Gould IV, William B. [Ruth Bader Ginsburg]

Diary of a Contraband: The Civil War Passage of a Black Sailor.

Stanford : Stanford University Press, 2002.

First edition of this inspirational and thought-provoking family history, from the library of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Octavo, original red cloth, frontispiece portrait of William B. Gould in his veteran’s hat, illustrated with black and white photographs, charts, and maps. Association copy, inscribed by the author on the half-title page to associate justice of theContinue reading "Diary of a Contraband: The Civil War Passage of a Black Sailor."

[Lincoln, Abraham; James Buchanan; Ulysses S. Grant; Rutherford B. Hayes; Andrew Johnson; Franklin Pierce

Presidential Autograph Album Containing the Signatures of Abraham Lincoln, Andrew Johnson, Ulysses S. Grant and Others.

[1877-1880].

Unique 19th-century autograph album containing the signatures of six American presidents, fifteen senators, several cabinet members, and governors including Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses S. Grant, James Buchanan, and Franklin Pierce. Narrow quarto, bound in one quarter period dark brown cloth over stiff marbled wrappers, the autograph album is a repurposed 19th-century caucus record, dating from ca.Continue reading "Presidential Autograph Album Containing the Signatures of Abraham Lincoln, Andrew Johnson, Ulysses S. Grant and Others."

Douglass, Frederick

My Bondage and Freedom.

New York & Auburn : Miller, Orton, & Mulligan, 1855.

Rare first edition of Douglass’ second autobiography. Octavo, original publisher’s brown cloth stamped in blind with gilt titles to the spine, illustrated with three engraved plates including tissued-engraved frontispiece from the classic daguerreotype of Douglass engraved by John Chester Buttre. In very good condition with light rubbing to the extremities, toning to the frontispiece andContinue reading "My Bondage and Freedom."

Benjamin, Marcus [William Tecumseh Sherman]

Washington During War Time: A Series of Papers Showing the Military, Political, and Social Phases During 1861 to 1865.

Washington City : Committee on Literature for the Encampment, 1902.

Official souvenir of the Thirty-Sixth Annual Encampment of the Grand Army of the Republic; from the library of Philemon Tecumseh Sherman. Octavo, original green cloth with gilt titles, frontispiece portrait of Abraham Lincoln, illustrated. P. T. Sherman’s bookplate to the front flyleaf. Presentaton copy, inscribed to Philemon Tecumseh Sherman, “Mr. P. T. Sherman, with cordialContinue reading "Washington During War Time: A Series of Papers Showing the Military, Political, and Social Phases During 1861 to 1865."

Kennedy, John F

Profiles in Courage.

New York : Harper & Brothers, 1956.

First edition of Kennedy’s Pulitzer Prize-winning work. Octavo, original half cloth, with eight pages of black-and-white photogravures. Near fine in a near fine dust jacket, inscription to the verso of the front free endpaper. Jack design by Phil Grushkin. Jacket photograph by Hank Walker. An exceptional example.

[William T. Sherman]

The Army Reunion: With Reports of the Meetings of the Societies of The Army of the Cumberland; The Army of the Tennessee; The Army of the Ohio; and The Army of Georgia.

Chicago : S. C. Griggs and Company, 1869.

First edition of this record of post-war social meetings by members of the army; from the library of General William Tecumseh Sherman. Small quarto, bound in full deluxe red morocco stamped in blind with gilt titles and ruling to the spine in six compartments within raised bands, gilt centerpiece, gilt inner dentelles, all edges gilt,Continue reading "The Army Reunion: With Reports of the Meetings of the Societies of The Army of the Cumberland; The Army of the Tennessee; The Army of the Ohio; and The Army of Georgia."

Sherman, Thomas H.; with Introduction by Nicholas Murray Butler [William T. Sherman]

Twenty Years with James G. Blaine: Reminiscences by His Private Secretary.

New York : The Grafton Press, 1928.

First edition of this biography of American statesman, Republican politician, and Secretary of State, James G. Blaine, from the observations of his private secretary; from the library of Philemon Tecumseh Sherman. Octavo, original cloth, frontispiece portrait of James G. Blaine, illustrated with black and white photographs. P. T. Sherman’s bookplate to the front pastedown beneathContinue reading "Twenty Years with James G. Blaine: Reminiscences by His Private Secretary."

Keller, Hellen

The Story of My Life.

Garden City : Doubleday, Dorian & Company, Inc, 1935.

Later printing of Keller’s autobiography of her early life, particularly detailing her relationship with Anne Sullivan. Octavo, original cloth, engraved frontispiece portrait of Keller after a photograph by Marshall, illustrated. Presentation copy, inscribed by Helen Keller on the front free endpaper, “To Mar with sincere wishes for a Happy Christmas and New Year Helen KellerContinue reading "The Story of My Life."

