Former owner Prescott Emerson (1840-1889) was a lawyer and political figure in Newfoundland who represented Burgeo-LaPoile in the Newfoundland and Labrador House of Assembly from 1869 to 1878. Born in St. John's, he was called to the bar in 1864. He supported union with Canada at the time of Confederation. Emerson served as speaker for the assembly from 1874 to 1878. In 1878, he retired from politics and was named chief clerk and registrar for the Supreme Court, serving until his death. Also of interest are the attached forms from the St. John's Book Club, a club that allowed its members to borrow books for 10 days, then pass them on to the next member listed. If a member wished a second reading, he wrote his name at the bottom of the list and several have done so. It is not surprising that the 32 listed members are among the educated men of the city. First comes His Excellency the Governor, followed by such men as Captain Shea, Right Rev. Bishop Kelly, Dr. Simms, The Chief Justice, Mr. Justice Robinson, Dr. Winter, etc. with dates filled in beside their names.
