John Pendleton Kennedy
Quodlibet: containing some annals thereof ...
"Quodlibet: containing some annals thereof ..." by John Pendleton Kennedy is a historical account likely written in the mid-19th century. The narrative offers an authentic illustration of the origin and growth of the borough of Quodlibet, detailing the sayings and events associated with its townspeople and the notable figures within the community. The work aims to provide a whimsical yet insightful reflection on political and social issues of the time, touching on the rapidly changing landscape of political affiliations and public sentiments. The opening of the book sets the stage for a retrospective exploration of Quodlibet's history, narrated by a schoolmaster named Solomon Secondthoughts. He reflects on the town's transformation over two decades, discussing how political parties have evolved and expressing concern about the loss of historical awareness among the younger generation. With humor, he introduces key characters such as Judge Flam and Nicodemus Handy, highlighting their roles in the establishment of the "Patriotic Copperplate Bank," and the controversies surrounding it. Grant, a local tanner, emerges as a skeptical figure whose resistance to the bank's establishment represents the tensions between traditional and emerging Democratic ideals within the community.