The Bay Psalm Book: The First Printed Voice of America

In a world where the printed word was still a European privilege, North America dared to record its own voice. In 1640, in the young Massachusetts Bay Colony, The Bay Psalm Book emerged as the first book printed in English on the continent. Produced in Cambridge, this modest collection of translated psalms reflected not only the Puritans' spiritual needs but also their longing for cultural and intellectual autonomy in a newly conquered land. Its publication was a milestone, signaling that the colony would not only survive but also create its own literary tradition, independent of the Old World.

Artwork: SK

The book was more than just a collection of psalms; it was a deeply political and religious statement. The Puritans, exiled from England in search of religious freedom, rejected Anglican liturgical texts and sought more faithful translations of scripture. The Bay Psalm Book was the work of scholars such as John Eliot and Richard Mather, who prioritized biblical accuracy over poetic elegance. This resulted in rigid and awkward verses, making the book more of a devotional artifact than a refined literary work.

Its significance extended far beyond religion. By establishing the first functional printing press in North America, the colony laid the foundation for a print culture that would later fuel revolutions and enlighten minds. A local press meant that ideas could circulate freely, fostering a unique identity. This foundation would later allow the spread of independence and democracy, shaping the United States. The fact that a religious book was the first to be printed highlights how faith and the written word were the cornerstones of this new society.

Today, of the original 1,700 copies, only 11 have survived. One was sold in 2013 for over $14 million, making it one of the most expensive books in history. Its value goes beyond rarity: The Bay Psalm Book symbolizes the power of words and humanity’s determination to express itself, even in the most remote frontiers. It proves that a nation is born first in its culture before being consolidated in its territories.

Fun Fact

The Bay Psalm Book was printed on paper imported from Europe, as the colony lacked the resources to manufacture its own. While the words were truly American, the physical pages still bore the mark of the Old World.

References

• American Antiquarian Society

• Harvard University Library

• Library of Congress