Founded by Elbert Hubbard in 1897, the Roycroft Campus in East Aurora was one of the original centers of the American Arts & Crafts Movement. Since receiving National Historic Landmark status in 1986, the Campus has undergone restoration to stabilize, rebuild, and revitalize the historic structures and grounds, while also welcoming thousands of visitors seeking a spark of inspiration.
The historic growth of the Roycroft Campus was largely caused by a short essay written by Elbert Hubbard that went “viral.” A Message to Garcia, first published in March 1899, was Hubbard’s interpretation of a Spanish-American War event and its representation of the American Dream – hard work leads to success. This essay sold millions of copies and became the third best-selling book of its time. Because of the popularity of A Message to Garcia, the Roycroft Campus expanded, Elbert Hubbard became a household name, and the business continued operation until 1938.
Today, the historic Print Shop building is owned and operated by the Roycroft Campus Corporation (RCC). The RCC is pleased to announce that the presses are once again in operation in the historic Print Shop, and A Message to Garica is being printed on the Roycroft Campus for the first time since 1938. For the RCC staff, volunteers, and board members, this project has truly embodied the “Head, Heart, Hand” philosophy.
Under the guidance of Roycroft Campus Resident Printer Necole Witcher, they have experimented with different types of paper, ink, and binding methods to produce a work fitting the cultural significance of A Message to Garcia and carrying on the legacy of the early Roycrofters. This includes a limited edition of one-of-a-kind, handmade bindings by Roycroft Renaissance Artisan Diane Bond.
The first run of A Message to Garcia from the Roycroft Campus in 86 years was released in March, its 125th anniversary. Three different editions can now be purchased at the Copper Shop Gallery, located on the Roycroft Campus, open Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
