THROUGH the generosity of Dr. Frank P. O'Brien of New York, who has given this collection to the Library, it is possible to place on exhibition about fourteen hundred of those rare little books and magazines which, beginning about the year 1859, were issued in America under the broad and general title of "Dime Novels." These are separate publications from the house of Beadle and Adams, of which Erastus Beadle, the Otsego printer, was the originator and guiding spirit. The remaining 171 items in Dr. O'Brien's gift are examples of those other novels which sprang into existence as a result of the popularity with which the Beadle books were greeted from their first appearance. For lack of space, they are not in the exhibition. The collection, as shown in the Main Exhibition Room, constitutes an absorbingly interesting assemblage of a pioneer literature which has now wholly vanished, but which, for a generation, exercised a profound influence on the country's thought, character, and habits of mind.

The Beadle Collection of Dime Novels is a huge listing of which books fell into the "dime novel" category. One finds names and authors and data about publication, all neatly classified for anyone who wishes to find any favorite book.

This edition of A Thrilling Narrative of Indian Captivity rescues from obscurity a crucially important work about the bitterly contested U.S.-Dakota War of 1862. Written by Mary Butler Renville, an Anglo woman, with the assistance of her Dakota husband, John Baptiste Renville, A Thrilling Narrative was printed only once as a book in 1863 and has not been republished since. The work details the Renvilles’ experiences as “captives” among their Dakota kin in the Upper Camp and chronicles the story of the Dakota Peace Party. Their sympathetic portrayal of those who opposed the war in 1862 combats the stereotypical view that most Dakotas supported it and illumines the injustice of their exile from Dakota homelands. From the authors’ unique perspective as an interracial couple, they paint a complex picture of race, gender, and class relations on successive midwestern frontiers. As the state of Minnesota commemorates the 150th anniversary of the Dakota War, this narrative provides fresh insights into the most controversial event in the region’s history. This annotated edition includes groundbreaking historical and literary contexts for the text and a first-time collection of extant Dakota correspondence with authorities during the war.

"Deadwood Dick, The Prince of the Road" is a classic Western novel penned with the aid of Edward L. Wheeler. Set within the rugged and lawless terrain of the American frontier, the tale revolves across the charismatic and adventurous person, Deadwood Dick. The narrative unfolds with a series of gripping activities as Deadwood Dick navigates the demanding situations of the Old West. Known for his roguish allure, wit, and sharpshooting talents, Deadwood Dick will become embroiled in numerous escapades, together with confrontations with outlaws, clashes with lawmen, and the pursuit of justice. The novel captures the essence of the Wild West, with its dusty trails, saloons, and the ever-gift danger that lurks around every nook. Edward L. Wheeler's storytelling prowess shines thru as he weaves a tale of motion, suspense, and intrigue. "Deadwood Dick, The Prince of the Road" stands as a testomony to Wheeler's contribution to Western literature, offering readers with an exciting adventure into the coronary heart of frontier life, full of memorable characters and the untamed spirit of the American West.

Reproduction of the original. The publishing house Megali specialises in reproducing historical works in large print to make reading easier for people with impaired vision.

The Liberty Boys of '76 was a weekly magazine containing stories of the American Revolution. The stories were based on actual facts and give a faithful account of the exciting adventures of a brave band of American youths who were always ready and willing to imperil their lives for the sake of helping along the gallant cause of independence. This volume reprints the lead novel from issue #504, originally published August 26, 1910.