Collecting Shakespeare: The Story of Henry and Emily Folger

Discover the captivating story of Henry and Emily Folger, the visionaries behind the largest and most exquisite collection of Shakespeare in the world. In "Collecting Shakespeare," Stephen H. Grant delivers an awe-inspiring tale of how this dynamic duo embarked on a journey to preserve the literary legacy of Shakespeare.

Henry and Emily Folger's love for Shakespeare drove them to tirelessly acquire, catalog, and safeguard an extensive array of priceless artifacts from the Bard's era. This power couple, fueled by their passion and determination, built a remarkable collection during the Gilded Age. With Emily's acquired master's degree in Shakespeare studies and Henry's successful career as the president of Standard Oil Company of New York, they were able to channel their love of Shakespeare into a lifelong mission.

While others offered to house the collection, the Folgers were adamant about making it accessible to the American people. To ensure the preservation of their namesake, they clandestinely acquired prestigious property on Capitol Hill near the Library of Congress. The result? The grandeur of the Folger Shakespeare Library, an iconic institution dedicated to Shakespeare's works.

The library stands as a testament to the Folgers' unwavering commitment, housing 82 First Folios, over 277,000 books, and 60,000 manuscripts. Each year, it welcomes over 100,000 visitors from around the world, giving scholars, researchers, and students unparalleled access to these invaluable collections. Furthermore, it serves as a vibrant cultural hub, hosting a variety of engaging programs, from theater and concerts to inspiring lectures and mesmerizing poetry readings.

Through exclusive access to the Folger vault, author Stephen H. Grant takes you on a captivating journey, enriched by interviews with surviving Folger relatives and investigations into 35 related archives. Immerse yourself in the story of the Folgers, the remarkable couple who ensured Shakespeare's legacy had a beautiful home in America.

Experience the legacy of Henry and Emily Folger today. Shop now to explore the rich world of Shakespearean literature and immerse yourself in the timeless works of the Bard.