size, 8.5" h
• Vol 2 is 15 Jan-15 Nov 1829: title: The Scholar's Journal; 8 issues; page size, 8.5" h

source of information: NUC; OCLC

The Hive ; 27 Sept 1828-20 Sept 1830

cover/masthead: 1829-1830

published: Salem, MA: W. & S. B. Ives, 18 March-9 Sept 1829; Ives at #6 Old Paved St. • Salem, MA: W. & S. B. Ives, 12 Sept 1829-20 Sept 1830; Ives at Old Paves St.

frequency: weekly; 1 vol/ year.

description: 1828-9 Sept 1829: 4 pp.; page size untrimmed, 6" h x 4" w; price, 30¢/ year, "in advance." [18 March 1829; p. 104] Agents: E. Gunnison (Danvers); John Gilley (Marblehead); John Ireson (Lynn); Benjamin H. Ives (Boston)

• 12 Sept 1829-20 Sept 1830: 4 pp.; page size, 9" h x 5.25" w; price, 30¢/ year, "in advance." [3 Oct 1829; p. 5]

relevant quotes:
• Intended "to present to the juvenile reader a miniature copy of a newspaper .... The selections ... will be strictly confined to those articles, which combine instruction with innocent amusement." [in Lyon; p. 82]

• The 12 Sept 1829 issue was a specimen of the new format: "It will be seen that we have enlarged the Hive to more than double its former size, and have put it at the low price of 50 cents per annum, payable on the delivery of the next number. It is intended to give it a more miscellaneous character than the last volume, so that it may suit the tastes and wants of readers in general. The present Number is published as a specimen, and if the encouragement shall warrant we will commence its regular publication on the 3d of October next. Those who wish to subscribe will please leave their names at the Book-Store of W. & S. B. Ives, Old Paved street." (12 Sept 1829; p. 4)

• On the last issue: "This number closes the 2d volume of the Hive--and its publication will cease from this time.--Those of our subscribers who have preserved their No's can have them bound for 25 cents, and be furnished with a Title Page, by leaving them at the Bookstore of W. & S. B. Ives." [20 Sept 1830; p. 207]

source of information: 18 March-9 Sept 1829, scattered issues; 12 Sept 1829-20 Sept 1830 vol; Lyon

bibliography: Betty Longenecker Lyon. "A History of Children's Secular Magazines Published in the United States from 1789-1899." PhD diss. Johns Hopkins, 1942; pp. 82-83.

The Juvenile Repertory ; Sept 1828-Jan 1829?

edited by: Pardon Davis

published: Philadelphia, PA: Pardon Davis.

frequency: monthly

description: Jan 1829 is issue #5

source of information: OCLC; AAS catalog; Lyon

bibliography: Betty Longenecker Lyon. "A History of Children's Secular Magazines Published in the United States from 1789-1899." PhD diss. Johns Hopkins, 1942; 77-80.

The Sabbath School Messenger, and Children's Friend ; Oct 1828-Sept 1829?

cover/masthead: 1829

published: Albany, NY: L. G. Hoffman. 1829: "Printed at the Office of the Christian Register, for the Central Union, and sold at their Depository, 404, N. Market-street." [1 (May 1829): back cover]

frequency: monthly

description: 16 pp.; page size untrimmed, 5.25" h x 3.5" w. Prices: 3¢/ month; 1-5 copies, 37.5¢/ year; 5-20 copies, 31.25¢/ year; over 20 copies, 25¢/ year

probably continued by: The Sabbath School Messenger, and Children's Friend (1 May 1832-?)

source of information: May 1829 issue; AAS catalog

New-Jersey Sabbath School Journal ; published during 1829

published: Princeton, NJ

source of information: OCLC

The Children's Magazine ; Jan 1829-1874

cover/masthead: 1831 | 1857

edited by: W. R. Whittingham, 1838
• Anthony Ten Broeck, 1844
• Rev. A. B. Hart, 1862

published: New York, NY: General Protestant Episcopal Sunday School Union, 1829-1874.
• Printed at the Protestant Episcopal Press, 46 Lumber St., 1831

frequency: monthly; 1 vol/ year

description: 24 pp.; page size: 6" h x 3.75" w
• Price, 1829, 1831-1850: 1 copy, 25¢/ year; 50 copies, $10/ year. 1857: 25¢/ year; subscription must be for at least 4 copies per address

relevant quotes: "This magazine ... is to you like the talent in the parable. God has given it to you to do you good, and you will have to answer to him for the way in which you use it. If you read it merely out of curiosity, and forget all it teaches as soon as you have done, or only remember what is meant to make its teaching pleasant to you, and cannot of itself do you any good;--then you will waste your talent. You will make what might have done you good, the means of bringing you into greater sin." [1 (Jan 1829): 3-4]

source of information: 1829, 1831-1862, scattered issues & bound volumes; AAS catalog; Kelly

bibliography: Eleanor Weakley Nolen. "Nineteenth Century Children's Magazines." The Horn Book Magazine. 15 (January/February 1939): 55-60.
Children's Periodicals of the United States, ed. R. Gordon Kelly. Westport, CT & London, England: Greenwood Press, 1984.

The Infants' Magazine ; Jan 1829-1842

edited by: Paul Beck

published: Philadelphia, PA: American Sunday School Union

frequency: monthly; 2 vol/ year

description: 16 pp.; page size, 4.25" h x 2.5" w; price, ½¢/ issue; 18¢/ year

source of information: July-Dec 1830 vol; July-Dec 1832 vol; AAS catalog; OCLC; Kelly

Children's Periodicals of the United States, ed. R. Gordon Kelly. Westport, CT & London, England: Greenwood Press, 1984.

Youth's Herald and Sabbath School Magazine ; Jan 1829-Dec 1830

published: Middlebury, VT: Vermont Sunday School Union, Jan 1829-Dec 1830; issue described in NUC was printed by Ovid Miner
• In OCLC: Rutland, VT: Vermont Sunday School Union, Jan 1829-Dec 1830.

frequency: monthly

description: 16 pp.?; page size, 11" h

source of information: AAS catalog; OCLC; NUC

The Sabbath School Visitant and Juvenile Magazine (also Western Sabbath School Visitant, and Juvenile Magazine) ; 10 Jan-31 Dec 1829

published: Utica, NY: by G. S. Wilson for the Western Sunday School Union.

frequency: semimonthly

description: 16 pp.?; page size, 7" h • #1 dated 1828

continues: Sabbath School Visitant (June 1824-Feb 1826); The Juvenile Magazine (27 Jan 1827-Dec 1828)

source of information: NUC

Juvenile Monthly ; Nov 1829

edited by: C. W. T. • H. H. D.

published: Amherst, MA: Mt. Pleasant Classical Institution, Nov 1829.

frequency: monthly

description: 32 pp.; page size, 8.5" h

source of information: OCLC

The Parent's Gift, or Youth's Magazine ; Jan-Dec 1830?

published: Philadelphia, PA: I. M. Allen; for the Baptist General Tract Society.

frequency: monthly; 1 vol/year

description: 1830: 12 pp.; page size, 6.75" h x 4" w

relevant quote: Introduction: "Dear Children, Should your parents present this Magazine to you as a monthly gift, we hope you will read it with care, and remember the truths it may contain. We feel desirous that you should have religious instruction suited to your age and capacity, and have therefore taken pains to prepare this work for your use." [1 (Jan 1830): 1]

• The editor died suddenly in 1830: "The selections for this Number [Aug 1830] of the Parent's Gift were among the last labours of the late Editor. ... [W]hen the Editor selected this article he was in his usual health, and had before him the prospect of a long and useful life...." ["To the Youthful Readers of This Magazine." 1 (Aug 1830): 95]

source of information: 1830 bound vol; Matthews; AAS catalog

bibliography: Harriet L. Matthews. "Children's Magazines." Bulletin of Bibliography. 1 (April 1899): 133-6.

The Juvenile Reformer and Sabbath School Instructor ; 1830-1836 • Journal of Reform ; 25 May 1836-17 May 1837

published: Portland, ME: Daniel C. Colesworthy.

frequency: 25 May 1836-17 May 1837, weekly

description: The format changed in 1833: "The 'Sabbath School Instructor,' from Portland, Maine, has appeared in a new and improved form, and is graced by communications from Mrs. Sigourney." (Rose Bud)
• 25 May 1836-17 May 1837: page size, 13.75" h

source of information: Matthews; OCLC

bibliography: "Items for Youth." Rose Bud. 1 (15 June 1833): 167. online
• Harriet L. Matthews. "Children's Magazines." Bulletin of Bibliography. 1 (April 1899): 133-6.