Howard, Benjamin C. [Dred Scott]

A Report of the Decision of the Supreme Court of the United States, and the Opinions of the Judges Thereof, in the Case of Dred Scott versus John H. Sanford. December Term, 1856.

New York : D. Appleton and Company, 1857.

Rare first edition of the report of the Dred Scott decision which held that the U.S. Constitution was not intended to include citizenship for African Americans, published simultaneously in Washington D.C. and New York. Octavo, original wrappers with a decorative woodcut border. From the library of Judge Roland Hitchcock and signed by him from Winsted,Continue reading "A Report of the Decision of the Supreme Court of the United States, and the Opinions of the Judges Thereof, in the Case of Dred Scott versus John H. Sanford. December Term, 1856."

Kennedy, John F

President John F. Kennedy Inaugural Event Invitations.

1961.

Group of rare invitations to events surrounding the Kennedy inauguration; from the collection of Helen Keyes, longtime personal assistant for the Kennedy family. The collection includes: An invitation to attend “The Official Distinguished Ladies” reception hosted at the National Gallery by the “Official Hospitality Committee of the Inaugural Committee 1961” on January 18th, 1961; anContinue reading "President John F. Kennedy Inaugural Event Invitations."

[Theodore Roosevelt]

Scribner’s Magazine, Volume 18 XVIII, July-December 1895 [Theodore Roosevelt].

New York : Charles Scribner's Sons, 1895.

Finely bound volume of this early Theodore Roosevelt article. Octavo, bound in three quarter morocco over printed boards with gilt titles to the spine, raised bands. Contents include: Theodore Roosevelt article “Six Years of Civil Service Reform”; article on American posters with many examples; “Landmarks of Manhattan” with six full-page illustrations. In near fine condition.

Reagan, Ronald and John Wayne

Ronald Reagan and John Wayne Signed Letter Collection.

California May 20-26, 1967.

Rare pairing of letters exchanged and signed by President Ronald Reagan as Governor and American actor John Wayne, comprised of a typed letter signed by Wayne to Reagan and Regan’s handwritten draft of his reply. Three pages, 8.5 inches by 11 inches, the typed letter from John Wayne to Reagan is signed “Duke” by Wayne,Continue reading "Ronald Reagan and John Wayne Signed Letter Collection."

Washington, George

George Washington Letter Signed.

Mount Vernon July 28, 1785.

Rare letter signed by George Washington to his land agent in Virginia, Battaile Muse. Quarto, three pages on a single folded leaf, the letter is addressed to Mr. Battaile Muse. The body of the letter, in a secretarial hand, reads in full: “Mount Vernon, July 28, 1785 Sir: A few days ago by a Mr.Continue reading "George Washington Letter Signed."

Roosevelt, Theodore

The Winning of the West.

New York : G.P. Putnam's Sons, 1903.

The Standard Library edition of Roosevelt’s monumental work. Octavo, 4 volumes, original publisher’s cloth with gilt titles and botanical gilt tooling to the spine, gilt topstain, tissue-guarded frontispiece portrait of Roosevelt to volume one, illustrated with folding maps and other plates. Presentation copy, boldly inscribed by Theodore Roosevelt while in The White House on theContinue reading "The Winning of the West."

Douglass, Frederick

Frederick Douglass Autograph Letter Signed.

Washington, D.C November 30, 1888.

Autograph letter signed by Frederick Douglass to M. M. Rodgers. Octavo, one page on Lyons Parchment, the handwritten letter reads in part, “Since you have so much to desire a letter by my own hand, though I have more of that kind of work to do than ought to be required of me, I takeContinue reading "Frederick Douglass Autograph Letter Signed."

McCain, John and Mark Salter

The Restless Wave: Good Times, Just Causes, Great Fights, and Other Appreciations.

New York : Simon & Schuster, 2018.

First edition of this political memoir from Senator McCain, an American hero who reflects on his life and what matters most. Octavo, original boards. Boldly signed by John McCain on the title page. Fine in a fine dust jacket. Jacket design by Jackie Seow. Rare and desirable signed as this memoir was published in MayContinue reading "The Restless Wave: Good Times, Just Causes, Great Fights, and Other Appreciations."

Roosevelt, Theodore

The New Nationalism

New York : The Outlook Company, 1910.

First edition of this classic work. Octavo, original cloth. Presentation copy, inscribed by the author on the front free endpaper, “Mr. J.E. Rhodes Theodore Roosevelt Jan 19th 1911.” In near fine condition. With an introduction by Ernest Hamlin Abbott.

