They’re on the Way — Samuel M. Shoemaker | Signed
First Edition, 1951 | Signed and Dated by Samuel Shoemaker | Original Dust Jacket
An Important Figure in the Spiritual Foundations of Alcoholics Anonymous
Offered here is a 1951 First Edition of They’re on the Way: Modern Spiritual Experiences by Samuel M. Shoemaker, complete with its original dust jacket and personally signed and dated by the author.
Shoemaker’s inscription appears on the front endpaper and reads:
“S.M.S. 11/11/52”
Dated November 11, 1952, the inscription was written approximately one year after the book’s publication.
Samuel Shoemaker was an Episcopal minister, a leading American figure in the Oxford Group, and one of the most influential spiritual figures in the early development of Alcoholics Anonymous.
About the Book
Published in 1951, They’re on the Way brings together personal accounts of spiritual transformation drawn from Shoemaker’s years of ministry and counseling.
Through the experiences of individuals from different backgrounds, ages, and circumstances, Shoemaker explores the challenges of finding faith, purpose, and spiritual direction in everyday life.
The book includes accounts of students, ministers, widows, intellectuals, and others confronting personal difficulties and searching for meaningful change.
Shoemaker presents these experiences as examples of how spiritual principles can influence personal conduct, relationships, and the direction of one’s life.
Although not specifically written about Alcoholics Anonymous, the book reflects the spiritual philosophy and practical approach to personal transformation that made Shoemaker an important influence on the early Fellowship.
Samuel Shoemaker and Alcoholics Anonymous
Samuel M. Shoemaker (1893–1963) served as rector of Calvary Episcopal Church in New York City, where his ministry became closely associated with the Oxford Group.
During the formative years of Alcoholics Anonymous, Shoemaker’s teachings helped shape the spiritual principles that Bill Wilson and other early members incorporated into the emerging recovery program.
His emphasis on personal honesty, self-examination, confession, surrender, and service closely paralleled concepts that would become central to A.A.’s Twelve Steps.
Bill Wilson publicly acknowledged Shoemaker’s importance to the Fellowship, recognizing his contributions to the spiritual foundations of Alcoholics Anonymous.
While Shoemaker was not an A.A. member or one of its founders, his influence on its early development was substantial.
His books remain important historical resources for understanding the spiritual movements and individuals who helped shape Alcoholics Anonymous.
Book Details
- Title: They’re on the Way: Modern Spiritual Experiences
- Author: Samuel M. Shoemaker
- Edition: First Edition
- Publication Year: 1951
- Binding: Hardcover
- Dust Jacket: Original Dust Jacket
- Signed: Yes — Signed and dated by Samuel M. Shoemaker
- Inscription: “S.M.S. 11/11/52”
- Inscription Date: November 11, 1952
- Subject: Christian Spirituality, Oxford Group, Early Influences on Alcoholics Anonymous
Condition
The hardcover book is in excellent overall condition, with little visible wear to the binding and covers.
The original dust jacket exhibits age-related wear, including edgewear, chipping, and minor losses. A small green sticker is present on the front of the jacket.
Shoemaker’s dated inscription appears on the front endpaper. No additional writing or markings have been noted in the interior.
Please review the accompanying photographs for a detailed assessment of the book, signature, and original dust jacket.
Collector Significance
This copy combines three desirable features: a First Edition, the original dust jacket, and a dated signature from Samuel Shoemaker.
For collectors of Alcoholics Anonymous history, Shoemaker’s signed publications offer a direct connection to one of the individuals whose teachings helped shape the Fellowship’s early spiritual principles.
The November 1952 inscription adds a personal historical element, dating this copy to Shoemaker’s lifetime and shortly after the book’s original publication.
An appealing addition to a collection focused on the Oxford Group, early A.A. influences, Samuel Shoemaker, or the broader spiritual history of recovery.
