JOHN WELLS

1883 Letter from Rural Ohio Man Suffering Illness and Seeking Neighbourly Support

Ohio, 1883. Ephemera. On offer is a manuscript letter written in 1883 by a rural American man named John Wells. Wells was born in 1818 and lived in the village of Ada, Ohio with his wife, until his passing in 1892 at the age of 73. Wells writes this letter to a Mrs. Boley. In it, he asks her to pay an outstanding sum of $2.00 to the local postmaster. He makes the request stating that he had been ill all winter and not able to leave his home. In its brevity, it points to the difficulties that people faced in their lives in early rural America and the extent to which they needed to rely on family and friends to help manage difficult times. Measuring 8.0 inches by 5.0 inches, it is a single, one-sided sheet. The letter is in good condition with 2 deep fold marks and a slight amount of discolouration along the edges. The handwriting is quite legible. ; Manuscripts; 8vo 8" - 9" tall; 1 pages; Signed by Author. Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0010179

Keywords: Sickness Recovery Letters

GLADYS SMITH WHITE

1929 Simple Diary of a Newton, Massachusetts Widow and Mother of Adult Children

Newton, Massachusetts, 1929. Softcover. On offer is an simple yet interesting diary written by a woman in eastern Massachusetts in 1929.The author of the diary is Gladys Smith White. Our research has found little biographical information about her. She lived on Chase Street in Newton, Massachusetts and was married to Allan S. White. Allan passed away in 1925 and Gladys passed away in 1954. There is a note in a Newton newspaper from 1921 indicating that Allan had been admitted to hospital, so it is reasonable to assume that he was ill for a long period of time before his eventual death. Gladys kept this diary four years after the death of her husband. Context suggests that she may have had several older children. Her entries describe the social activities and day-to-day concerns of a woman who had been recently widowed. Excerpts from the diary follow: “Waxed the floors, then took a bath and went out shopping. Went up to Rebecca’s and played cards this evening. Had a nice time. Ben was here for supper” [Jan 12]. “Went to church. Mr. & Mrs. Hudson called also Mrs Farlett, [ ] Ben & Ginny. [ ] roommate came tonight. Telegram – Choate house burnt” [Feb 24]. “Virginia still home. Went down to Ben’s for the evening. I went to Minie’s” [Mar 26]. “Virginia, Charlotte and I went down to Minie’s for luncheon & Virginia is to stay the week. I am cleaning the house” [May 6]. “Went down to Franklin with Mrs. Blodgette shopping. Met Janet all to luncheon. Then went home with [ ] and Fred. Had nice dinner with them. We went down shopping again. Got things for Alice’s birthday” [Aug 31]. For a Women’s Studies researcher, this small diary offers an interesting glimpse into the world of a middle-aged woman living in small-town Massachusetts during the 1920s. The daily life of her and her friends is now a world away from that of women today and serves as a clear contrast. The diary is small, measuring 4 inches by 2.5 inches. It contains 122 pages plus memoranda. The diary is about 40% complete. The covers are pebbled leather and in good condition, as is the spine and binding. The pages are all intact and the handwriting is legible.; Manuscripts; 32mo 4" - 5" tall; 122 pages; Signed by Author. Good+ with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0011182

Catalogue: 20th Century Manuscript

Keywords: Middle Age ' Great Depression

ALBERT W. WIGGIN JR.

1944-1946 Archive of Insightful, Detailed Letters from a Young Army Man Serving in the Pacific Theater in a Time of Rampant Racism and Political Upheaval