The Juvenile Repository ; Jan-27 March 1830

published: Providence, RI: Samuel S. Wilson

frequency: biweekly

description: Page size, 11" h • 27 March 1830 is vol 1 #7

source of information: AAS catalog

Youth's Magazine; or, Spirit of the Juvenile Miscellany ; Jan-Dec 1830

published: AAS: Boston, MA: Putnam & Hunt.
• NUC: Boston, MA: Freeman Hunt.

frequency: monthly

description: Page size, 5.75" h

source of information: AAS catalog; NUC

Classical Journal and Scholar's Review ; Jan 1830-Dec 1831 • Juvenile Rambler ; 4 Jan-18 Jan 1832, 1 Feb 1832-26 Dec 1833

cover/masthead: 4 Jan 1832 | 11 Jan-26 Dec 1832

edited by: John P. Lathrop, 1830-1831
• William A. Alcott, 1832-1833

published: Boston, MA: Putnam & Hunt, Jan-Feb 1830.
• Boston, MA: Wait, Greene & Co. & J. W. J. Niles, March-Dec 1830; at 13 Court St.
• Boston, MA: John Allen, 4 Jan 1832. "Third edition" by Allen & Goddard. Printed Hiram Tupper, at 19 Water St.
• Boston, MA: Allen & Goddard, 11-18 Jan 1832; publisher at 11 School St. Printed Hiram Tupper, at 19 Water St.
• Boston, MA: John Allen, 8 Feb-18 July 1832; publisher at 11 School St. Printed Hiram Tupper; 8 Feb-7 March, Tupper at 19 Water St.; 14 March-8 Aug, Tupper at 127 Washington St.
• Boston, MA: Allen & Ticknor, 25 July 1832-June 1833. Printed 25 July-8 Aug 1832, Hiram Tupper, at 127 Washington St. Printed 22 Aug- 1832, 26 Sept 1832, Kane & Co., at 127 Washington St. Printed 3 Oct-19 Dec 1832, Isaac R. Butts, in School St.
• Boston, MA: Brown & Pierce, and Ford & Damrell, 1 July-26 Dec 1833.

frequency: 1830-1831 (as Review), monthly; 1 vol/ year.
• 4 Jan-18 Jan 1832, 1 Feb 1832-26 Dec 1833 (as Rambler), weekly: Wednesday

description: Issue #1 in 4 versions. • 1830-1831: 24 pp.; duodecimo. Price, $1/ year.
• 4 Jan-18 Jan, 1 Feb 1832-19 Dec 1832, 2 Jan-26 Dec 1833: 4 pp.; quarto. 26 Dec 1832: 8 pp. Price, 2¢/ copy; $1/ year.
• 4-18 Jan, 1 Feb-26 Dec 1832: page size, 10.5" h x 8.5" w

relevant quotes:
• The "demise" of the Classical Journal and its replacement by the Rambler was explained humorously in the Rambler's "autobiography"; the Rambler claimed that its original masthead had come from its "older brother ... whom they had very cruelly destroyed." The editor explained further: "The truth is, his brother was a feeble child, not able to go alone even when he was two years old. The town refused to provide for him, and he was on the point of being turned into the streets to perish, when we provided a private room in the storehouse, where he now lies quietly, and only took his shoes and collar, to give to the ungrateful Rambler!" ["Adventures of the Juvenile Rambler." 1 (1 Feb 1832): 13]

• When Alcott took over as editor in 1832, he was contributing to the American Annals of Education; the publisher of the Annals also published the first new issue of the periodical: "One of our correspondents in the present number, remarks on the advantages which would be derived from a newspaper devoted to schools, and used as a weekly reader. One publication of this kind has been attempted; but as far as we have seen its numbers, it seems to us to be very imperfectly adapted to the object. A gentleman of experience in teaching, who contemplated and proposed a work of this kind many years since, has prepared a specimen number just issued by the publishers of the Annals of Education. The character of this number, satisfies us, that we were not mistaken in believing the editor peculiarly qualified for the task; and we cannot but anticipate much good from his labors. In order to bring it if possible within the reach of all; the work is offered on terms so low, that the publishers cannot be remunerated, or the work continued, without a large subscription. We hope the attempt will succeed. ("School Newspaper"; p. 88)

• Introductory: "Among the multiplied periodicals of the day, scarcely one is adapted to the classes of our schools. Is it not surprising that an object so interesting has been so long overlooked? Schools are the nurseries of society. Their usefulness depends much on the habits and love of reading they produce. The love of reading would soon break up the haunts of folly and mischief, and operate powerfully upon the public opinion of children and youth. Low amusements, like darkness, will disappear before the light of knowledge. Thousands of teachers and tens of thousands of children appear to labor almost in vain, for want of some publication calculated to arrest the attention of the young, and to render a book delightful." ["To Parents and Teachers." 1 (4 Jan 1832): 1]

• The change of titles and format was explained in what may have been the Rambler's prospectus: "The publishers of the 'Classical Journal and Scholars Review,' found reason to believe, that a school newspaper on a plan long since formed by an experience teacher of youth, would be more generally useful, and more acceptable to their subscribers. They have therefore committed the work to his care, and it will hereafter be published under the name of the Juvenile Rambler--embracing a greater amount and variety of matter, at the same price--with the hope that a large subscription will defray its expenses. It will be published on Wednesday of each week; and will contain short and simple articles on a variety of subjects. 1. Sketches of History. 2. Geography, Voyages and Travels. 3. Articles on Natural History and Science. 4. Accounts of books for the young. 5. Parables, Fables, and Proverbs. 6. Biographical notices, especially of the young. 7. Poetical pieces and tales. 8. Summary of Intelligence--miscellaneous notices, anecdotes, &c." ["Advertisement." 1 (11 Jan 1832): 5]

• The Rambler told its own story in an early issue: "I was born, Jan. 2, 1832. Like every work of man, I was put together part by part--now one limb and then another--and last of all furnished with a head! ... About this there was some difficulty. At least fifty were examined, before one was found which they thought would answer. ... At length they put on one, and I began to breathe and to walk a little; but it made me appear so much like my neighbors, that they were afraid I should not be known. So they took it off, and put on that which you see now. But they were afraid that I should not live at first with only one head; and so they put on that of my elder brother (the Classical Journal).... At length I was allowed to go abroad--and never did Rambler go farther or faster. In fact, although it is a secret, I did steal out a little with my first head, and before my limbs were fairly shaped, and I was pretty well received too...." ["Adventures of the Juvenile Rambler." 1 (1 Feb 1832): 13]

• After three issues, the publisher paused to take stock: "The next paper will not be issued until the first of February, in order to give time for ascertaining the number of Subscribers. Those who have received papers, are requested to give notice of the number they shall need as soon as possible, and forward the amount due, as it is not intended to print copies beyond the demand. As the experiment is a novel one, those who wish will now be permitted to subscribe for six months, in order to satisfy themselves of the nature and value of the publication." [1 (18 Jan 1832): 9]

• The editor of the Rose Bud (1832-1839) was amused to find that a rival periodical so resembled hers: "Since commencing our little work, we have become acquainted with two periodicals of a design very similar to our own. ... [One] work is entitled, The Juvenile Rambler, and is printed in Boston. We saw this paper for the first time last week, although it has reached the 37th number. It is remarkable that two persons entirely unconnected with each other should undertake plans so nearly alike, as the Rambler's and our own. The Rambler, like the Rose Bud, is printed on a small quarto sheet, with three columns on a page, and is issued weekly. Its price is One Dollar per annum...." [1 (13 Oct 1832): 26-27]

• The Rose Bud was amused also when the Rambler reprinted some of its work, as disclosed in a parody letter: "i am subskriber to a nice papur in Bostun called the Jewwenile Ramblurr, and it has had the dissernment October 2d to publish my fust letter to you.... wat i want of you is, to let the Charlestun folks kno about the extrac, in the Juwwenile Ramblurr, and then they will see i ant considurd so insignifekant, in Bostun as what i am in my native city, i guess them Bostun folks has some gumption." [2 (19 Oct 1833): 31]

• The editor of the American Annals of Education was candid about the reason for the Rambler's demise: "We did all in our power to secure it such a character as we approved; but its price and subscription list did not authorise a sufficient amount of illustrations. The Parley Magazine, with its splendid illustrations, only needed a change in its character, and the Rambler has been united with it, to accomplish the great object more effectually." ("Parley's"; p. 100)

• The Southern Rose Bud eulogized its rival: "The able Editor of this little paper has transferred his talents to 'Parley's Magazine,' which will lend that excellent work an additional value." ["The Juvenile Rambler." Southern Rose Bud. 2 (22 Feb 1834): 103]

