David Bellamy Papers

Résumé du livre

The David Bellamy Papers are primarily concerned with the controversy surrounding the authorship of the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. Originally drafted in 1892 for a nation-wide Columbus Day Celebration, at the time the Pledge was written no specific individual was credited with its authorship. Rather, in reference to the magazine which sponsored the initial program, it became known as the "Youth's Companion Flag Pledge." As the Pledge gained fame many were eager to claim credit for its authorship; however the controversy focused primarily on two individuals--James Upham and Francis Bellamy. The latter's claim was supported by his son, David Bellamy, who spent a number of years substantiating his father's claim and gaining public recognition for him as author of the Pledge. The collection consists of affidavits, articles, reports and correspondence which were gathered through David Bellamy's successful efforts to establish the authenticity of his father's claim. Included also is publicity and memorial information which attributes the authorship of the Pledge to Francis Bellamy