Elbert Green Hubbard is known for his literary works, especially his famous essay ‘A Message to Garcia,’ and for founding the Roycroft community. He played a key role in the Arts and Crafts movement and published ‘The Philistine’ magazine.
Through his writings and craftsmanship in the early 20th century, Hubbard influenced American design and thought. So, what is Elbert Hubbard known for? His significant contributions to literature, art, and design inspire people today.
Elbert Hubbard transitioned from being a traveling soap salesman to a respected writer, with his ‘Little Journeys to the Homes of the Great’ series and the influential essay ‘A Message to Garcia’ as significant milestones.
Hubbard founded The Philistine Magazine and the Roycroft community, both of which became hubs for progressive thought, high-quality craftsmanship, and artistic expression. These hubs heavily influenced the Arts and Crafts movement in America.
Hubbard’s legacy extends beyond his lifetime, with the principles of handcrafted quality and artistic integrity that he championed continuing to impact modern design, leading to the Roycroft Campus being designated a National Historic Landmark.
Elbert Hubbard was born on June 19, 1856, in Hudson, Illinois, a small town that would shape his early experiences and values. His mother, Juliana Frances Read, and his father, Silas Hubbard, decided to move the family to Bloomington due to the oversaturation of doctors in the area. His older sister, Hannah Frances, who later married John Larkin, was part of his early family life. Growing up in Hudson, Elbert was one of five siblings, four surviving past childhood.
Hubbard’s early life was marked by rural simplicity and entrepreneurial spirit. His physician father often involved Elbert in his work, giving him firsthand exposure to the practicalities of life and business. Hubbard’s son, Elbert Hubbard, smiled as this early exposure greatly influenced his future endeavors.
Hubbard was a traveling salesman for the Larkin Soap Company in his late teens. This role, which required resilience and a knack for persuasion, laid the foundation for his later success. Traveling across the country, he honed his communication skills and developed a deep understanding of human nature, both of which would later influence his writing and business ventures.
After years in the soap business, Hubbard had a strong desire to broaden his scope. This led him to Harvard University, where he immersed himself in studies and intellectual pursuits. During his time at Harvard, Hubbard visited Concord, Massachusetts, the birthplace of many famous writers and thinkers. This visit sparked a profound inspiration in him, creating his ‘Little Journeys to the Homes of the Great’ series.
The ‘Little Journeys’ series, a collection of human-interest biographies, explored the lives and philosophies of notable individuals. These writings, which combined personal anecdotes with philosophical musings, quickly gained popularity and established Hubbard as a thoughtful and engaging writer.
‘A Message to Garcia,’ an essay emphasizing initiative and determination, was one of Hubbard’s most significant works during this period. Inspired by a historical event during the Spanish-American War, this piece resonated deeply with readers and became an essential text in leadership and military contexts. Its success marked Hubbard’s transition from a soap salesman to a respected author and thinker.
Elbert Hubbard founded The Philistine Magazine in 1895, a monthly periodical that soon became a hub for satire, progressive political essays, and short literary works. The magazine’s irreverent and often provocative content drew in readers from all walks of life, eager for its sharp wit and insightful commentary.
Hubbard described The Philistine as bound in brown butcher paper because “there is meat inside.” This unique approach set the magazine apart visually and underscored Hubbard’s philosophy of providing substantial and thought-provoking content. The Philistine became a vehicle for Hubbard to express his homespun philosophy and critique contemporary society.
The Philistine’s influence went beyond its printed content. As a part of the Roycroft Press, the magazine contributed significantly to Hubbard’s widespread impact on his time's literary and cultural landscape. Through his writings and editorial choices, Hubbard carved out a space for independent thought and artistic expression, challenging readers to think critically about the world around them.
Elbert Hubbard established the Roycroft community in East Aurora, New York in 1895. The community was inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement. The community was named after Samuel and Thomas Roycroft, 17th-century London printers, symbolizing the ‘king’s craft’. This name embodied the community’s dedication to high-quality, handcrafted goods and artistic excellence.
In 1881, Elbert Hubbard married Bertha Crawford, a flower gardener and amateur watercolorist. Their marriage had a significant impact on his personal and professional life.
Quickly growing, the Roycroft community became the United States’ first and most successful Arts and Crafts enclave. By 1910, it had expanded to nearly 500 members, all drawn by Hubbard’s inspirational leadership and vision for a collaborative, creative society. The community’s insignia, borrowed from the 13th-century bookbinder Cassiodorus, symbolized artistic integrity and craftsmanship.
The Roycroft community, a buzzing hub of creativity and craftsmanship, housed various shops producing a multitude of handcrafted items. These included:
Each shop was dedicated to maintaining the highest quality and artistic integrity standards.
One of the community's standout features was its furniture shop, known for producing beautifully handcrafted furniture that combined functionality with artistic design. The leather shop, led by Fredrick Kranz, was renowned for its fine leather goods, including book bindings and other luxury items.