• The editor of the Rambler was less enthusiastic a few years later: "We were employed by the philanthropic proprietor of the 'Juvenile Rambler,' to edit that paper for him about two years, till it was merged in Parley's Magazine. Subsequently we edited Parley's Magazine four years--we will not say with what success--we leave that to others. We will only say that had we sailed under the flag of a sect or party, and had other people been as willing as ourselves to 'work for nothing and keep themselves,' we have no doubt both works would have been better supported than they were; and we might have been willing longer to bear the burden of editing the latter." ["Youth's Penny Paper"; p. 336]

absorbed by: Parley's Magazine ; 1833-1844

source of information: 1832 volume; Dechert; AAS catalog

bibliography: "School Newspaper." American Annals of Education. 2 (Jan 1832): 88. online
• Review. The Juvenile Miscellany, 3rd series 2 (March/April 1832): 108. online
• "Juvenile Periodicals." Rose Bud. 1 (13 Oct 1832): 26-27. online
• Notice. Christian Watchman. 14 (22 Feb 1833): 31. online
• "Items for Youth." Rose Bud. 1 (15 June 1833): 167. online
• Humorous piece. Southern Rose Bud. 2 (19 October 1833): 31. Ed. online
• "Parley's Magazine." American Annals of Education. 4 (Feb 1834): 100. online
• "The Juvenile Rambler." Southern Rose Bud. 2 (22 Feb 1834): 103. online
• "The Youth's Penny Paper." American Annals of Education. 8 (July 1838): pp. 335-336. online
• Harriet L. Matthews. "Children's Magazines." Bulletin of Bibliography. 1 (April 1899): 133-6.
• Dorothy Dechert. "The Merry Family: A Study of Merry's Museum, 1841-1872, and of the Various Periodicals that Merged with It." MA thesis. Columbia University, 1942.
• Betty Longenecker Lyon. "A History of Children's Secular Magazines Published in the United States from 1789-1899." PhD diss. Johns Hopkins, 1942; pp. 88-93.

Expostulator, or Young Catholic's Guide ; 31 March 1830-23 March 1831

published: Boston, MA: William Smith.

frequency: weekly

description: Page size, 11" h

source of information: OCLC; AAS catalog

The Juvenile Key ; 18 Sept 1830-9 March 1833 • Family Pioneer and Juvenile Key ; 17 March 1833-23 May 1837

edited by: J. Griffin (as "Oliver Oldwise," 1830)

published: Brunswick, ME: Joseph Griffen. Printed by Griffen's children, Zerui'ah-Juan, Joseph Warren, & George Griffen.

frequency: weekly

description: 1830: page size, height, 9 in. x width, 7 in.; 4 pp.; price, 75¢/year; 200 subscribers
• 1833: 4 pp.; price: $1/volume, payable in advance; 350 subscribers.

source of information: Kelly

bibliography: Boston Recorder. 15 (October 20, 1830): 166. online
• Clement F. Robinson, "The Juvenile Key." The Fossil. April 1957: 254-258.
Children's Periodicals of the United States, ed. R. Gordon Kelly. Westport, CT & London, England: Greenwood Press, 1984.
• Gillian Avery. Behold the Child: American Children and Their Books, 1621-1922. Baltimore, MD; Johns Hopkins University Press, 1994; p. 82.

Juvenile Magazine, and Youth's Monthly Visiter ; Oct 1830, Feb 1831-after April 1832

edited by: Luther Pratt

published: New York, NY
• Printers: Oct 1830, J. B. Requa, 245 Spring St.; Feb 1831, April 1832: J. H. Turney, 133 East Broadway

frequency: erratic: vol 1 #1 is Oct 1830; vol 1 #2 is Feb 1831; vol 1 #10 is April 1832

description: 36 pp.; page size, 7.5" h (untrimmed) x 4" w (trimmed)

relevant quote: Introduction: "It will be the unremitting exertion of the editor, to render this little work a welcome Visiter both in schools, and its families; to excite in the rising generation, a laudable ambition in the acquirement of such qualifications as will render them useful members of society, enabling them to 'act well their parts' in such places as they shall be called to fill, whether in the church, in the affairs of state, or in the domestic circle; to inculcate every moral and social virtue, and above all, to inspire the tender mind with a due reverence and affection for the Supreme Being. To this end, he will endeavour, to the best of his abilities, to exhibit and illustrate to his youthful readers, in plain and simple language, the elementary, or first principles of Philosophy, Astronomy, and Geography. ... Biographical sketches of celebrated characters, both ancient and modern, as well as such historical facts as will be most useful, shall occasionally be given; together with such moral and interesting tales, founded on fact, or probability, as will prove at once instructive and entertaining to youth of both sexes: but every thing of a legendary nature, will be carefully avoided. To draw the youthful genius into exercises of composition, its pages will always be open to such juvenile productions as shall be judged correct in sentiment, and readily inserted. ... It cannot be expected that any one number will embrace all the subjects above mentioned, but they shall be attended to as occasion may require. Nor must it be expected that the work will be entirely original. The editor will occasionally avail himself of the talents and ingenuity of others; always, however, as far as practicable, giving credit to the authors from whom he shall borrow, or the publications from which he shall extract. This he thinks proper to mention, as there are many publications at the present day, whose authors, or compilers, pay so little regard to this act of justice, that it is very difficult to distinguish between the original and selected." [1 (Oct 1830): 1-3]

source of information: Oct 1830, Feb 1831, April 1832 bound issues; NUC; OCLC; AAS catalog

Sunday School Journal and Advocate of Christian Education ; 24 Nov 1830-25 June 1834 • Sunday-School Journal ; 9 July 1834-15 Dec 1841 • Gazette of Education, and Sunday-school Journal ; 1841-1858 • Sunday School Times ; 1 Jan 1859-24 June 1967

published: Philadelphia, PA: American Sunday School Union, 1831-1858.
• 1 Jan 1859-24 June 1967: Philadelphia, PA: J. C. Garrigues.
• Also, Philadelphia, PA: J. D. Wattles; Philadelphia, PA: John S. Hart; Philadelphia, PA: John Wanamaker. New York, NY: n. p. All for the American Sunday-School Union.

frequency: weekly, 24 Nov 1830-25 June 1834
• semimonthly, 9 July 1834-15 Dec 1841
• weekly, 1 Jan 1859-24 June 1967

description: Newspaper format • Vol 1-4 (1831-1834); new series vol 1-29 (1834-1858)

merged with: Gospel Herald to form Sunday School Times and Gospel Herald (for adults)

source of information: OCLC; ULS

Mentor and Youth's Instructive Companion ; 15 Dec 1830-

edited by: S. Wild

published: New York, NY: S. Wild.

frequency: semimonthly

description: Octavo; price, $1/ year outside New York, NY; $1.25/ year in New York, NY; in New York City, it was delivered by carriers.

source of information: Lyon; OCLC

bibliography: Betty Longenecker Lyon. "A History of Children's Secular Magazines Published in the United States from 1789-1899." PhD diss. Johns Hopkins, 1942; pp. 84-87.

The Scholar's Gazette (also The Scholar's Weekly Gazette) ; 13 April-27 July 1831 • The Scholar's Gazette ; Sept 1831-1832

edited by: E. B. Adams

published: Philadelphia, PA

frequency: weekly

description: Page size, 10.5" h • No issue for Aug 1831

source of information: NUC

Juvenile Gazette ; 2 July 1831-

published: Mendon, MA: George W. Stacy.

frequency: semimonthly

description: 4 pp.; page size, 11.25" h

source of information: AAS catalog

The Child's Cabinet ; 1832

published: New Haven, CT: J. L. Cross.

description: Page size, 7" h

source of information: OCLC

Sabbath School Magazine ; 1832

published: Steubenville; printed by James E. Wilson

frequency: bimonthly

description: Page size, 8.5" h

source of information: OCLC; ULS

The Youth's Temperance Lecturer ; 1832

edited by: William Goodell

published: New York, NY

frequency: monthly

description: Price, 75¢/ year

relevant quote: A description of the periodical appeared in a rival publication: "Since commencing our little work, we have become acquainted with two periodicals of a design very similar to our own. The first is a small monthly magazine, printed in New-York, and entitled The Youth's Temperance Lecturer. The leading object of the Editor seems to be, to fortify his readers against acquiring habits of intemperance. But his design embraces other kindred objects, and presents a very pleasing Miscellany of original matter, and choice extracts." [Rose Bud; p. 26-27]

source of information: Rose Bud

bibliography: "Juvenile Periodicals." Rose Bud. 1 (13 Oct 1832): 26-27. online
Standard Encyclopedia of the Alcohol Problem, ed. Ernest Hurst Cherrington. Westerville, OH: American Issue Publishing Co., 1929; vol 3, p. 1118.

