Hurlbut's Story of the Bible Value Guide

Written by Rev. Jesse Lyman Hurlbut, this 1904 publication revolutionized religious education as one of America's most popular children's books. Its status as a collectible stems from its 'self-pronouncing' text and its historical role as a staple in early 20th-century Methodist Episcopal households.

What affects the value of Hurlbut's Story of the Bible?

• Physical condition of the cloth binding, specifically looking for minimal fraying and intact spine gilt.
• The presence and clarity of the original illustrations throughout the 168 stories.
• Completeness of the volume, including the lack of missing pages or heavy foxing on the paper.
• The specific edition year, with first editions from 1904 generally commanding the higher end of the $25-$45 range.

How to Identify Hurlbut's Story of the Bible?

• Check for the original cloth binding and the specific 1904 copyright date by Rev. Jesse Lyman Hurlbut.
• Verify the presence of 168 distinct stories and the 'self-pronouncing' text format designed for young readers.
• Look for the characteristic early 20th-century illustrations that accompany the scripture narratives.
• Confirm the publisher's mark, typically indicating a United States origin between 1904 and 1932.

History of Hurlbut's Story of the Bible

Written by Rev. Jesse Lyman Hurlbut and first published in 1904, this work became one of the most popular children's religious books in American history. Hurlbut, a prominent Methodist Episcopal minister and Sunday School educator, designed the text to be 'self-pronouncing' and easy to read, ensuring its place in family households for over a century.