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The famed Somerville Round House...



Item # 679561

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April 01, 1854

AMERICAN PHRENOLOGICAL JOURNAL, New York, April, 1854  Phrenology is a theory stating that the personality traits of a person can be derived from the shape of the skull. Although holding no validity today, it was a popular science in the mid-19th century and this periodical focused on it.
Perhaps of most interest is a very early print of the: "Circular House at Somerville, Mass." which exists to this day, and about which are a number of websites. This print was from 2 years before its final construction and lacks the 2nd story. Its designer,
Enoch Robinson, had a connection with Orson Fowler, the publisher of this newspaper.
Inside has a lengthy article on: "John Thomas - A Phrenological Character, Biography, and Portrait" which begins: "The accompanying likeness indicates great cerebral energy, and a superior frontal lobe. All the temperments are very strong...That the muscular system is most powerful is evinced by his prominent nose...All his features are strongly marked..." with much more.
Complete in 24 pages, 9 by 11 1/4 inches, very nice condition.

Category: Post-Civil War