The Rose Bud ; March 1832-after Feb 1834?

published: Lowell, MA: O. Sheple.

frequency: monthly

description: Page size, 13.75" h • For Sunday schools

relevant quote: Carolyn Gilman, editor of the Rose Bud (1832-1839), was surprised to find that another periodical shared that name: "Having been often complimented on the pretty and novel name of our newspaper, we were startled, and must confess, somewhat chagrined, when a friend, last week, brought us a monthly publication from Lowell, (Mass.) called 'The Rose Bud,' with a vignette somewhat resembling our own, which we find has been in existence since last March. It is got up with great neatness, and seems happily designed for Sunday Schools." (Rose Bud; 30) As a result, Gilman changed the name of her periodical to Southern Rose Bud.

source of information: OCLC; NUC; Rose Bud

bibliography: "Singular Coincidence." Rose Bud. 1 (20 Oct 1832): 30. online

Youth's Companion, and Weekly Family Visitor ; 1 April 1832-23 March 1833 • Youth's Companion and Family Visitor ; 30 March 1833-22 March 1834

published: New York, NY: James Van Valkenburgh, 1 April 1832-1833; published at School Book Depository, Broadway.
• New York, NY: Burnett & Smith, 1833-22 March 1834.

frequency: weekly

description: 4 pp.; folio; page size, 9.25" h; price, $1/ year.

absorbed by: New York Weekly Messenger ; 1832-13 July 1836 (for adults)

source of information: Lyon; AAS catalog; OCLC

bibliography: Betty Longenecker Lyon. "A History of Children's Secular Magazines Published in the United States from 1789-1899." PhD diss. Johns Hopkins, 1942; pp. 94-97.

The Sabbath School Messenger, and Children's Friend ; 1 May 1832-?

published: Albany, NY: L. G. Hoffman.

frequency: semimonthly

description: page size, 9.5" h

probably continues: The Sabbath School Messenger, and Children's Friend (Oct 1828-Sept 1829?)

source of information: OCLC

Illinois Sunday School Banner ; May 1832-?

edited by: John Mason Peck

published: Rock Spring, IL; published for the Illinois Sunday School Union.

frequency: monthly

description: 11" h

source of information: OCLC

Rose Bud, or Youth's Gazette ; 11 Aug, 2 Sept, 15 Sept 1832-24 Aug 1833 • Southern Rose Bud ; 31 Aug 1833-22 Aug 1835 • The Southern Rose ; Sept 1835-17 Aug 1839

cover/masthead: 11 Aug, 2 Sept, 15 Sept 1832-24 Aug 1833 | 31 Aug 1833 | 7 Sept-26 Oct 1833 | 2 Nov 1833-23 Aug 1834 | 30 Aug 1834-22 Aug 1835

edited by: Caroline H. Gilman

published: Charleston, SC: J. S. Burges, 11 Aug 1832; at 44 Queen St.
• Charleston, SC: William Estill, 2 Sept 1832-23 Feb 1833; at 30 Broad St.
• Charleston, SC: James S. Burges, 5 Oct 1833-1835; at 183 King St.
• Charleston, SC: E. J. Van Brunt, 1835-1836.
• Charleston, SC: Burges & Honour, 1836.
• Charleston, SC: J. S. Burges, 1836-?.
• Charleston, SC: B. B. Hussey, 1838-1839.

frequency: 15 Sept 1832-17 Aug 1835: weekly: Saturday

description: 11 Aug, 2 Sept, 15 Sept-22 Aug 1835: 4 pp.; quarto; price, $1/ year
• Sept 1835-17 Aug 1835: 16 pp.; $2/ year
• As Southern Rose, the magazine was intended for adults.

relevant quotes:
• The first issues were delayed: "Providential circumstances, which have delayed the publication of the first sheet of the Rose Bud, will also prevent the successive numbers from appearing until later in the season." [1 (11 Aug 1832): 4] There was a three-week gap between issue one and issue two; issue three was published two weeks after issue two.

• Introduction: "I propose to publish the Rose Bud every Saturday. It will contain original prose and poetry, notices of new books and toys, extracts from children's works that are not common, and many other interesting things which cannot be detailed here." [1 (11 Aug 1832): 1]

• Amused at the publication of another periodical named "Rose Bud," Gilman explained the name's genesis: "One evening in July last, a family circle were conversing together, when one of the children exclaimed, 'Mother, how pretty it would be to have a paper, in which children could write.' 'So it would. What would be a suitable name?' The Star, the Gem, and many others were suggested and declined, until the mother said, 'What do you think of the Rose Bud, with this motto from Scott, "The Rose is fairest, when 'tis budding new"? At least it will be perfectly original.' A wiser head added 'The Youth's Gazette' to the title, and the manuscript of Number One was in the publisher's hand the following week." ["Singular Coincidence." 1 (20 Oct 1832): 30]

• Gilman tried different ways of distributing the periodical: "In consequence of the frequent irregularities and embarrassments, arising from the present system of Carriers, the Editor of the Rose Bud has been enabled, by the kindness of several friends, to establish Depositories in various places, where it will in future be left, and where subscribers may obtain their papers by sending for them at an early hour on Saturday morning. The mode of distributing by Carriers will be dispensed with. ... The different Wards of the City are formed by the intersection of Queen and Meeting streets. Subscribers are particularly requested to send to Depositories in their own Ward." Seven depositories were listed: James M. Bee, Tradd St. (ward 1); E. Thayer's bookstore, Broad St. (ward 2); Burges' Printing Office, Queen St. (ward 3); Hussey's bookstore, King St. (ward 4); "Mrs. Anthony's, near the Foot Bridge" (Cannonborough); William Lee (Mazyekborough); Sawyer's English Good Store, King St. ("other places on the Neck"). [1 (9 March 1833): 111]

• About the title change for volume 2: "Since the publication of the Rose Bud, papers of a similar character have increased so rapidly at the North, as to induce the Editor to change its title. The Southern Rose Bud, will be issued on the 31st of August, in an enlarged form, with improved paper, and will be adapted in many points to mature readers, though not relinquishing the juvenile department. The Editor again renews her pledge, to shut out from its pages all allusions to political or religious controversy." ["Prospectus of the Southern Rose Bud." 1 (17 Aug 1833): 204]

• A new vignette was created for volume 2, though it was late in arriving: "We regret, that our new vignette has not arrived from New-York." [2 (31 Aug 1833): 3]

• After the issue for 16 Aug 1834, the Rose Bud ceased to be a children's periodical: "The Southern Rose Bud, Vol. III. will be issued every two weeks on a double sheet, comprising more matter than has formerly been contained in two single ones. ... It is proposed to adapt it to family reading, and though a department will still be left to Juvenile subscribers, the taste of young gentlemen and ladies of maturer years will be carefully studied." [2 (16 Aug 1834): 203]

• The editor says farewell: "With a thousand good wishes, and in perfectly happy humor towards her large circle of subscribers, the Editor bids them, in this number, an affectionate farewell. She ceases from her pleasant toils, not in consequence of any special discouragement,--for her Publisher is desirous of continuing the Periodical, and assures her that, by very slight exertions, a generous remuneration might be obtained for the expenses and labors incident to the establishment; but, as she approached her office seven years ago through an impulse perfectly voluntary, so she retires from it now with the same unimpaired feeling of liberty. Should she continue farther in the career of literature, ... she would prefer some mode of publication less exacting than the rigorous punctuality of a periodical work. Yet nothing but delightful reminiscences will ever be connected in her mind with the thought of her juvenile Rose-Bud, and more expanded Rose, nor any feeling less warm than gratitude be ever entertained for those, whose approbation, or patronage, or literary assistance fostered the flower at every period of its growth, and rendered the Editor's occupation at once her pleasure and her pride." [7 (17 Aug 1839): 416]

source of information: APS II reel 688; AAS catalog; Lyon; Kelly

available: APS II (1800-1850), reel 688

bibliography: Notice. The Rural Repository, August 31, 1833: 55. online
• "The Rose-bud." The New-York Mirror 12 (8 Nov 1834): 149. online
• Notice. New-York Mirror 13 (23 Jan 1836): 239. online
• "The Southern Rose." American Annals of Education, (April 1837): 190. online
• Betty Longenecker Lyon. "A History of Children's Secular Magazines Published in the United States from 1789-1899." PhD diss. Johns Hopkins, 1942; pp. 98-104.
• Janie M. Smith, "'Rose Bud,' a Magazine for Children." The Horn Book Magazine. 19 (Jan 1943): 15-20.
Children's Periodicals of the United States, ed. R. Gordon Kelly. Westport, CT & London, England: Greenwood Press, 1984.
• Jan Bakker. "Caroline Gilman and the Issue of Slavery in the Rose Magazines, 1832-1839." Southern Studies, 24 (1985): 273-283.
• Gillian Avery. Behold the Child: American Children and Their Books, 1621-1922. Baltimore, MD; Johns Hopkins University Press, 1994; 85.