Wisconsin, Texas, Philippines, Luzon. Non-Book. On offer is an outstanding collection of 10 letters written by a young man enlisted in the United States Army during the Second World War. His letters are thorough and situate the reader squarely in the political and social climate of the time, while providing insight into his training, travels and service in the Philippines (under Doug Macarthur or “Dugout Doug”). Our author is Albert W. Wiggin Jr. Born in 1925, Albert grew up with his parents and three siblings in Wakefield, Sanbornville, New Hampshire. Private Wiggin’s (Later Private First Class Wiggin) letters begin in September of 1944 when he is living at Traux Field, near Madison, Wisconsin and attending Army Air Force Eastern Technical Training Center. His final letter is sent in February, 1946, the day after he arrives back home in the United States from his deployment. Through his letters, we learn that he trains to be a radio operator in Wisconsin, prior to being sent to Camp Howze in Texas for “six weeks intensive infantry training”. From there, he is deployed to the Pacific Theater in the Philippines and is involved in the Battle of Luzon. He references “Dougout Doug” (General Doug Macarthur) twice and context clues indicate that Macarthur was the General overseeing his division. Wiggin is a funny, intelligent young man who, at once, understands and accepts his duty to serve, while keeping his eye on the future, always considering his life after the war. Unlike many WWII letter collections, Wiggin does not dwell on his daily tasks (though he does comment on his various assignments, such as building a mess hall when he first arrives in the Philippines and driving trucks of Japanese people to a base camp in Luzon). Rather he infuses his letters with his thoughts on the people around him, on politics of the time and of his plans for the future. Some excerpts from the letters allow the reader to understand the flavor of the archive of letters: “There’s a lot of controversy here on the election and better than 50% section of the fellows seem to be solidly in back of Tom Dewey…Most of the fellows with any education seem to be for Dewey, while most of the Roosevelt supporters are Jews and the mental midgets from the factory and Southern farms” [Wiggin, to his Gramps, November, 1944]. “I was glad to hear of Rowell getting back to the States. It’s too bad about those other fellows. I guess a lot of the guys I went to school with have been killed”. [Wiggin, to his mother, June, 1945]. “Sanbornville is the liveliest place on earth when you compare it with this [hole]” [Wiggin, to his brother, comparing his small New Hampshire town to his station in the Philippines, August, 1945]. ““They aren’t worth a damn as combat soldiers on the line as [they are] always pulling out and taking to the woods” [Wiggin, explaining his feelings about the Filipino soldiers with whom he is working, September, 1945]. “So far it has been a pretty rough war but I don’t figure I’ve done very badly as I only had to sweat out 41 or 42 combat days. I was still plenty glad to get pulled back down here though. They tell me there were 40,000 Japs up there in the hills, posted so as to keep the Flips from working them over” [Wiggin, to his mother, September, 1945]. “Just heard we were in for a Presidential citation for the Luzon campaign” [Wiggin, to his mother, Fall, 1945]. “I have never saw a bigger collection of illiterates in my life, and every one is an authority on everything from spelling to tactics and logistics”; “Another thing that didn't help on the voyage was a bad cold that was aided and abetted by a slight touch of malaria so I had to go back to taking those damn Atabrine tablets again” [Wiggin, to his mother, describing his trip back to America, February, 1946]. The detail with which Pfc Albert Wiggin writes is outstanding and the reader really gets the sense that they are with him throughout his journey. His proximity to important moments in the Pacific Theater is, of course, the highlight of this archive. Getting to know this young man, his humor, his views (though some are unsavory when viewed through a modern lens) and his underlying desire to just get back home is endearing on many levels. All 10 letters are in Good condition. There is some staining on the envelopes due to normal age and some slight staining on some of the letters. There are no rips or tears in the letters and all the handwriting is very legible. Nine of the letters are written in ink while one is written in pencil. Overall G. ; Letters; 8vo 8" - 9" tall; Signed by Author. Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0010310

Catalogue: 20th Century Manuscript

Keywords: 2 Phillippines Educated Soldier

STUART D. WIGGIN

1944-1945 New Hampshire Us Naval Officer’S Letters Home, Discussing Army Academics and Comparing German, Italian and British Submarines

