A Centenary of Seven Pillars: The First Edition

Lawrence Lecture Series: A Centenary of Seven Pillars: The First Edition

April 19, 2026 2:00 PM (CDT-USA) 8:00 PM (UK TIME)

In print since its publication in 1926, T. E. Lawrence’s “Seven Pillars of Wisdom” has been celebrated for a century. As fewer than 200 copies of this edition were published, most readers are unfamiliar with its original artwork and typography.

Lift the covers of this book with Valerie Thompson as she examines – from oil paintings to cartoon caricatures to unusual page layouts – the unconventional inspiration and structure of Lawrence’s beloved masterpiece. Please join us for her presentation A Centenary of Seven Pillars: The First Edition on Sunday April 19th at 2:00 PM (CDT-USA) 8:00 PM (UK TIME).

This program is brought to you by the T. E. Lawrence Society and the National World War I Museum and Memorial. It is free to members and friends but one must register for it at:

Lawrence Lecture Series | A Centenary of Seven Pillars:

The First Edition | National WWI Museum and Memorial (theworldwar.org)

If you are like most you have probably not viewed or touched a copy of this rare book. So if you are curious you may view one in this video presented by Peter Harrington Rare Books at: The Seven Pillars of Wisdom, T. E. Lawrence. Subscriber’s Edition 1926. Peter Harrington Rare Books – YouTube And if you would like to page through it and even have your own copy it is available (free) from the United States Library of Congress at: Seven pillars of wisdom; a triumph. | Library of Congress (loc.gov)

Again please join us on April 19th at 2:00 PM (CDT-USA) 8:00 PM (UK TIME) for Valerie Thompson’s A Centenary of Seven Pillars: The First Edition, and please share this invitation with others.