Youth's Literary Gazette (also The Youth's Miscellany) ; 1 Dec 1832-22 Nov 1833

cover/masthead: 1832

published: Philadelphia, PA: Thomas T. Ash.
• Also published in Baltimore, MD, & New York, NY.

frequency: weekly: Saturday; 1 vol/ year

description: 4 pp.; quarto; page size untrimmed, 11" h x 9" w; price, $1/ year • 52 issues • Newspaper format

relevant quotes:
• The Gazette made its intentions clear to young readers and to the adults subscribing for them. To parents: "Among the numerous cheap publications of the day, none has been offered to that numerous class of society who most need instruction and amusement; and with your approval and assistance, the publisher of 'The Youth's Literary Gazette,' proposes to furnish a year's reading at the ordinary cost of two small volumes. ... The Gazette will contain as much good, useful, and interesting matter as would form twelve of the usual sized volumes for children. The articles will be adapted to all ages, from 5 to 15 years. ... Its pages will be devoted to-- 1. Travels and Voyages. 2. Familiar Tales and Narratives. 3. Dialogues on Scientific Subjects. 4. Biography and Natural History. 5. Notices of all new Works for Children. 6. Interesting Historical Anecdotes. 7. Charades, Conundrums, and Puzzles." ["Address." 1 (Dec 1832): 1] A description of the format appeared on the last page of the specimen issue, above an extensive collection of newspaper notices and a detailed advertisement of globes, orreries, chemistry sets, and "philosophical apparatus" sold by the publisher: "There will be no light or trifling matter admitted in its pages. The 1st and 2d pages will always contain short, but good moral stories.... The 3d and 4th pages will be devoted to scientific subjects, treated in a simple, plain style, as shall be easily understood by every child; for ornaments, two or three good wood engravings will be in every No. Natural History, Astronomy, Geometry, and such subjects, will be freely illustrated." [1 (1 Dec 1832): unnumbered back page]

• The editor reminded "our young friends" that they were to take more than entertainment from the paper: "It is for you this miniature Newspaper has been prepared, and to you we look for encouragement to continue it. You are all fond of anecdotes ... your paper will contain a variety, and we hope you will try to remember them, endeavour to understand what you read, and imitate the good examples that are recorded.... Remember, that in this land of liberty, every child is the maker of his own fortune; that education and industry furnish a sure passport to good society; that good conduct and information will make you respected by all." ["Address." 1 (1 Dec 1832): 1]

• Like most periodicals of the time, the Gazette reprinted works from rivals: "[A]rrangements have been made in London for the early receipt of about fifteen Periodicals for children, and the very best of their contents will be given in the Gazette." ["Address." 1 (Dec 1832): 1]

• As was customary, issues were sent to other periodicals, whose notices would serve as advertisements, thus, "We acknowledge the favour of the 'Ladies' Mirror,' from Southbridge, Mass. and the 'Youth's Literary Gazette,' from Philadelphia, both, charming periodicals." [Rose Bud. 1 (22 Dec 1832): 67] The Rose Bud printed another notice six months later, lauding the Gazette and two other periodicals which were "conducted with great spirit, and form a new and interesting era in Juvenile Literature." [Rose Bud. 1 (15 June 1833): 167]

• From the concluding issue: "We have now published the Youth's Literary Gazette nearly one year, and find, owing to the numerous publications of the same kind, it is impossible for them all to succeed. We shall therefore transfer our subscription list to the publishers of PETER PARLEY'S MAGAZINE, at the close of the present volume of the Gazette...." [1 (12 Oct 1833): 184; in Lyon, p. 108]

• The Southern Rose Bud eulogized its rival: "The publishers of the 'Youth's Literary Gazette,' in Philadelphia, give notice, that they will transfer their subscription list to the publishers of 'Parley's Magazine,' in consequence of the increased number of publications of the same kind. We have received the series of the 'Youth's Literary Gazette,' with great interest. Its invariable tendency has been to improve and please the youthful mind." [Notice. Southern Rose Bud. 2 (19 Oct 1833): 31]

absorbed by: Parley's Magazine ; 1833-1844

source of information: 1 Dec 1832 issue; Lyon; AAS catalog; OCLC; NUC

bibliography: Notice. Rose Bud. 1 (22 Dec 1832): 67.
• "Items for Youth." Rose Bud. 1 (15 June 1833): 167. online
• Notice. Southern Rose Bud. 2 (19 Oct 1833): 31. online
• Betty Longenecker Lyon. "A History of Children's Secular Magazines Published in the United States from 1789-1899." PhD diss. Johns Hopkins, 1942; pp. 105-108.

The Sabbath School Visiter ; 1833-1843

cover/masthead: 1837

edited by: Asa Bullard

published: Boston, MA: Massachusetts Sunday School Society.

frequency: monthly

description: 1835-1837: 24 pp.; page size, 7"h x 4.25" w. • 1838: 36 pp.; duodecimo

• Prices: 1837, 50¢/ year, payable in advance; 1838, $1/ year in advance

• In 1837, the Visiter had agents in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Illinois, Ohio, South Carolina, & Louisiana

continued by: Congregational Visiter ; 1844-1848 (for adults)

source of information: 1835-1837 bound vols; Aug 1837 issue; The Children's Magazine 10 (July 1838): inside back cover; AAS catalog; OCLC

Youth's Companion ; 1833

published: Rochester, NY; printed at the office of "The Gem"

frequency: weekly

description: Issue 2 is 27 April 1833

source of information: OCLC

Parley's Magazine ; 16 March 1833-1844

cover/masthead: early 1833 | Sept 1833 | 1834 | Jan 1835 | 20 June 1835 | 12 Sept 1835 | 10 Oct 1835 | 1836 | 1841, 1844

edited by: 1833, Samuel Griswold Goodrich • 1833-1837, William Andrus Alcott • 1838-1844, Charles S. Francis?

published: Boston, MA: Lilly, Wait & Co., 1833.
• Boston, MA: Samuel Colman, 1834-1835.
• Boston, MA: Joseph H. Francis, 1835-1844; New York, NY: Charles S. Francis, 1835-1844.

frequency: 16 March 1833-1835: biweekly; on Saturday; 1 vol/ year; also available in quarterly parts, "in volumes of about 100 pages, very neatly put up with strong cloth backs" ["About Volume Fourth of Parley's Magazine, for the Year 1836." 3 (1835): 61] • Jan 1836-1844: monthly; first day of month; 1 vol/ year; also available in quarterly parts

description: March 1833-1835: 16 pp.; page size untrimmed, 7.25" h; 5.5" w; price, $1/ year • Jan 1836-1844: 32 pp.; page size untrimmed, 7.25" h; 5.5" w; price $1/year: "The reasons for this change [to 32 pages] are numerous. One is that we have more room for variety in a number of 32 pages than in one of 16; we shall also get rid of the necessity of continuing long articles through several numbers. Another reason for change is, to diminish, as much as possible, the risk of failures in sending by mail and otherwise; as we shall now send at once what used to go at two different times; and at only half the former risk." ["Notice." 3 (1835): 94]

• Circulation (from magazine): 30 March 1833, 10,000; 1833, 12,000; 15 March 1834, 20,000; Jan 1838, 6,000.

