Signed by Clarence Snyder - Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers - First Printing from 1980
This book is the AA published Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers. This is a First Printing from 1980 with the original dust jacket.
This book has been inscribed and signed by Clarence Snyder, early AA member from Cleveland, OH.
About Clarence Snyder:
Clarence Snyder was a significant figure in the history of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and is often credited with helping to spread AA's message beyond its initial locations in Akron and New York City. Known affectionately as "The Home Brewmeister" due to the title of his story in the big book. Clarence played a pivotal role in establishing AA in Cleveland, Ohio. He is well known as a pioneer that was a leader in the AA community with sponsorship and working with others.
Here are some key aspects of Clarence Snyder's involvement with AA:
1. Early Sobriety and Meeting Dr. Bob: Clarence Snyder achieved sobriety in 1938 after meeting Dr. Bob while in a hospital. Dr. Bob was one of the co-founders of AA, and his guidance was instrumental in Clarence's recovery and his understanding of the AA program.
2. Starting the First AA Group in Cleveland: Clarence is credited with starting the first AA group in Cleveland, which was also one of the first "standalone" AA groups that operated independently of the Oxford Group. This marked a significant development in AA's history as it showed that AA could thrive separately from the religious framework of the Oxford Group.
3. Expansion and Autonomy: Under Clarence’s initiative, the Cleveland AA grew rapidly, and his efforts were crucial in demonstrating that AA’s Twelve Step program could be successfully replicated and could function effectively in various settings. His work helped establish the template for AA meetings and the group format that would become the standard model for AA globally..
Clarence Snyder remains a revered figure in AA history, especially recognized for his pioneering efforts to expand AA's reach and for his dedication to the principle of service to others in recovery. His legacy is celebrated in AA history and in the stories of those he helped along the path to recovery.
About Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers:
"Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers" is a historical book about the co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous, Dr. Bob Smith, and the early years of the AA movement. Published by Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, the book serves as a biographical account of Dr. Bob and provides detailed insights into the formative first days of AA in Akron, Ohio.
This book emphasizes the personal story of Dr. Bob Smith and his crucial role in the development of AA's foundational principles and practices. It includes:
1. Biographical Details: The book explores Dr. Bob's personal struggles with alcoholism, his meeting with Bill Wilson (the other co-founder of AA), and how their partnership was pivotal in establishing AA.
2. Foundational Stories: It provides anecdotes and stories about the early members of AA, known as "the good oldtimers," whose experiences and insights contributed to the shaping of the program.
3. Development of AA Practices: The book details the evolution of AA's key practices and traditions, including the importance of anonymity, the spiritual foundation of the Twelve Steps.
4. Impact on the Community: "Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers" also discusses the spread of AA from a small group in Akron to a nationwide movement, highlighting the challenges and successes encountered along the way.
Overall, the book is both a tribute to Dr. Bob's legacy and a documentary account of the early AA community. It is rich with historical context, providing readers with a deeper understanding of how AA's unique approach to sobriety and community support was developed through the experiences of its founders and earliest members. This makes it an essential read for those interested in the history of Alcoholics Anonymous and the personal stories behind its creation.
This book is in good condition. There is some light wear to the cover. The inscription by Clarence is on the first title page. There is no other writing or markings inside the book. The dust jacket has edge wear.
Please view all of the photos for the conditions.