TRAVELS THROUGH THE STATES OF NORTH AMERICA, and the Provinces of Upper and Lower Canada, During the Years 1795, 1796, and 1797

Weld Isaac, Junior

Published by London For John Stockdale 1799

2 volumes. First Octavo Edition, Second Edition overall, essentially the same as the first edition but for size and the inclusion of the Errata. Published in the same year as the first edition. A copy with pleasing provenance having once been owned by Francis Weld Peabody (1881 1927) the important American physician born November 24, 1881, in Cambridge, Massachusetts. He was known for his research into poliomyelitis and typhoid, and celebrated as a teacher at Harvard Medical School Illustrated and embellished with sixteen folding plates, including 5 fine maps or plans, one of which is a large folding map of the United States coloured by hand in outline, and eleven other finely engraved views. 8vo, contemporary three-quarter calf over marbled paper covered boards, the spine panels lettered and numbered in gilt with bands separating compartments. xxiii, [1], 427; xii, 376 pp. A handsome copy of this important and impressive work on America. The text-block very clean and unpressed, only slightly mellowed, the folding plates and maps all in good order, some rubbing to the bindings and some age evidence, upper board to Vol. I detached but easily restored. VERY HANDSOME FIRST EDITION OF THESE EARLY TRAVELS THROUGH THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA. Weld, an Englishman, spent years traveling through North America. He had many observationsacross the full spectrum of American life. He explored 'the vast forests and great rivers" typically guided by Indians, and also socialized with the most elite of America, even meeting George Washington. In all, his view of America was rather critical. He found the people to be without couth, the industry backwards, he deplored the treatment of the Native Americans and was revolted by slavery. He left the United States without "slightest wish to revisit it." He had a more favorable experience with the Canadians. ".his account of Canada is a clear and sustained description of an area and a way of life that pleased him more than had the United States." -Story The plates, engraved after Weld's own drawings, reveal that he did find much to admire in North America's scenery and landscapes. Natural wonders such as the Rock Bridge and Hudson River Valley account for most of the views. There are three plates of Niagara Falls, still as awe-inspiring today as during Weld's visit. Seller Inventory # 32250

Bibliographic Details

Title: TRAVELS THROUGH THE STATES OF NORTH AMERICA,...
Publisher: London For John Stockdale 1799
Binding: Hardcover
Edition: 1st Edition