In 1851, Stephen C. Foster purchased a blank notebook, in which he wrote original manuscripts for both famous songs such as "My Old Kentucky Home, Good-Night!" and "Old Folks at Home," as well as lesser-known songs such as "The Little Ballad Girl," "Ellen Bayne," and "Jenny's Coming O'er the Green." Never published in its entirety, this first edition of Stephen C. Foster's manuscript book preserves his original notes and marginalia while offering valuable insights into the creative process of America's first professional composer.

In 1851, Stephen C. Foster purchased a blank notebook, in which he wrote original manuscripts for both famous songs such as "My Old Kentucky Home, Good-Night!" and "Old Folks at Home," as well as lesser-known songs such as "The Little Ballad Girl," "Ellen Bayne," and "Jenny's Coming O'er the Green." Never published in its entirety, this first edition of Stephen C. Foster's manuscript book preserves his original notes and marginalia while offering valuable insights into the creative process of America's first professional composer.