[WIGGINS, Thomas “Blind Tom” (1849-1908)]. The Marvelous Musical Prodigy, Blind Tom, The Negro Boy Pianist. Baltimore: The Sun Book and Job Printing Establishment, n.d. [ca. 1867-68]. 8vo (229 x 152 mm). Original printed wrappers with an engraved portrait of Tom on upper cover (few tiny stains or soiling, corner clipped, also affecting first few leaves). FIRST EDITION of this scarce combination program and brochure that includes a biography of Tom, testimonials, onions from the international press, and a selection of lyrics. Blind Tom was born into slavery in Columbus, Georgia, and was blind and autistic at birth (his slave name was Thomas Bethune). At an early age, Tom showed an aptitude for the piano, and was able to replicate songs, and even speeches, verbatim after only one listen. The inspiration for his work was often the wind, the trees, or the rain, which he thought “spoke to him”, and he responded with improvisions on the piano. He began touring the United States at the age of eight and by the age of ten became the first Black musician to give a headline performance at the White House for then President James Buchanan. Being both autistic and Black, he was exploited by his owners, often performing four times a day, and earning his enslaver over $100,000 a year. Although he was granted freedom in 1863 by the Emancipation Proclamation, his enslavers General Bethune and his son John retained virtual ownership of Tom until 1887, including the copyrights to his compositions. Jay, Learned Pigs and Fireproof Women, pp. 73-81.