It took the suffrage movement a long time to achieve its goals, not surprising when you see some of the attacks and ridicule heaped upon it. Some of it became particularly pronounced in the decade of the teens in the 20th century, as Congress came closer to granting women the right to vote. In an attempt to convince those who could vote, namely men, those opposed frequently depicted women's suffrage as somehow leading to the submissiveness and emasculation of men. Here is a printed song that not only denigrates women, but also manages to denigrate Italians at the same time. Double duty. The song is entitled Since My Margarette Become-a-da Suffragette, lyrics by Will D. Cobb, music by Gus Edwards, published in 1913. The cover image depicts an Italian immigrant on his knees pleading before his nose-upturned, traditionally dressed wife. Item 441. $450.
The other side is represented by this 1916 set of sheet music by lyricist Alfred Bryan with music by Herman Paley. Its cover depicts a woman by an open window with a smiling baby girl waving out. The title is a statement designed to be embarrassing to any supposed family man who opposed suffrage - She's Good Enough to be Your Baby's Mother and She's Good Enough to Vote with You. Item 444. $500.
Lorne Bair Rare Books may be reached at 540-665-0855 or info@lornebair.com. Their website is www.lornebair.com.
