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Offered here is an 1828 edition of A History of the United States of America by Rev. Charles A. Goodrich, published in New York by William W. Reed & Co. This is the Twenty-Third Edition, with the historical narrative brought down through 1827 and an additional geographical view of the United States.
This is a substantial early American history published only about 52 years after the Declaration of Independence. Goodrich's history was widely used during the early 19th century, and bibliographic records confirm this exact 1828 William W. Reed 23rd edition.
The book is especially appealing for its numerous early engraved historical illustrations. The photographs show an engraved portrait of George Washington opposite the title page as well as scenes captioned Pocahontas Saving Captain Smith, First Colonial Assembly in Virginia, Surrender of the Dutch, Punishment of Witchcraft, Mr. Dunstan Saving His Family, and French and Indian War. These early American-history engravings are a major part of the book's appeal.
Bound in what appears to be its old full-leather binding. The front pastedown/endpaper carries early ownership markings including “Dr. L. Colburn” and another handwritten ownership statement reading “This book is now the property of John Leonard Washington.” There is also a handwritten date that appears to read Sept. 17, 1850. These inscriptions are interesting period provenance, although no claim is made regarding the identities of the former owners.
Condition: Fair antique condition with substantial age and use, but a very appealing survivor approaching 200 years old. The full-leather binding is heavily rubbed, scuffed and worn, with significant surface loss and wear along the edges, corners and spine. The leather remains attached. Pages are heavily age-toned with widespread foxing, staining and spotting, along with edge wear and occasional creasing consistent with a heavily used 1828 volume. The page block has considerable waviness and age-related distortion. The engraved illustrations remain remarkably attractive and display well. Early ownership inscriptions and writing are present as described above. Please review all photographs carefully for the best representation of condition.