Sampson, New York, New London, Conneticut. Non-Book. On offer are a small collection of two fascinating letters, written by Stuart D. Wiggin, during his service in World War Two (WWII) in the United States Navy. Stuart D. Wiggin was born in 1927 to parents Albert W. Wiggin Sr. And Agnes R. Wiggin. He grew up in Wakefield, Sanbornville, New Hampshire with his parents and three siblings. An outstanding collection of 10 of Stuart’s older brother, Albert W. Wiggin Jr. ’s letters can be found in a separate listing (#0010310). During his time in the U. S. Navy, Stuart was part of the U. S. S. Bushnell Submarine Squadron One, stationed at the U. S. Submarine Base in New London, CT; Camp Shoemaker, CA; Fort George G. Meade, MD; U. S. S. Blackfin, San Francisco; and Fort Devens, Ayer, MA. The letters on offer here were written seven months apart, in December, 1944 and July, 1945. In them, Stuart writes to his grandparents, Mr. And Mrs. A. O. Robinson. The first letter was written on December 7, 1944. At this time, Stuart is an F2 (Fireman Second Class) and is staying at the US Naval Training Centre in Sampson, New York. The letter is not focused on the war, rather on his studies, his friends and the weather and driving conditions around the center. It is funny that his comment about the quality of his academic instruction is no different then the way a 17-year-old in the 21st century may speak of their own classes: “School is just the same as ever and not very interesting. They put too much stress on the wrong things and don’t seem to care very much about the important things”. Stuart acknowledges that while school is not interesting to him, “It is a lot better than a lot of the other service schools and it’s better than being out to sea”. The second letter was written on July 1st, 1945 and contains details that will appeal to naval enthusiasts. Stuart is now an F1 (Fireman First Class) and is stationed in the U. S. Submarine Base in New London, Connecticut. It is a Sunday so he hasn’t much to do. Stuart tells his grandparents that he has been exploring and comparing submarines from Germany, Italy and Britain. He also hangs out with some British Navy Officers who are in the US on his base. An excerpt from the letter follows: “I went down to the lower base to look over some of the boats. I took a look at the German sub which is quite a boat. I was on an Italian sub a couple of weeks ago that had much better accommodations for the men, but the German was the better of the two. We have a couple British subs. Down here now and I went aboard one of them. It was about the dirtiest thing I have ever been on and not much of a boat either…” [Historical Note: This German sub Wiggin mentions is in reference to U-858 which surrendered to the United States Navy in May, 1945]. Taken together, these two letters give insight into the experience of a Navy officer during the Second World War who sees action but also gets an education and observes his surroundings. If the name “Stuart Wiggin” sounds familiar, it is likely because there is a Stuart Wiggin Collection of letters at the University of New England. These are part of the Bush Legacy Collection established by Pres. George H and Barbara Bush at the university. The Bush Legacy Collection also includes the Randall J. Cushing Collection of World War I and World War II Letters, 1914-1963, a collection of approximately 1,500 letters among members of 27 families of U. S. Soldiers in those wars. These letters are separate from that collection and, to the best of our knowledge, the Bush Legacy Collection contains only letters written by Stuart to his parents, not to his grandparents. Both letters are written in pen in an easy cursive hand and fill two sides of single sheets of paper. There is normal signs of age present as the letters and envelopes are slightly discoloured, but there are no rips or tears to the letters or envelopes. Overall G+. ; Letters; 8vo 8" - 9" tall; 2 pages; Signed by Author. Very Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0010310A

