May 6, 1933

Luther Brewer (December 17, 1858 to May 6 1933) was an editor, publisher and noted book collector. According to Fine Books magazine he

.... was the editor of Cedar Rapid's Daily Republican newspaper. He founded The Torch Press in 1907 and published a number of collectable limited editions, including several about his world-class collection of Leigh Hunt material. (His Leigh Hunt collection was subsequently donated to the University of Iowa). The well-connected Brewer played host at his home to many prominent businessmen, writers, and politicians through the years, including President William Howard Taft.

Here is a picture of his library

and no doubt we are looking at some of his Leigh Hunt books. And these books mention cats. In fact we can be sure Mr. Brewer was familiar with Hunt's essay, "The Cat By The Fire." Hunt's minute description of some typical feline activity is commended for anybody.

We assume Brewer's family included a cat, but we have no proof, hence our roundabout feline reference.