In 1885, the company began publishing and printing non-fictional "Standard books" of the general history, soldier life and adventures and important places pertaining to the Civil War, as well as other unrelated informative books. Most of the books were softback, sold for 25 to 50 cents, and were only available through the National Tribune. Their concept was that retail prices were so low to allow wholesale prices, therefore they did not sell to bookstores and newsstands. They usually advertised all of their other publications in the inside of the books' front and back covers. By 1899, they ceased selling and advertised at the end of the back inside cover "Terms: The foregoing books are not for sale. They are published for the sole purpose of rewarding those who raise clubs for The National Tribune. It is very easy to raise a club. Send for sample copies of the paper". Most copies were bound in leatherette covers.
