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Emperor Norton
Dedicated to Norton I, Emperor of the United States (1818 - 1880)
Matthew Gelfer
Joshua Norton (1818 – 1880) was an eccentric resident of San Francisco who, in 1859, proclaimed himself "Norton I, Emperor of the United States". Although Emperor Norton had no formal political power, the citizens of San Francisco treated …
Read MoreString Orchestra Score & Parts
11527262Supplier ID: MSMG04-131
Ships from J.W. Pepper
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String Orchestra Score & Parts
11527262ESupplier ID: MSMG04-131
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Level:A
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Joshua Norton (1818 – 1880) was an eccentric resident of San Francisco who, in 1859, proclaimed himself "Norton I, Emperor of the United States". Although Emperor Norton had no formal political power, the citizens of San Francisco treated him deferentially. Local newspapers printed his frequent proclamations, and currency issued in his name was honored in his favorite establishments. He also received free ferry and train passage, and sympathizers and well-placed friends helped pay his rent and provided free meals. During his life, many merchants in San Francisco capitalized on Norton’s notoriety by selling souvenirs bearing his likeness.
When he passed away, 10,000 people lined the streets of San Francisco to pay him homage. Emperor Norton has been immortalized in the literature of Mark Twain, Robert Louis Stevenson, Christopher Moore, Charles Bukowski, Neil Gaiman, and others. This regal (but slightly off-center) piece for strings was composed in his honor.