J. J. Somers Papers

Collection — Box: 1

Identifier: OGLMC-432

Scope and Contents

The J. J. Somers Papers consists of Jim's Western Gems, a book of poetry written by Somers in 1913. The book is 114 pages in length and was published by the author. Much of the poetry has a distinct North Dakota theme, although several poems were written regarding the area near Duluth. The poetry also has a political flavor with several poems about William Jennings Bryan.

Dates

created: 1913

Creator

Somers, J.J. (James Joseph) (Person)

Conditions Governing Access

Open for inspection under the rules and regulations of the Elwyn B. Robinson Department of Special Collections.

Biographical or Historical Information

James Joseph Somers was born in 1865, the son of Martin Somers. He wrote his first piece of poetry when he was twelve years old. He was a farmer and homesteaded in North Dakota in 1900. By 1913, he was living in Minneapolis. He also appears to have spent some time around the area of Duluth, Minnesota. He composed songs and also published several works of poetry. His first book, The Beauties of the Mouse River Loop, was published in 1904. He published several other titles before his last book, Jim's Western Gems, was released in 1913.

Note written by