Miller, Arthur

The Ride Down Mt. Morgan.

New York : Penguin Books, 1992.

First American edition of this incredibly entertaining play. Octavo, original black half cloth. Fine in a near fine dust jacket. Jacket photograph by Inge Morath.

Ward, Geoffrey C. and Ken Burns [Doris Kearns Goodwin]

Baseball: An Illustrated History.

New York : Alfred A. Knopf, 1994.

First edition of this companion book to the classic documentary series. Quarto, original cloth, illustrated endpapers, illustrated throughout. Boldly signed by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Doris Kearns Goodwin on the title page. Kearns Goodwin served as a commentor in the series. Fine in a fine dust jacket.

Kennedy, John F

Profiles in Courage.

New York : Harper & Brothers, 1956.

First edition of Kennedy’s Pulitzer Prize-winning work. Octavo, original half cloth, with eight pages of black-and-white photogravures. Near fine in a near fine price-clipped dust jacket. Jack design by Phil Grushkin. Jacket photograph by Hank Walker. Uncommon in this condition.

Jennings, Peter and Todd Brewster

The Century.

New York : Doubleday, 1998.

First edition of this historic overview of the twentieth century. Quarto, original cloth, illustrated throughout. Signed by both authors, Peter Jennings and Todd Brewster. Fine in a fine dust jacket.

[Hamilton, Alexander; James Madison; John Jay]

The Federalist: A Collection of Essays, Written in Favour of the New Constitution, As Agreed Upon by the Federal Convention, September 17, 1787.

New York : Printed and Sold by J. and A. McLean, 1788.

First edition of The Federalist, one of the rarest and most significant books in American political history. 12mo, two volumes bound into one in half calf over marbled boards with raised bands, gilt titles to the spine. In very good condition with light toning to the pages. Text blocks trimmed. Housed in a custom halfContinue reading "The Federalist: A Collection of Essays, Written in Favour of the New Constitution, As Agreed Upon by the Federal Convention, September 17, 1787."

[Hamilton, Alexander]

The Speeches at Full Length of Mr. Van Ness, Mr. Caines, The Attorney-General, Mr. Harrison, and General Hamilton, in the Great Cause of the People, Against Harry Croswell, on an Indictment of Libel on Thomas Jefferson, President of the United States.

New York : Printed by G. & R. Waite, No. 64 Maiden-Lane, 1804.

First edition of this landmark case in the history of the First Amendment. Octavo, disbound. In very good condition. Rare with only a handful appearing in auction records.

Washington, George

George Washington Autograph Diary Leaf.

[Mount Vernon] March 1762.

Autograph manuscript, being George Washington’s diary entries for a portion of March 1762, detailing the fruit grafts that he has accomplished. 2 pages (5 14/16 x 3 10/16 inches, irregular) on a leaf of laid paper, [Mount Vernon], March 1762; browned, left margin of recto waterstained and abraded causing a loss of text in mostContinue reading "George Washington Autograph Diary Leaf."

[Watson, Elkanah] [George Washington]

Tour in Holland in MDCCLXXXIV. By an American.

Printed at Worcester, Massachusetts : Isaiah Thomas, 1790.

First edition, presentation copy of a scarce volume from George Washington’s library at Mount Vernon. Octavo, bound in full contemporary sheep with pine gilt in six compartments within raised bands, burgundy morocco spine label lettered in gilt, type-ornament title-page vignette, head and tailpieces. Presentation copy, inscribed by the author to George Washington on the frontContinue reading "Tour in Holland in MDCCLXXXIV. By an American."

[Grant, Ulysses S.; Hamilton Fish; William Tecumseh Sherman; et al]

Ulysses S. Grant Treaty of Washington Signed Document Collection.

.

Rare collection of documents related to the 1871 Treaty of Washington including signatures of all of the key figures involved in its signing including President Ulysses S. Grant, his Secretary of State Hamilton Fish and the British delegation led by George Robinson, Earl de Grey and Ripon. The collection was assembled by Frederic Daustini Cremer who acted asContinue reading "Ulysses S. Grant Treaty of Washington Signed Document Collection."

Shea, John Galmary

Early Voyages Up and Down the Mississippi, by Cavelier, Dt. Cosme, Le Sueur, Gravier, and Guignas.

Albany : Joel Munsell, 1861.

Limited edition of Shea’s important history of the early explorers of the Mississippi, printed for subscribers. Octavo, bound in half morocco over marbled boards with gilt titles to the spine, marbled endpapers, top edge gilt. Bradford 4933; Field 1395; Sabin 80003. Provenance: from the library of American businessman James Phinney Baxter (1831-1921) of Portland, MaineContinue reading "Early Voyages Up and Down the Mississippi, by Cavelier, Dt. Cosme, Le Sueur, Gravier, and Guignas."

