The Hobos Hornbook - Paperback

by George Milburn (Author)

"The Hobos Hornbook" is a landmark collection of American folklore that captures the vibrant and often gritty voices of the itinerant men who traversed the United States by rail during the early 20th century. Compiled by George Milburn, this anthology serves as a comprehensive record of hobo songs, ballads, and poems, offering an unfiltered look into a distinct subculture shaped by wanderlust, hardship, and a fierce spirit of independence.

Within these pages, readers will find the rhythmic expressions born in the "jungle" camps and boxcars of a bygone era. The verses reflect the diverse experiences of the hobo-ranging from lighthearted tall tales and satirical jabber to poignant laments regarding poverty, law enforcement, and the railroad life. As a significant work of cultural preservation, "The Hobos Hornbook" documents the unique vernacular and social codes of the American wanderer, preserving a rich tradition of oral history and musical expression.

This volume is an essential resource for those interested in Americana, folk music, and the social history of the American worker. It stands as a testament to the resilience and creativity of the wandering class, providing both literary and historical value through its authentic portrayal of life on the margins of society.

This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you may see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.

This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.

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