From the Library of Clayre and Jay Micha꧅el Haft

Stedman, Charles

The History of the Origin, Progress, and Termination of the American War. London: Printed for the Author; and sold by J. Murray, J. Debrett and J. Kerby, 1794

Two volumes, 4to (265 x 205 mm). 15 engraved maps (11 folding), that of Bunker Hill with original overslip mis-bound separately, one additional map from another work bouꦏnd in as frontispiece to vol. 1 (J. Savage, “The River Scheldt,” 1832); maps backed with linen repairing old tears and small losses, titles in both volumes cut round and inlaid, foxing, some browning and staining, intermittent repairs. Modern half calf to style, marbled boa🐷rds.

Bound in at the end of the second volume is: Lt. Gen. Sir Henry Clinton, Observations on Mr. Stedman's History of the American War. London: J. Debrett, 1794. 4to. [2], ii, 34 pages.

First edition. Though born in Philadelphia and educated and William and Mary, Stedman was a staunch Loyalist and served in the British army during the War of Independence. His History … of the American War is "considered the best contemporary account of the Revolution written from the British side" (Sabin) and "still worth of study" (Alden, History of the American Revolution). The maps accompanying this work illustrate actions at Bunker Hill, Long Island, New Jersey, Saratoga, Charleston, Camden, Guilford Court House, Yorktown, and other sites. They count among the finest collection of plans depicting ꧂important military engagements assembled by an eyewitness.

REFERENCES:

Howes S914; JCB II:372; Sabin 91057

PROVENANCE:

Major Thorley, 96th Re🌸giment, 1 August 1804 (inscriptions on titles and first text leaves) — Major F.P. Robinson (inscription on title-page of Clinton's Observations) — Colchester Public Library (inkstamps on titles verso, and some internal leaves, including on linen backing of maps)