Unattributed "Willie we have Missed You." Written and Composed by Stephen C. Foster

"Willie we have Missed You." Written & Composed by Stephen C. Foster. 

New York:  Firth, Pond & Co, 1854.   Lithograph sheet music with cover showing a couple embracing in reunion.  8 x 6 1/2 (image) 13 1/8 x 9 7/8 (sheet).  Light discoloration and transference.

Stephen Collins Foster (1826-1864) was an American composer and lyricist, credited as the "father of American music." During his lifetime he authored some 200 songs, many of which remain well known in the 21st century. E.g. "Camptown Races," "beautiful Dreamer," "My Old Kentucky Home," "Jeanie with the Light Brown Hair" and "Old Folks at Home" ("Swanee River").

This sheet music, marketed as one of "Foster's Melodies," and featuring a facsimile signature of the composer, was published during his lifetime and capitalized on the popularity of his work.