Franklin, Benjamin

Experiments and Observations on Electricity, Made at Philadelphia in America, by Benjamin Franklin, L.L.D. and F.R.S. To which are added, Letters and Papers on Philosophical Subjects. The Whole corrected, methodized, improved, and now first collected into one Volume, and Illustrated with Copper Plates.

London : Printed for David Henry; and sold by Francis Newbery, at the Corner of St. Paul's Church-Yard, 1769.

First complete edition of “the most important scientific book of eighteenth-century America” (PMM), inscribed by Benjamin Franklin to prominent Pennsylvania Quaker and merchant Thomas Livezey, Jr. Quarto, bound in full contemporary calf with elaborate gilt tooling to the spine in six compartments within raised gilt bands, morocco spine label lettered in gilt, gilt turn-ins. IllustratedContinue reading "Experiments and Observations on Electricity, Made at Philadelphia in America, by Benjamin Franklin, L.L.D. and F.R.S. To which are added, Letters and Papers on Philosophical Subjects. The Whole corrected, methodized, improved, and now first collected into one Volume, and Illustrated with Copper Plates."

Whitman, Walt

Leaves of Grass.

Camden, New Jersey : Author's Edition [Walt Whitman], 1882.

The Author’s edition of the most important and influential volume of poetry written in America; one of probably fewer than 100 copies produced with the inclusion of the “sexual odes” at Whitman’s insistence. Octavo, original publisher’s cloth, illustrated with two full-page engraved portraits of Whitman at different ages. Boldly signed by Walt Whitman on theContinue reading "Leaves of Grass."

Rowson [Susanna Haswell]

Charlotte Temple: A Tale of Truth.

Hartford : Published by Silas Andrus, 1827.

Early American printing of the first American bestseller, first published in 1794. 16mo, half calf over wooden boards, gilt-lettered spine, woodcut frontispiece. In good condition, assuming boards were once paper-covered, the paper has since entirely perished; shallow loss along top edge of both covers, lacking rear endpaper, 20th century rubberstamp to front pastedown. Rare.

[Andrew Hutchins Mickle]

Rules and Regulations for Day and Night Police of the City of New York; with Instructions as to The Legal Powers and Duties of Policemen.

New-York : Printed by Casper C. Childs, 1846.

Second edition of the first City Police handbook published in the United States. 16 mo, bound in full contemporary sheep stamped in blind, index. Signed by the 67th Mayor of New York City Andrew Hutchins Mickle twice on his mayoral dedication page and additionally on the pastedown of the rear panel. Andrew Hutchins Mickle servedContinue reading "Rules and Regulations for Day and Night Police of the City of New York; with Instructions as to The Legal Powers and Duties of Policemen."

Remington, Frederic

The Way of the Indian.

New York : Fox Duffield & Company, 1906.

First edition, first state with page 9 numbered of this classic work. Octavo, original cloth, illustrated. In very good condition. First editions are uncommon.

Kelly, Fred C.; Introduction by Orville Wright

The Wright Brothers.

New York : Harcourt, Brace and Company, 1943.

First edition of this classic American biography authorized by Orville Wright and long considered the definitive Wright biography. Octavo, original blue cloth, illustrated with 16 pages of photographs. Presentation copy, inscribed by Orville Wright in the year of publication on the half-title page, “To Edward with affectionate regards. Orville Wright May 4, 1943.” Near fineContinue reading "The Wright Brothers."

Stowe, Harriet Beecher

The Writings of Harriet Beecher Stowe.

Cambridge : The Riverside Press, 1896.

The Large Paper Author’s Autograph edition of the writings of Harriet Beecher Stowe. Octavo, 16 volumes bound in three quarter crushed levant pigskin with gilt titles and tooling to the spine in six compartments within raised gilt bands, marbled endpapers, top edge gilt. Signed by Harriet Beecher Stowe on the limitation page ‘Specially For ThisContinue reading "The Writings of Harriet Beecher Stowe."

Dorr, Thomas W

Thomas Wilson Dorr Signed January 20th 1841 Democratic Republican Convention Proceedings Document.

January 20,1841.

Rare manuscript copy of the proceedings of the January 20th 1841 Democratic Republican Convention, signed by Chairman Thomas W. Dorr. Octavo, one page, the document reads, “Resolutions. Resolved, That the members of the Convention must cordially concur in the strong recommendations of William Ennis for the post of paymaster in the Army, or purser inContinue reading "Thomas Wilson Dorr Signed January 20th 1841 Democratic Republican Convention Proceedings Document."

[Earhart, Amelia]

Amelia Earhart Signed Oldsmobile Girls Club Christmas Party Program.

