Elmer – Boxing. Containing Accurate Half-Tone Reproduction of Prof. Elmer and Partner, Showing All Important Blows and Positions to Take By Any One Who Wishes to Become a Proficient Boxer’

Description

Elmer, ‘Boxing. Containing Accurate Half-Tone Reproduction of Prof. Elmer and Partner, Showing All Important Blows and Positions to Take By Any One Who Wishes to Become a Proficient Boxer” by Prof. Wm. Elmer. Published by Spalding Athletic Library. 1902 1st ed. 161-pages, plus another 32 pages of ads. Original softcovers are rebound in navy blue cloth with gold lettering of title and authors last name on the spine. The title page scan itself is faded but the title page itself is bright. Very good condition.

Published in 1902 by the American Sports Publishing Company as part of the famous Spalding’s Athletic Library, Boxing by William Elmer is a comprehensive, early 20th-century instructional manual and historical record dedicated to the “manly art of self-defense”.

The book serves three primary purposes:
Step-by-Step Technical Guide: “Professor” William Elmer breaks down the precise mechanics of boxing. It covers fundamental stances, footwork, defensive positioning, and how to execute all major offensive blows. The text relies on highly accurate descriptions intended to teach beginners and enthusiasts how to become proficient boxers.

Visual Instructional Aid: The manual is heavily illustrated with roughly 70 full-page instructional photographs featuring Elmer himself demonstrating proper form, guard positions, and sparring techniques.

Historical Photo Gallery & Rules: Beyond training, the book features a rare historical archive of around 50 leading boxers from the turn of the 20th century. It includes photographs and stance analyses of iconic heavyweight champions like John L. Sullivan, Bob Fitzsimmons, and James J. Corbett. It also serves as an official reference by outlining the active Marquis of Queensberry and prize ring rules of the era.