Autograph books were popular, from the 15th century until the mid-19th century, as a means for collecting autographs, small sketches, drawings, paintings, pieces of verse, sage advise and other mementos.
Such books offered masters of penmanship an outlet for practicing their copperplate skills (pointed pen calligraphy) with decorative flourishes and elaborate pictorial designs. The temperament and ethos of an era are captured within these pages.
Stratfordites wishing to improve their penmanship and learn calligraphy and flourish styles went to Central Business College, located on the second floor of the Gordon Block.
– Nancy Musselman