[Lansing, Michigan] [1928].

Rare original program from the holiday luncheon held for female employees of Olds Motor Works held on December 19th 1928, signed by legendary aviator Amelia Earhart. Octavo, bound in handmade tissue paper with a red ribbon, illustrated with a tipped in portrait of Amelia Earhart. Signed by Earhart in pencil beneath her portrait. In veryContinue reading "Amelia Earhart Signed Oldsmobile Girls Club Christmas Party Program."

Kennedy, John F

The Strategy of Peace.

New York : Harper & Brothers, 1960.

First edition of the selected foreign policy speeches and statements on defense, peace, and national security delivered by Kennedy during his 1960 presidential campaign. Octavo, original pictorial wrappers. From the library of John F. Kennedy with his ownership stamp to the half-title page, “Senator John F. Kennedy.” In near fine condition. Housed in a customContinue reading "The Strategy of Peace."

King, Jr., Martin Luther

Stride Toward Freedom: The Montgomery Story.

New York : Harper & Brothers, Publishers, 1958.

First edition, early printing of Dr. Martin Luther King’s first book. Octavo, bound in full morocco by the Harcourt Bindery with gilt titles and tooling to the spine in six compartments within raised gilt bands, gilt ruling to the front and rear panels, gilt inner dentelles stamp-signed by the Harcourt Bindery, marbled endpapers, all edgesContinue reading "Stride Toward Freedom: The Montgomery Story."

[Smucker, Samuel Mosheim]

The Yankee Slave Driver; or, The Black and White Rivals.

Philadelphia : G.G. Evans, 1858.

Early printing of this early American abolitionist novel set in Louisiana and attributed to Samuel Smucker. Octavo, original publisher’s cloth, recased, illustrated. In very good condition. Reinforced interior hinges. Rare.

Collins., Mrs. Jane S

Free At Last.

Pittsburgh : Press of Murdoch, Kerr & Co., Incorporated, 1896.

First edition of this semi-historical civil rights narrative by Jane S. Collins, whose husband ran the first racially-integrated school in Indiana during the Civil War. Octavo, original cloth with gilt titles to the spine, illustrated with frontispiece and 15 plates. In very good condition. Ownership inscription. Rare.

Nielsen, Svend Aage. [John F. Kennedy; Rose Kennedy]

Kennedy’s Philosophy of Life: Revolution of Love and Visions of Peace.

New York : Vantage Press, 1981.

First edition of this work by the founder of The Kennedy Society of Denmark. Octavo, original cloth, illustrated. Association copy, lengthily inscribed by the author on the front free endpaper, “Toreby Denmark February 2, 1982. Dear Mrs. Rose Kennedy, President John F. Kennedy cared so much for peace. Therefore I hope, you will find thisContinue reading "Kennedy’s Philosophy of Life: Revolution of Love and Visions of Peace."

Plimpton, George. [Editor]. Interviews by Jean Stein [Edward M. Kennedy]

American Journey: The Times of Robert Kennedy.

New York : Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, Inc, 1970.

First edition of this remarkable biography of Robert F. Kennedy, based on interviews by Jean Stein and edited by George Plimpton. Octavo, original cloth. Association copy, inscribed by George Plimpton on the front free endpaper to Robert Kennedy’s youngest brother, Ted Kennedy, “To Senator Kennedy with great admiration and best wishes, George.” The recipient, TedContinue reading "American Journey: The Times of Robert Kennedy."

[Society of the Cincinnati]

Proceedings of the General Society of the Cincinnati [with] Institution of the Society of the Cincinnati, Formed by the Officers of the American Army of the Revolution, 1783.

New York : Printed for the Society by Douglas Taylor, 1886/ Philadelphia: Review Printing House, 1887.

First editions of two official publications of the Society of the Cincinnati, a valuable resource on the Revolutionary institution. Quarto, two volumes uniformly bound in three quarter contemporary morocco over marbled boards with gilt titles and tooling to the spine in six compartments within raised gilt bands, top edges gilt, marbled endpapers. The two-volume collectionContinue reading "Proceedings of the General Society of the Cincinnati [with] Institution of the Society of the Cincinnati, Formed by the Officers of the American Army of the Revolution, 1783."

Stowe, Harriet Beecher

Uncle Tom’s Cabin; Or, Life Among the Lowly.

Boston : John P. Jewett & Company. Cleveland: Jewett, Proctor & Worthington, 1852.

First edition, first issue of Stowe’s classic American novel, widely considered the book that precipitated the American Civil War. Octavo, two volumes in the original publisher’s cloth stamped in blind with gilt titles and vignettes to the front panels, illustrated with title vignettes and six wood-engravings. BAL’s binding B (no priority). Portrait of Stowe tippedContinue reading "Uncle Tom’s Cabin; Or, Life Among the Lowly."

