The Golden Pencil: The Freelance Writer’s Resource

Q&A - Direct Quotes from the 1800s

by Anne Wayman on August 6th, 2007

Hi Anne,

I am writing an adventure novel, and I want to use direct quotes from 1800’s newspapers in the forward.

Is this legal?

Thanks, GT

Hi Gary,

Anything from the 1800s is almost certain to be in public domain, which means it’s okay for you to use it. Regardless, you should give credit, citing the newspaper, the author if available, and the date.

Good luck with your novel.

Write well and often,

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