The Christian Advocate — Temperance Issue (February 12, 1948)

Published by The Methodist Publishing House | Chicago, Illinois
Vol. 123, No. 7 — “Temperance Issue”

This is an original 1948 Temperance Issue of The Christian Advocate, the long-running official weekly organ of the Methodist Church. This particular edition—published February 12, 1948—is devoted entirely to alcohol education, temperance advocacy, and social commentary during a pivotal era in American religious and cultural life.

The striking cover, illustrated by Russell O. Berg, features a bold courtroom cartoon depicting the “Liquor Business” confronted by the combined moral forces of Church, Home, Community, School, and Temperance organizations—a powerful visual statement of the period’s reform efforts.

Contents & Highlights

This issue includes more than a dozen articles, essays, and illustrations on alcoholism, temperance, public policy, and Christian guidance. Features include:

• “Liquor and the Individual” by Dr. Andrew C. Ivy, Ph.D., M.D., D.Sc.
  (Noted University of Illinois physician and researcher)

• “Lost Souls” by Caroline Walker

• “It’s Your Tax Burden!” — Economic impact of alcohol abuse

• “Counseling the Heavy Drinker” by George W. Crane, Ph.D., M.D.

• “When Lincoln Came to Congress” by Jacob S. Payton

• Dozens of period ads, cartoons, and temperance-era illustrations

This issue provides a vivid snapshot of post-war American attitudes toward alcohol, addiction, and public morality—making it an excellent piece for collectors of temperance history, Methodist ephemera, or early addiction-related publications.

Condition

• Covers: Toning consistent with age; small edge wear and handling signs; ink smudge on back cover.

• Interior: Pages are complete with moderate age toning; no major tears; bold illustrations and text remain clear.

• Binding: Secure and fully intact.

Please review all photographs for the most accurate representation of condition.

Summary

An authentic 1948 Christian Advocate Temperance Issue—rich with historical content, period artwork, social commentary, and early public-health perspectives on alcoholism. A compelling artifact for collectors of temperance, religious history, and recovery-related materials.

Good - Cover and interior pages clean.

• Historic Feature: Early coverage of Alcoholics Anonymous in a major national magazine.
• Rockefeller Connection: Details the crucial dinner that helped establish A.A.’s legitimacy.
• Early A.A. History: Documents the fellowship just five years after its founding.
• Condition: Well-preserved copy, good overall with only wear to front cover.

This issue is a historically significant artifact, capturing the moment Alcoholics Anonymous first entered the public spotlight, an event that shaped the fellowship’s future growth into a worldwide movement.

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