Mayer, Brantz

Captain Canot; or, Twenty Years of an African Slaver. Being an Account of the Career and Adventures on the Coast, in the Interior, on Shipboard, and in the West Indies.

New York : D. Appleton and Company, 1854.

First edition, first issue of the historian’s detailed account of the African slave trade. First issue with with page 191 misprinted as 19. Octavo, recased with the original publisher’s cloth laid down, additional vignette title. In very good condition, hinges reinforced and rebacked.

Walter Browning; or, The Slave’s Protector. Founded on Fact.

Cincinnati : American Reform Tract and Book Store, 1856.

First edition of this anti-slavery tract. 12mo, original publisher’s cloth, yellow endpapers, engraved frontispiece. In very good condition. Ownership inscription. Uncommon.

Harper’s Weekly, A Journal of Civilization. [Harper’s Weekly’s Complete Coverage of the American Civil War: January 1, 1861-December 30, 1865].

New York : Harper & Brothers, January 1, 1861-December 30, 1865.

Rare continuous run of 260 issues of Harper’s Weekly, covering the entirety of the American Civil War. Folio, five volumes, bound in full buckram with morocco spine labels lettered in gilt, illustrated with hundreds of wood-engraved illustrations, many from noted American illustrators including portraits of Union and Confederate Army Generals and Officers, battlefield scenes, maps, cityContinue reading "Harper’s Weekly, A Journal of Civilization. [Harper’s Weekly’s Complete Coverage of the American Civil War: January 1, 1861-December 30, 1865]."

Edwards, Jonathan

Two Dissertations, I. Concerning the End For Which God Created the World. II. The Nature of True Virtue.

Boston : S. Kneeland, 1765.

First edition of this important work by Edwards. Small octavo, bound in half calf over marbled boards, raised bands, morocco spine label. In very good condition. Rare.

Crane, Stephen. Irving Bacheller, Post Wheeler, John Langdon Heaton

The Lanthorn Book: Being a Small Collection of Tales and Verses Read at The Sign o’ the Lanthorn.

New York : 126 William Street, 1898.

Signed limited edition, this is number 47. Quarter, original half cloth. Signed by Stephen Crane at the conclusion of his contribution, The Wise Men. Also signed by the other contributors. While it was the intention of the club to have each contributor sign his piece, Crane did not sign all 125 examples, as he diedContinue reading "The Lanthorn Book: Being a Small Collection of Tales and Verses Read at The Sign o’ the Lanthorn."

Webster, Daniel

The Works of Daniel Webster.

Boston : Charles C. Little and James Brown, 1851.

The subscriber’s edition of the works of Daniel Webster, signed by Webster in the first volume. Octavo, 6 volumes, bound in original cloth, frontispiece, and one other plate. In near fine condition.

Washington, George

George Washington Autograph Letter Signed.

January 24, 1790.

Rare autograph letter signed by George Washington as the first President of the United States. Quarto, one page, the letter reads in full, “New York Jany 24th 1790 Sir Capt. Burnett delivered me your letter of the 18th and is so obliging as to take charge of this answer – It is my sincere opinionContinue reading "George Washington Autograph Letter Signed."

Wilson, Woodrow

A History of the American People.

New York : Harper & Brothers Publishers, 1918.

The Documentary edition of this classic work. Octavo, 10 volumes, three quarters morocco, gilt titles and tooling to the spine, raised bands, top edge gilt, marble endpapers, contains numerous plates and illustrations. In very good condition.

Douglass, Frederick

Frederick Douglass Signed Property Deed.

Washington, D.C March 23, 1885.

Rare real estate document signed by famed abolitionist Frederick Douglass as Recorder of Deeds for Washington, D.C. One page, partially printed, the property deed agreement is signed by Douglass, “Fredk. Douglass” as Recorder of Deeds, certifying a deed transferring a plot of land in Washington, DC, from Joseph C.G. Kennedy to Thomas D. Bond. Following the Civil War, Douglass received numerousContinue reading "Frederick Douglass Signed Property Deed."

Lee, Robert E

Robert E. Lee Signed Carte-de-Visite.

Lexington, Va : Boude & Miley, [1869].

Rare Reconstruction era carte-de-visite portrait of former Confederate commander General Robert E. Lee in civilian attire, boldly signed “RE Lee.” The carte-de-visite measures 2.5 inches by 4 inches with Boude & Miley’s imprint on the verso. This striking postwar portrait of Lee was captured by photographer Michael Miley of Lexington, Virginia in 1869, perhaps lessContinue reading "Robert E. Lee Signed Carte-de-Visite."