• From the beginning, the magazine was stereotyped; it was reprinted several times, with changes made in text and sometimes in illustrations. The magazine was republished twice in the 1850s by Edward H. Fletcher: in 1854 as The Youth's Galaxy (1854) and in 1857 as "Republication of Parley's Magazine, with original matter."

relevant information:
• Beginning in Jan 1835, the magazine began its new volume with the January issue; as a result, some issues in 1835 were double: "It is intended to begin and end every volume, hereafter, with the beginning and end of the year; and it was with this view that the publisher, during the present year, has sometimes issued two numbers stitched together like one...." ["About Volume Fourth of Parley's Magazine, for the Year 1836." 3 (1835): 61]

relevant quotes:
• On the founding: "The publication of Parley's Magazine was commenced by Lilly, Wait & Co. of Boston, in 1833. Mr. Colman, the active agent and proprietor of the work, obtained permission of 'Peter Parley' ... to use his title to this magazine, who was to be remunerated accordingly. The three or four first numbers, we believe, were supervised by this old gentleman, but it was in the charge of a sub-editor the remainder of the year. Mr. Colman now found that the work could be made more acceptable to its readers by different management, and he proposed to its name-giver a certain specified sum to relinquish it entirely to the publishers; which offer was embraced, and Dr. Alcott took charge of the editorial department. ... [W]e cannot help quoting for the information of our little readers part of a letter written by 'Peter Parley' to the projectors of the work when they asked him for his name. 'I am very glad to hear that you are about to publish a little magazine for children. I cannot undertake to become its editor, as you desire, for my quill is nearly worn to the stump ...' He accordingly did not furnish many articles for the work.... The above statement, in regard to the origin and progress of our magazine, was thought necessary because many persons, not subscribers, thinking 'Peter Parley' to be the editor, might be deterred from subscribing. We are happy to be enabled to state that the name is legitimate, was bought of its owner at a high price, and can be sustained as usual with the same means it has always enjoyed." (Parley's Magazine. Dec 1841; p. 392; in Dechert) Goodrich's blunt reply appeared in several magazines and reminded readers that he was "the veritable Peter Parley."

• Prospectus: "The design of the publishers, in this Magazine, is to offer to the public an entertaining work for children and youth; one that may become with them a favorite; one that will please and instruct them .... It will consist chiefly of matters of fact, and the editors will endeavor to present truth and knowledge in a guise attractive to the youthful mind, as that in which fiction has generally been arrayed. The title of the work is chosen, as an indication of what it is intended shall be its character. The style which the author of Peter Parley's Tales has chosen as a vehicle of instruction for youth, will be adopted in its pages, and Peter Parley, in his proper character of story teller and traveller, will often appear as a contributor. The work will comprise pieces adapted to all stages of the youthful faculties from childhood upwards. It may thus pass from hand to hand in the family circle...." [Prospectus. 1 (16 March 1833)]

• In 1834, Caroline Gilman announced the absorption of the Juvenile Rambler by Parley's, and William Alcott's new job as editor: "The able Editor of this little paper has transferred his talents to 'Parley's Magazine,' which will lend that excellent work an additional value. 'If I were not Alexander, I should like to be Diogenes.' If we were not the Southern Rose Bud, we should like to be Parley's Magazine." ["The Juvenile Rambler." Southern Rose Bud. 2 (22 Feb 1834): 103]

• The American Annals of Education pointed out where the Rambler failed and Parley's succeeded: "[The Rambler's] price and subscription list did not authorise a sufficient amount of illustrations. The Parley Magazine, with its splendid illustrations, only needed a change in its character, and the Rambler has been united with it, to accomplish the great object more effectually. The plan proposed for the future volumes will render it a valuable publication to every family; and the engagement of the late Editor of the Rambler to assist in it, will, we trust, secure its execution." ["Parley's Magazine." American Annals of Education. 4 (Feb 1834): 100]

• In 1836, the number of pages in each issue doubled: "In the progress of the last three years, I have paid you between seventy and eighty of these visits. Every other Saturday, hot or cold, rain, snow, or sunshine, summer or winter, sick or well, I have put on my best dress, and hastened to meet your smiling faces, to present you with sixteen pages of valuable reading, such as I had been a whole fortnight in collecting. Now, though I love your society as well as I did three years ago, and have a gread deal better, and though I have as many stories to tell you as I could relate in twenty years more, yet I have concluded to alter, for this year, the time of making my visits. Instead of coming every other Saturday, you may now look for me only about half as often; that is, at the beginning of every month. ... If I do not come to see you as often as formerly, I shall stay twice as long when I do come...." ["New Year's Address." 4 (Jan 1836): 1]

• William Alcott, who went from editing the Juvenile Rambler to editing Parley's when it absorbed the Rambler, found editing less than profitable: "We were employed by the philanthropic proprietor of the 'Juvenile Rambler,' to edit that paper for him about two years, till it was merged in Parley's Magazine. Subsequently we edited Parley's Magazine four years--we will not say with what success--we leave that to others. We will only say that had we sailed under the flag of a sect or party, and had other people been as willing as ourselves to 'work for nothing and keep themselves,' we have no doubt both works would have been better supported than they were; and we might have been willing longer to bear the burden of editing the latter." ["Youth's Penny Paper"; p. 336]

absorbed: Juvenile Rambler (also Classical Journal and Scholar's Review; Juvenile Rambler, or, Family and School Journal); 4 Jan 1832-26 Dec 1833 • Youth's Literary Gazette ; 1 Dec 1832-Oct 1833

merged with: Robert Merry's Museum ; Feb 1841-Nov 1872

source of information: 1833-1844 scattered issues & bound volumes; Eastern Magazine; Dechert; Kelly

available: APS II (1800-1850), reels 669-670 (microfilm was made from copies edited for reprinting); excerpts online

bibliography: Notices. Boston Morning Post. 3 (1 Feb 1833): 3. 3 (6 March 1833): 4. 3 (8 March 1833): 4.
• Review. The Ladies' Magazine, and Literary Gazette. 6 (April 1833): 187. online
• "Items for Youth." Rose Bud. 1 (15 June 1833): 167. online
• Review. The Rural Repository. 10 (August 31, 1833): 55. online
• Review. The Ladies' Magazine, and Literary Gazette. 6 (August 1833): 376. online
• "Parley's Magazine." American Annals of Education. 4 (Feb 1834): 100. online
• "The Juvenile Rambler." Southern Rose Bud. 2 (22 Feb 1834): 103. online
• "Popular Periodicals." American Annals of Education. (Jan 1835): 32-34. online
• Review. Eastern Magazine. 1 (July 1835): 64. online
• Review. American Annals of Education. 7 (February 1837): 96. online
• Notice. The Knickerbocker. 9 (January 1837): 100. online
• "The Youth's Penny Paper." American Annals of Education. 8 (July 1838): pp. 335-336. online
• Notice. Brother Jonathan. 1 (April 9, 1842): 409. online
• Mabel F. Altstetter. "Early American Magazines for Children." Peabody Journal of Education 19 (Nov 1941); p. 132.
• Frank Luther Mott. "Parley's Magazine," in A History of American Magazines: vol 1, 1841-1850. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 1938. pp. 622-623.
• Dorothy B. Dechert. "The Merry Family: A Study of Merry's Museum, 1841-1872, and of the Various Periodicals that Merged with It." MA thesis. Columbia University, 1942.
• Betty Longenecker Lyon. "A History of Children's Secular Magazines Published in the United States from 1789-1899." PhD diss. Johns Hopkins, 1942; pp. 109-115.
• John B. Crume. "Children's Magazines, 1826-1857." Journal of Popular Culture 7 (1973): 698-706.
• Jill Delano Sweiger. "Conceptions of Children in American Juvenile Periodicals: 1830-1870." PhD diss. Rutgers University, 1977.
Children's Periodicals of the United States, ed. R. Gordon Kelly. Westport, CT & London, England: Greenwood Press, 1984.

Juvenile Watchman ; 8 March, 26 April-3 May, 17 May 1833-1835

edited by: William Nichols

published: Boston, MA: William Nichols, at the office of the Christian Watchman; publisher at 127 Washington St., 8 March 1833-25 Feb 1834; publisher at "Wilson's Lane, over Mechanics' Reading Room, a few doors from State Street, and near the rear of the United States Branch Bank," March 1834-1835

frequency: weekly

description: 1834: prices: 1 copy, $1/ year, paid in advance, otherwise, $1.50/ year; 6 copies, $5/ year, paid in advance, "and that proportion for a larger number"

• No issue for May 10 1833 • At this time, William Nichols also edited the Christian Watchman

relevant information: A few notices of the Watchman list contents of individual issues: for vol 1 #2, see the Christian Watchman, 14 (26 April 1833), p. 67; for vol 1 #3, see the Christian Watchman, 14 (3 May 1833), p. 70; for vol 1 #4, see the Christian Watchman, 14 (17 May 1833), p. 79; for vol 1 #25, see the Christian Watchman, 14 (4 Oct 1833), p. 159; for vol 1 #26, see the Christian Watchman, 14 (11 Oct 1833), p. 163; for vol 2 #6, see the Christian Watchman, 15 (23 May 1834), p. 83

• The Christian Watchman reprinted "A Little Thief," a story from the Juvenile Watchman [15 (11 April 1834): 58]

relevant quotes:
• On the founding: "The Publisher was long since requested to issue a paper for the Young. He has at length determined to propose such an one for patronage, to which he gives the title, 'Juvenile Watchman.' Its object shall be to teach children to watch themselves, and not to be offended when they are watched over in love. He will issue a specimen next week." [Christian Watchman. 14 (1 March 1833): 35]

