E. Werden, Pittsfield, Massachusetts

Elias Werden (1816-1891) entered into the book store business by 1842 in Pittsfield with E. P. Little who had opened a bookstore shortly before. After buying Little's interest out, Werden expanded opening a second shop by 1861 in Indianapolis (Werden & Co.). In 1857 Werden associated with Frederick Stein to form "Stein & Werden". By 1858 Werden was by himself as a bookseller and was also selling various house furnishing goods. Subsequently Werden left the bookselling and publishing business altogether and sold step-ladders and picture frames. The latter business was not a success and as a house furnishing goods manufacturer he went bankrupt.

E. Werden published two sets of chapbooks. The 1847 and 1848 sets appear to have the same titles. There is no evidence that here were more than ten books published although most sets of chapbooks in this era did have twelve titles.

The known numbering is shown below.
Each book is illustrated and has eight pages (twelve pages with the covers).

Wraps. Various colors. Line drawn cover illustrations. 3.25" x 2.25".

1847

1848