King, Jr. Martin Luther. Editor's note by Ed Clayton

The SCLC Story in Words and Pictures.

Atlanta, Georgia : Southern Christian Leadership Conference, 1964.

First edition, first printing of The SCLC Story containing one of the first appearances in print of Martin Luther King Jr.’s I Have a Dream Speech. Quarto, original illustrated wrappers as issued, illustrated with photographs including a full-page photograph of King, photographs of the officers, executive board, regional, and secretarial staffs of the SCLC. SignedContinue reading "The SCLC Story in Words and Pictures."

Adams, Henry [Editor].

Documents Relating to New-England Federalism. 1800-1815.

Boston : Little, Brown, and Company, 1877.

First edition of the Pulitzer Prize-winning historian’s work on the rise of Federalism in 19th century New England. Octavo, original publisher’s cloth. Presentation copy, inscribed by the author on the front free endpaper in the month of publication, “With the respects of Henry Adams For Mr. Corcoran’s birthday Dec. 1877.” The recipient, William Wilson Corcoran,Continue reading "Documents Relating to New-England Federalism. 1800-1815."

Lindbergh, Charles A

We.

New York : G.P. Putnam's Sons, 1927.

First edition of Lindbergh’s definitive autobiography. Octavo, original pictorial cloth, pictorial endpapers, illustrated. Near fine in the rare original dust jacket and glassine.

Kennedy, John F

Profiles in Courage.

New York : Harper & Brothers, 1956.

First edition of Kennedy’s Pulitzer Prize-winning work. Octavo, original half cloth, with eight pages of black-and-white photogravures. From the library of PT Boat Captain William J. (Wild Bill) Barrett, from Great Barrington, Massachusetts with his name and date 2/1/56 on the front endpaper. Near fine in a very good dust jacket. Jack design by PhilContinue reading "Profiles in Courage."

Hughes, Langston and Milton Meltzer

A Pictorial History of the Negro in America.

New York : Crown Publishers, Inc, 1956.

First edition of this important compilation on the history of African Americans. Quarto, original half cloth, illustrated. Boldly signed by Langston Hughes and Milton Meltzer on the front free endpaper. Near fine in a very good price-clipped dust jacket. Uncommon signed.

Mayer, Brantz

Captain Canot; or, Twenty Years of an African Slaver. Being an Account of the Career and Adventures on the Coast, in the Interior, on Shipboard, and in the West Indies.

New York : D. Appleton and Company, 1854.

First edition, early issue of the historian’s detailed account of the African slave trade without the misprint on page 191. Octavo, bound in contemporary calf, rebacked, additional vignette title. In very good condition, hinges reinforced.

Kennedy, John F

John F. Kennedy Unsmoked Cigar.

.

Rare unopened cigar given to 35th U.S. President John F. Kennedy by a Philippine Ambassador to the United States, handsomely presented with a portrait of Kennedy. The Coronas Alhambra cigar is mounted in a shadowbox opening and is still stored in a cellophane sheath printed in gold lettering: “Specially Made For President Kennedy.” Under itsContinue reading "John F. Kennedy Unsmoked Cigar."

King Jr., Martin Luther

Stride Toward Freedom: The Montgomery Story.

New York : Harper & Brothers, Publishers, 1958.

First edition of Dr. Martin Luther King’s first book. Octavo, bound in full morocco by the Harcourt Bindery, gilt titles and ruling to the spine, raised bands, gilt ruled to the front and rear panels, inner dentelles, marbled endpapers, all edges gilt, illustrated. In fine condition. An exceptional presentation.

[Hudson, Henry]

A Chaplain’s Campaign with Gen. Butler.

New-York : Printed For The Author, 1865.

First edition of Henry Hudson’s account of his imprisonment after publishing his hostile criticism of Butler’s military policy in the New York Evening Post. Octavo, modern cloth. Hudson served during the Civil War from 1862 to 1865 as chaplain of the 1st New York Volunteer Engineers, as well as war correspondent for the New YorkContinue reading "A Chaplain’s Campaign with Gen. Butler."

Brockett, L. P., MD, and Vaughn, Mary C

Woman’s Work in the Civil War: A Record of Heroism, Patriotism, and Patience.

Philadelphia : Zeigler, McCurdy, 1867.

First edition of this major early history of Civil War women, published only two years after the war’s end, with authoritative accounts of groundbreaking work by Clara Barton and over 80 field nurses. Thick octavo, original cloth, illustrated with 16 steel-engraved portraits and a contributing essay by Harriet Beecher Stowe. In near fine condition. AContinue reading "Woman’s Work in the Civil War: A Record of Heroism, Patriotism, and Patience."