• The specimen issue was sent to subscribers to the Christian Watchman: "We send a specimen No. of our proposed new paper to a part of our subscribers and all in New-England may expect a copy within three or four days." [14 (8 March 1833): 39] "We would thank those persons who intend subscribing to the Juvenile Watchman to send us their names as soon as they conveniently can, in order that we may know what number to print, as we have concluded to commence the regular publication about the time we stated in the specimen number." [Christian Watchman. 14 (3 April 1833): 54]

• The Watchman's circulation was disappointingly small: "The first volume of this weekly visitor to the Children in our Christian families will close in two or three weeks. Some of our brethren, whose opinions we respect, have expressed themselves favourably of its merits and utility and have subscribed for it, for the benefit of their families. The patronage, however, has been so small, that the Publisher is almost discouraged in continuing it. He therefore submits a final decision in the matter to his friends; and should a sufficient number of subscribers appear for the next volume, he will cheerfully proceed in its publication. He requests that notices from subscribers, post paid, may be forwarded without delay." [Christian Watchman. 15 (28 March 1834): 50]

• The second year started on a dismal note: "Almost disheartened with the poor encouragement which this little weekly visitor has received from the public, the Publisher had come to the conclusion in the last week, as he thought, to discontinue its publication, and had written his valedictory. Since then, however, though he has received but few new subscribers, and some have fallen off, he has revised the determination of last week, in the hope that this friends will 'strain a nerve' to add to his list of subscribers. If every one who now takes the Juvenile Watchman will obtain an additional subscriber, the encouragement will be adequate to its sustenance. But as some may not even do this, he cherishes the hope that others will obtain their two or three. ... To give but one specimen of the feeling in this affair, our readers are here presented with an extract of a letter from an esteemed Baptist minister, who promises to make an effort to increase our subscribers, if the paper is continued. His letter thus remarks:--'Permit me to say a word in relation to the Juvenile Watchman. I have now taken it almost a year, and have carefully observed its influence upon the mind of my little girl (now 7 years old) and I must say that it has been happy. I presume to say that she would not have derived so much advantage or pleasure from the perusal of ten dollars' worth of the most choice selection of books. Your paper has been a constant feast to her. When she saw your notice in the last Watchman, her eyes filled with tears, and for a while she was inconsolable. From what I can learn, the paper is exerting the best influence among children; and I do hope it will be supported.'" [Christian Watchman. 15 (11 April 1834): 59]

• In 1835, the Watchman was absorbed by the Youth's Companion: "The Juvenile Watchman, recently published by Mr. William Nichols, at the office of the Christian Watchman, is discontinued, and Mr. Nichols has kindly recommended to the Subscribers to that paper to take the Youth's Companion in its stead. We shall accordingly send the Youth's Companion to those persons who have heretofore taken the Juvenile Watchman--but we are far from intending to obtrude this paper upon them, if they do not wish it. All persons, therefore, who may receive the Youth's Companion and do not wish to be considered as Subscribers, are requested to write their NAME and place of RESIDENCE on the paper, with the word STOP, and return it by mail to N. Willis, 19 Water-street, Boston. This will save postage. Persons who do not give such notice, in 2 or 3 weeks, will be considered as consenting to become Subscribers to the Youth's Companion, according to the terms printed on the title page." ["Juvenile Watchman." Youth's Companion. 8 (17 April 1835): 193]

absorbed by: Youth's Companion ; 16 April, 6 June 1827-Sept 1929

source of information: Youth's Companion; Christian Watchman

bibliography: "Juvenile Watchman." Christian Watchman. 14 (1 March 1833): 35. online
• "Juvenile Watchman." Christian Watchman. 14 (8 March 1833): 39. online
• "Juvenile Watchman." Christian Watchman. 14 (3 April 1833): 54. online
• "Juvenile Watchman." Christian Watchman. 14 (26 April 1833): 67. online
• "Juvenile Watchman--No. 3." Christian Watchman. 14 (3 May 1833): 70. online
• "Juvenile Watchman--No. 4." Christian Watchman. 14 (17 May 1833): 79. online
• "Juvenile Watchman." Christian Watchman. 14 (4 Oct 1833): 159. online
• "Juvenile Watchman." Christian Watchman. 14 (11 Oct 1833): 163. online
• "The Juvenile Watchman." Christian Watchman. 15 (28 March 1834): 50. online
• "Juvenile Watchman, 2d Year." Christian Watchman. 15 (11 April 1834): 59. online
• "Juvenile Watchman--Vol. 2. No. 6." Christian Watchman. 15 (23 May 1834): 83. online
• "Juvenile Watchman." Youth's Companion. 8 (17 April 1835): 193. online

The Juvenile Repository ; 6 July 1833-1834?

edited by: "a lady"

published: Boston, MA: Benjamin H. Greene, Leonard C. Bowles.

frequency: weekly; 4 vol/ year

description: 1833: 24 pp.; page size, 5.5" h x 3.25" w.
• Volume 1 reprinted at least once
• Last volume located is volume 5

relevant quotes: "My Little Friends, I shall dedicate this work to you. I trust you will find it both interesting and instructive. I shall write to you on a variety of subjects;--they will be those in connection with your studies at school, your daily amusements, and your happy homes. I shall endeavor to make it suitable for your afternoons of leisure; and, as a part of it will be devoted to scripture history and sacred geography, it will not be improper for a Sabbath-day friend." ["To My Young Readers." 1 (6 July 1833): 1; 2nd ed.]

• "I shall write a story every week for my young readers--an original one, I mean, and in it I shall always blend some useful hints from which they may derive improvement. But let me first preface a remark or two. You must not let the mere story, which will amuse you while you are reading it, pass from your memories as you throw it aside; but should you see any thing bearing a resemblance to your own feelings which was corrected in another, I trust you will use similar means to correct yourself." ["Entertaining Matter." 1 (6 July 1833): 3; 2nd ed.]

• "In this age of books, it is with singular diffidence that I add another to the long catalogue. But I have been so situated as to witness the eagerness of children after the most common "story books," or perhaps inhaling a more pernicious atmosphere in places of public amusement. I would therefore beg leave to suggest the propriety of adding mirth to wisdom, and instruction with play and jollity; knowing them to be better nutriment to the youthful mind than abstract reasoning or dry metaphysics." ["A Word to Parents." 1 (6 July 1833): 2; 2nd ed.]

• "The first volume of the Juvenile Repository, was completed with the last number. The success which continues to attend it, seems to warrant the Editor in still continuing it. ... The variety of its pages, causes the articles to be necessarily short. Any contributors who may furnish useful matter, suited to the object of the work, will receive the thanks of the Editor, by leaving them to the care of the publishers." ["To the Patrons of the Repository." 2 (1833): 1.]

source of information: bound volumes 1-3, 5; OCLC; AAS catalog; NUC

Pupil's Monitor ; 7 Dec 1833-8 Nov 1834

edited by: 1833-1834, a teacher • 1834, S. Weston

published: Providence, RI: Silas Weston

frequency: semimonthly

description: Page size, 9.75" h

source of information: AAS catalog

Youth's Lyceum and Literary Gazette ; 1834-1836?

published: Xenia, OH

description: Page size, 19.5" h • Newspaper format
• 16 Feb 1835 is vol 1 #17

source of information: OCLC

The Child's Newspaper ; 7 Jan-Sept 1834

cover/masthead: 1834

edited by: Thomas Brainerd; Benjamin Parham Aydelott, assistant ed.

published: Cincinnati, OH: Corey & Fairbank; publisher at 186 Main St.

frequency: semimonthly

description: 4 pp.; prices: 1 copy, $1/ year; 4 copies, $3/ year; 7 copies, $5/ year; 15 copies, $10/ year

• Editors working under the supervision of a committee appointed by the Cincinnati Sunday School Union: W. S. Ridgely (of the Presbyterian Church), Jeremiah Butler (of the Episcopal Church), William Bond (of the Baptist Church), and Joseph Hudson (of the Protestant Methodist Church). Profits were "devoted to the American Sunday School Union."

relevant quote: Introduction: "To all Children and Youth West of the Alleghany Mountains. My Dear Young Friends,--You have seen a great many newspapers, which were made for your fathers and mothers, and for your older brothers and sisters. This little newspaper, which you now hold in your hands, is intended for you. It is not so large as other newspapers, but it contains more that you will be pleased to read, than most of the larger papers. It was made small so that you could get it cheap. ... But you ask where it is printed? It is printed at Cincinnati, in the State of Ohio. You have heard of that city, and some of you live in it and know all about it. ... Do you ask how often these little newspapers will be sent to you? Once in two weeks. You will get twenty six in a year.--If you are careful not to lose one, nor tear one up, at the end of the year your mother or sister will sew them together, and make you a very interesting book. Do you inquire how much these little papers will cost? Only one dollar a year. By saving two cents a week, for fifty weeks from the little sums which your friends give you, and sending it to Messrs. Corey & Fairbank, Cincinnati, you can have The Child's Newspaper a year." ["To All Children and Youth West of the Alleghany Mountains." 1 (7 Jan 1834): 1]

continued by: Youth's Magazine ; 30? Sept 1834-21 July 1837, Sept 1837-after May 1838

source of information: APS reel 400; Dechert

available: APS II (1800-1850), reel 400

bibliography: Notice. Western Monthly Magazine. 2 (Feb 1834): 107. online
• Dorothy Dechert. "The Merry Family: A Study of Merry's Museum, 1841-1872, and of the Various Periodicals that Merged with It." MA thesis. Columbia University, 1942.