The Roycroft shops also included a fine bindery, which became famous for its high-quality book bindings. These shops not only produced highly sought-after goods but also embodied the principles of the Arts and Crafts movement, emphasizing the value of handmade, artisanal products.
| Element | Description | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Roycroft Press | Printing and publishing high-quality books | Central to the community’s mission and influence |
| Roycroft Shops | Produced handcrafted items like furniture, metalwork, and leather goods | Embodied the principles of the Arts and Crafts movement |
| The Philistine Magazine | Provided a platform for Hubbard’s and others' writings | Influenced contemporary thought and culture |
| Community Structure | Collaborative and creative society | Fostered artistic and intellectual growth |
| Educational Programs | Workshops and classes in various crafts and arts | Promoted learning and skill development within the community |
| Architectural Design | Unique and functional buildings reflecting Arts and Crafts principles | Enhanced the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the community |
| Cultural Events | Hosted lectures, exhibitions, and performances | Created a vibrant cultural environment and engaged the broader public |
| National Historic Landmark | Roycroft Campus designation | Preserves the legacy and impact of the Roycroft movement |
Established in 1893, The Roycroft Press played a pivotal part in the American Arts and Crafts movement. The press was instrumental in producing many publications, including Hubbard’s works and other significant literary and artistic pieces. This endeavor helped to solidify the Roycroft name as synonymous with quality and artistic excellence.
The print shop at Roycroft was not just a place for producing books but a center for creative expression and innovation. It published partner publications, such as ‘The Buffalo Magazine for Arts,’ furthering its influence in the literary world. The press’s dedication to craftsmanship and artistic integrity made it a significant player in the private press movement.
Through the Roycroft Press, Hubbard could disseminate his ideas and philosophies widely, contributing to his time's broader cultural and intellectual landscape. The press’s work in publishing high-quality literature and art helped elevate American publishing standards.
‘A Message to Garcia’ is recognized as Hubbard’s most famous and influential piece among his many works. This essay, which sold 40 million copies, underscores the importance of initiative and determination, traits highly valued in military leadership. Its inclusion in the Marine Corps Commandant’s reading list from 1989 to 2015 highlights its enduring relevance.
Despite its widespread acclaim, ‘A Message to Garcia’ has faced criticism for oversimplifying the complexities of leadership and decision-making. Modern military leaders argue that critical thinking and a nuanced understanding of the mission are equally essential, contrasting the essay’s straightforward philosophy.
Hubbard’s other works reflect his philosophical and critical style, often addressing war, law, and government themes. Among the numerous works Hubbard wrote, some of the most notable ones were those that Hubbard published, showcasing his exceptional talent. His writings, including those that Hubbard edited, entertained and provoked thought and discussion, cementing his legacy as a profound and influential American writer.
Elbert Hubbard’s personal life was shaped by his marriage to Alice Moore Hubbard, a prominent suffragist, and Emerson College of Oratory graduate. Their partnership was both personal and professional, with Alice playing a significant role in the Roycroft community, which was also influenced by the presence of Alice Hubbard.
Elbert Hubbard II took over the Roycroft Shops after his father and stepmother perished on the Lusitania.
Tragically, the couple died together aboard the RMS Lusitania when it was sunk by a German submarine on May 7, 1915. Their calm and composed demeanor during the sinking has been remembered as a testament to their character and love for each other.
Elbert Hubbard's mother was Juliana Frances Read Hubbard.
Hubbard’s influence on the Arts and Crafts movement stemmed from his admiration for the philosophies of John Ruskin and William Morris. These British thinkers inspired Hubbard to blend their ideals with American business acumen, creating a profitable and artistically vibrant enterprise.
The Roycroft community’s legacy transcends its physical boundaries. Its emphasis on handcrafted quality and artistic expression continues to influence American design, architecture, and reformist thought. The Roycroft Campus, consisting of 14 original buildings, was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1986, preserving its historical and cultural significance.
Today, the principles and aesthetics championed by Hubbard and the Roycroft community are evident in various aspects of modern design, from furniture to stained glass lamps. The impact of Hubbard’s vision and leadership continues to resonate, proving that the values of the Arts and Crafts movement are as relevant now as they were over a century ago.
Elbert Hubbard’s journey from a traveling soap salesman to a literary legend is a remarkable story of creativity, perseverance, and influence. Through his various endeavors, including The Philistine Magazine and the Roycroft community, Hubbard left an indelible mark on American culture. His works, particularly ‘A Message to Garcia,’ continue to inspire and provoke thought, reflecting his enduring legacy.
After Elbert Hubbard's death, his son, Bert, took over the Roycroft community, continuing his father's legacy.
In summary, Hubbard’s contributions to literature and the Arts and Crafts movement have impacted American society. His ability to blend artistic ideals with practical business sense created a unique and influential legacy that inspires new generations of artists, writers, and thinkers. Hubbard’s story is a testament to the power of vision and determination to transform ordinary lives into extraordinary legacies.
Elbert Hubbard was inspired to start writing by visiting Concord, Massachusetts, during his time at Harvard, which led to his famous 'Little Journeys to the Homes of the Great' series.
"A Message to Garcia" is an essay emphasizing the importance of initiative and determination in leadership.
The Roycroft community was known for contributing to the Arts and Crafts movement, producing handcrafted items, and fostering artistic expression. Their work had a significant impact on the artistic community.
Elbert Hubbard died aboard the RMS Lusitania when it was sunk by a German submarine in 1915.
The Roycroft Campus remains a National Historic Landmark, representing the impact of the Arts and Crafts movement on American design and architecture. It holds great significance in preserving this cultural heritage.
Author Bio: Pam of Reading Vintage
Pam is the passionate owner and curator behind Reading Vintage, a small home-based business nestled in the Great Lakes Bay Region of Michigan. With a keen eye for discovering rare literary gems at estate sales, Pam has dedicated herself to preserving and sharing the timeless beauty of vintage books.
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