Ludlam, Stephen [Wall Street]

Early American Wall Street Survey Map.

April 8, 1817.

Rare 1817 hand-colored copy of an original map of early 18th century Wall Street attached to a Deed of Partition between Col. Abraham de Peyster and Samuel Bayard dated January 3rd 1718, copied on April 8th 1817 by Stephen Ludlam, City Surveyor. One page, the hand-colored map details the intersection of Wall Street, Broad Street,Continue reading "Early American Wall Street Survey Map."

Truman, Harry S

The Economic Reports of the President: As Transmitted to the Congress January 1948, January 1947, July 1947.

New York : Reynal & Hitchcock, 1948.

First edition of this compilation of three of Truman’s most memorable economic reports. Octavo, original cloth. Signed by the author opposite the title page, “Most sincerely Harry Truman.” Introduction by President Truman’s Council of Economic Advisers. Near fine in the rare original dust jacket which is price-clipped and in very good condition. Housed in aContinue reading "The Economic Reports of the President: As Transmitted to the Congress January 1948, January 1947, July 1947."

Washington, George; John Adams; Thomas Jefferson; James Madison; Andrew Jackson; Martin Van Buren; William Henry Harrison; James Tyler; James H. Polk; James Buchanan; Zachary Taylor; Millard Fillmore; James Buchanan; Franklin Pierce; Abraham Lincoln; William Seward; Andrew Johnson; Ulysses S. Grant; James Garfield; Chester A. Arthur; Grover Cleveland; Benjamin Harrison; Grover Cleveland; William McKinley; Alexander Hamilton

Autograph Album of the Presidents and Cabinet Officials of the United States of America.

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Rare late 19th century folio album containing an extensive collection of Presidential autographs, letters, carte-de-visites, and portraits in addition to those of each Cabinet. Folio, bound in three quarter morocco with five raised bands and gilt titles to the spine. The album contains: a clipped signature of President George Washington with a four-page letter ofContinue reading "Autograph Album of the Presidents and Cabinet Officials of the United States of America."

Eisenhower, Dwight D

A History of the 90th Division in World War II: 6 June 1944 to 9 May 1945.

Baton Rouge, LA : Army & Navy Publishing Company , 1946.

First edition of this work on the 90th division in World II. Quarto, original leatherette boards, cartographic endpapers, illustrated. Presentation copy, inscribed by General Dwight Eisenhower on the title page, “To Skippe Sheppard Best wishes from Dwight D. Eisenhower.” The recipient, Captain Harlo John Sheppard was in the 712th Tank Division, with his name andContinue reading "A History of the 90th Division in World War II: 6 June 1944 to 9 May 1945."

Franklin, Benjamin

Mémoires de la Vie Privée de Benjamin Franklin, Écrits Par Lui-Même, et Adressés à Son Fils, Suivis d’un Précis Historique de Sa Vie Politique, et de Plusieurs Pièces, Relatives à Ce Père de la Liberté. [Memoirs of Benjamin Franklin].

Paris : Chez Buisson, Libraire, 1791.

True first edition of the first part of Franklin’s famed autobiography which preceded the first English edition by two years. Octavo, bound in full contemporary calf with a morocco spine label lettered in gilt, elaborate period gilt tooling to the spine, ribbon bound in. In very good condition. A nice example.

Rhodes, James Ford [William McKinley and Theodore Roosevelt]

The McKinley and Roosevelt Administrations 1897-1909.

New York : The Macmillan Company, 1922.

First edition of Rhodes’ authoritative work on the McKinley and Roosevelt Administrations. Octavo, bound in full morocco by Zaehnsdorf, gilt titles and ruling to the spine in six compartments within raised gilt bands, gilt turn-ins and inner dentelles, marbled endpapers, all edges gilt, illustrated. In fine condition.

Muir, John

Travels in Alaska.

Boston : Houghton Mifflin Company, 1915.

First edition of the author’s classic work. Octavo, original grey cloth lettered in white, color illustrated paper cover label, top edge gilt. Illustrated with several plates from photographs, including frontispiece with tissue-guard. Near fine in near fine dust jacket with a few small chips. The nicest example we have seen of the rare dust jacket.

[Washington; George; Benjamin Franklin]

The Apotheosis of Franklin and Washington Printed Textile.

c. 1785-1790.

Rare copperplate-printed toile fragment from the popular eighteenth-century English pattern “The Apotheosis of Franklin and Washington.” The fragment features a copper-plate printed portrait of Benjamin Franklin in academic robes and his famous cap after the famed 1777 portrait of him by Jean-Baptiste holding the ends of a banner reading “Where liberty dwells there is myContinue reading "The Apotheosis of Franklin and Washington Printed Textile."