The Child's Universalist Gazette, and Monthly Visiter ; 12 July 1834-

published: Boston, MA: Daniel D. Smith

frequency: monthly

description: Page size, 6.25" h

source of information: AAS catalog

Youth's Magazine ; 30? Sept 1834-21 July 1837, Sept 1837-after May 1838

edited by: 1834-1836, Thomas Brainerd • 17 March 1837-?, Orlando Chester

published: Cincinnati, OH: Taylor & Tracy, 1834-1835. • Cincinnati, OH: E. W. Chester & W. Fitch Barnes, 1836-1837.

frequency: 1834-July 1837, biweekly. Sept-Nov 1837, monthly.

description: Sept 1834-1837: 16 pp.; price, under $2
• 17 March-Nov 1837: 32 pp.; duodecimo; page size, 6.25" h x 5" w; price, $2
• New series began 17 March 1837
• No Aug 1837 issue
• Circulation (from magazine): 8 Dec 1834, 1500.

continues: The Child's Newspaper ; 7 Jan-Sept 1834

absorbed by: (1) The Mentor and Fireside Review (for young adults); Jan-Dec 1839; (2) Youth's Cabinet ; 28 April 1837-March 1857

relevant quote: About the mergers: "Mr. Taylor, under the impression that the Fireside Review was not satisfactory to the subscribers to the Youth's Magazine, and it being chargeable with postage when returned, has declined continuing it to them. I have therefore made an arrangement with Mr. N. Southard to replace the Magazine with the Youth's Cabinet.... The readers of the Youth's Magazine have often been interested with extracts and articles from the Cabinet while it was published in Boston." [Youth's Cabinet. 2 (20 June 1839): 98]

source of information: Jan-Nov 1837 bound vol; Dechert; Youth's Cabinet; AAS catalog; OCLC

available: excerpts online

bibliography: Youth's Cabinet. 2 (20 June 1839): 98
• Dorothy B. Dechert. "The Merry Family: A Study of Merry's Museum, 1841-1872, and of the Various Periodicals that Merged with It." MA thesis. Columbia University, 1942.

The Branch ; 1835-1836

published: Poughkeepsie, NY

frequency: weekly

description: Page size, 15.25" h

absorbed by: Youth's Guide to Piety and Virtue, and Literary Casket ; 3 Sept 1836-after 5 Aug 1837

source of information: Lyon; OCLC

bibliography: Betty Longenecker Lyon. "A History of Children's Secular Magazines Published in the United States from 1789-1899." PhD diss. Johns Hopkins, 1942; pp. 116-121.

The Child's Gazette ; 15 Jan 1835-

published: Boston, MA?

frequency: monthly

description: Page size, 5.5" h • Universalist focus

source of information: OCLC; NUC

Sunday School Magazine ; 1835-1851

published: New York, NY: Lane & Tippett, for the Sunday School Union of the Methodist Episcopal Church, 1846; printed by J. Collord

frequency: monthly

description: 1846: 32 pp.; page size, 5.75" h x 3.5" w

source of information: 1846 bound vol

The Sunday School Visiter ; 1835-Dec 1838 • Journal of Religious Education, and Family and Sunday-School Visiter ; Jan-Dec 1839 • Journal of Christian education, and Family and Sunday-School Visiter ; 1840-1842

edited by: Benjamin Peers & Benjamin Haight, 1839-1842

published: New York, NY: General Protestant Episcopal Sunday School Union.

frequency: monthly; 1 vol/ year

description: 1835-1838: Page size, 7" h • 1839-1842: Page size, 9" h

source of information: AAS catalog; OCLC

The Juvenile Missionary Intelligencer ; March 1835-Feb 1838

published: Philadelphia, PA: the Juvenile Foreign Missionary Society of the First Reformed Presbyterian Church.

frequency: monthly; 1 vol/ year

description: Page size, 7" h

source of information: NUC; OCLC

Slave's Friend ; 1836-1839

cover/masthead: 1836 | 1837

published: New York, NY: American Anti-Slavery Society.

frequency: monthly; 12 issues/ vol

description: 16 pp.; page size, 4.5" h x 2.75" w; price, 1¢/ issue; 10¢/ dozen; 80¢/ 100; $6.50/ 1000
• Circulation, 25,000-50,000?
• The magazine was distributed not just through paid subscriptions, but by being left in public places in same way in which religious tracts were distributed.
• Early issues contained three illustrations; after the first year, most issues appear to have contained two. A handful of stock illustrations were used again and again.
• 38 issues total

relevant quotes:
• Founding the magazine: "As soon after the Annual meeting of the American [Anti-Slavery] Society, as it was practicable, the enlarged plan of publication and distribution went into operation. The Emancipator, Human Rights, the Record, and the Slave's Friend, each of them monthly periodicals, issued in successive weeks, at New York, were all published in large editions, and were scattered unsparingly through the land." The annual meeting was held 20 Jan 1836. [Report; p. 17]

• The Friend was written to be easily understood: "The Slave's Friend is printed for children. The editor wants to have them love the poor slaves. He has tried to write this little book so that very young children can understand it. It is hoped that all the little boys and girls in the land may read it." (#1; back cover)

• Nathaniel Southard notes in the 16 May 1839 issue of the Youth's Cabinet that "A new and interesting Number [of the Slave's Friend] has just been published. Price one cent." [p. 78]

• Frances E. Willard, who became prominent in the temperance and women's rights movements, credited the lessons she learned from reading the Friend: "'The Slave's Friend,' that earliest book of all my reading, stamped upon me the purpose to help humanity, the sense of brotherhood, of all nations as really one, and of God as the equal Father of all races. This, perhaps, was a better sort of religion than some Sunday-school books would have given. It occurs to me that I have not estimated at its true value that nugget of a little fanatical volume published for children by the Anti-slavery Society." (Willard; p. 8)

source of information: #1-38 bound vol & scattered issues; Cabinet; Report; Kelly

available: microfilm: Nineteenth-century children's periodicals. Westport, CT: Greenwood Press, 1979.
online

bibliography: Fourth Annual Report of the Board of Managers of the Massachusetts Anti-Slavery Society. Reproduction: Westport, CT: Negro Universities Press, Greenwood Press, 1970.
• Notice. Youth's Cabinet. 2 (16 May 1839): 78. online
• Frances E. Willard. Glimpses of Fifty Years. Chicago, IL: H. J. Smith & Co., 1889. Reproduced New York, NY: Source Book Press, 1970.
Children's Periodicals of the United States, ed. R. Gordon Kelly. Westport, CT & London, England: Greenwood Press, 1984.
• Holly Keller. "Juvenile Antislavery Narrative and Notions of Childhood." Children's Literature, 24 (1996): 86-100.
• Christopher D. Geist. "The Slave's Friend: An Abolitionist Magazine for Children." American Periodicals 9 (1999): 27-35.
• Deborah C. De Rosa. Domestic Abolitionism and Juvenile Literature, 1830-1865. Albany, NY: State University of New York Press, 2003.

The Family School ; 1 Sept-Oct 1836

edited by: Elizabeth Palmer Peabody

published: Boston, MA: Marsh, Capen & Lyon

frequency: weekly

description: Page size, 9.75" h • 2 issues?

relevant information: Marshall calls the work "a family magazine with a Transcendental flavor." Most of the works were written by Peabody and her family. [p. 328]

• Marshall notes that Peabody "sent the magazine to a wide circle of associates with the advisory that she would assume they wished to subscribe unless the publication was returned to her by mail." It didn't work. [p. 543]

source of information: AAS catalog; Marshall

bibliography: Megan Marshall. The Peabody Sisters. Boston