[SCIENCE FICTION LEAGUE OF AMERICA]. Original Science Fiction League member sticker. 1936.

Sticker of the Science Fiction League of America logo, which depicts a rocket blasting off into space with the legend, “Member Science Fiction League” encircling image. Diam. 1/25”. Provenance: Forrest J. Ackerman (1916-2008), American editor, magazine publisher, and science fiction author; acquired by the present owner directly from Ackerman.

The Science Fiction League of America is believed to be one of the earliest associations of science fiction fans ever established. Inspired by the success of his earlier “Radio League” venture, Hugo Gernsback first advertised the league in the pages of the February 1934 issue of Wonder Stories, and appointed Forrest J. Ackerman to the slate of “executive directors” along with Eando Binder, Jack Darrow, Edmond Hamilton, David H. Keller, P. Schuyler Miller, Clark Ashton Smith and R.F. Starzl. Chapters were quickly formed in the US, UK, and Australia, however despite the league’s popularity it was disbanded in 1943 when Sam Merwin took over editorial duties at Wonder Stories. This sticker is believed to be the only example still in existence.

[With]: GERNSBACK, Hugo (1884-1967). Typed letter signed (“H. Gernsback”) to Forrest J. Ackerman announcing the formation of the Science Fiction League. New York, 5 February 1934 on Wonder Stories letterhead. 1 page, 8vo (very light soiling). In part: “After mature thought, I wish to announce the formation of the Science Fiction League, as per attached announcement. I would very much like you to join as an Honorary Member of the organization. There will have to be no work performed by you, the position is purely honorary.”