Catalogue: 20th Century Manuscript

Keywords: 2 Soldier

GLENN AVERY WILCOX

1948 Manuscript Diary of a Retired Teacher and Science Buff with Deep Roots in the Martinez, California Community

Martinez, California: Martinez, California, 1948. Softcover. On offer is an interesting diary and associated ephemera kept by a retired natural science teacher who was a Cornell University and University of California graduate. His commitment serving his community was only surpassed by his commitment to his family. The author of this diary is Professor Glenn Avery Wilcox (1870-1956). Born in Iowa, his family moved to Litchfield, New York when Glenn was a child. He attended Cornell and graduated with a BSc in 1893. He worked as a teacher in New York and Indiana, and then worked at the University of Arizona, where he married Emma Louise Kester (1867-1953) in 1903. In 1906, Glenn and Emma moved to California, where Glenn took a job teaching natural sciences at Alhambra Union High School in Martinez. He remained there for the duration of his teaching career. Glenn and Emma had a daughter, Mary Elizabeth Wilcox (later Hamma) (1908-2007) and later, two grandchildren, Bernita and George. In 1911, Glenn completed his Master of Science degree in Geology at the University of California. His Master’s thesis focused on the Geomorphology of the Bay Region. Wilcox was the great great grandson of Revolutionary Sergeant Nicholas Randall and a member of the Sons of the American Revolution. He was extremely involved in the Martinez community. He was a member of the Royal Arch Masons, taking on leadership roles such as that of King and treasurer. He was also a member of the Knights of the Pythians and the local Half Century Club. Some excerpts follow, which give the flavour of Glenn’s diary. Of particular note is his assiduous work in recording local weather including temperatures, barometer readings and precipitation. He notes that this is an important part of his daily routine: “[Temp] 48 [Barometer] 30.10 Max 66, Min 44, Max Set 51. Clear Strong W. Wind. Home all day writing a letter to H Grover an old Westmorelang [sic] NY pupil. He wants to know the setup for Magic Year Squares” [Feb 23, 1948]. “T 52, Bar 30.08, Max 72, Min 51, Max Set 51. Emptied the stove pipe of ashes. F & AM Candidate was refused by Committee. Judge Bray gave a talk on improving children. Now 4% of [? ] make criminality. Often the dads are to blame…” [Apr 1, 1948]. “T 58 B 30. 02 West, A few clouds…Max 80, Min 55, Max Set 60…A pleasant day clearing up. The chien was done by 3 PM but we did not eat it until well past 4PM. Bernita and Geo [his grandchildren] amused themselves while Clarence and Elizabeth [his son-in-law and daughter] admired the newly fixed apartment. They will move up in a couple weeks…we were all tired” [May 16, 1948]. “[Temperature] 40 [Barometer] 30.20, Cloudy Wind NW. Max 38-42, Min 42-38, Max Set 40. The day for the K. Of P. Dinner. I wrote more X=Mas cards and received a few. Elizabeth took her car, herself - Mother and Father Bernita, Georgie. There were enough guests and Brothers and Sisters to fill the tables twice. Entertainment: Dancing Girls: singers; a young musician, helpers. Then: A grab bag of presents. The children were served first, then the women, finally the men took what was left. I got a large handkerchief. Geo Glenn Hamma still lacks a day of being 3 years old but he enjoyed himself and was not a nuisance in anything. We got home before 10 P. M. ” [Dec 21, 1948]. A more fulsome picture of Glenn emerges through the ephemera tipped into his diary. It includes insurance cards, a typed message from the Master of his Masonic Lodge, including a listing of all officers and a photograph of nearly 2 dozen members of the Knights of Pythias. For a social historian, this diary offers an excellent look into the life of a very successful, well-educated retired family man and dedicated community member. For weather watchers, this diary records detailed weather for Martinez, California each day in 1948. This diary measures 6.0 x 3.5 inches. The covers are in good condition though the flap shows signs of folding due to age. The binding is intact. The diary contains approximately 122 pages as well as several interesting pieces of ephemera. The majority of the pages are handwritten in ink, though Glenn has used a typewriter for some of his entries and glued them in. The diary is 100% complete. The handwriting is legible. Overall G. ; Manuscripts; 16mo 6" - 7" tall; 122 pages; Signed by Author. Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012055

Keywords: Grandfather Geologist

JOHN FRANKLIN WILD

1891 and 1897 Diaries of a Successful Indiana Entrepreneur, Banker, Husband and Father

Anderson, Indiana, Indianapolis. Softcover. On offer are two diaries of a successful American businessman written six years apart, in 1891 and 1897, following his life as an entrepreneur, husband and, eventually, father. What makes these diaries extra special are the newspaper articles and ephemera the author has included with some of his entries which relate and give context to the events about which he writes. The author of these diaries is John Franklin Wild (1861-1937) was an American entrepreneur and financier. He was born in Noblesville, Indiana, where he began his career partnering with his father, Leonard, and working at his dry goods store. John eventually opened his own dry goods store in Anderson, Indiana in 1884. In 1891, Wild became a banker in Anderson, creating a firm called Campbell, Wild & Co. In 1901, Wild moved to Indianapolis with the banking business and bought out Campbell’s interest. The bank became J. F. Wild & Co. The firm was prominent in the government and municipal bond trading markets. In 1891, Wild married Mary “Minnie” Hannah (1865-1947). Together, they had three children: John Jr, Frances and Forrey. At the end of their lives, John and Minnie moved to California to be near their daughter. The first 7 months of the 1891 diary deals with his work in his dry good business and the social events that occupy his life. “Arrived at store at 7: 35. Worked all day. Closed store at 6. Went to party at Music Hall took Mattie Chittenden Home and retire by 2: 30 AM…” [Jan 2, 1891] [NOTE: Attached to the entry is one of the many newspaper clippings he included in his diaries. This one details all of the guests at the party]. "Arrived at store at 6: 40. Worked all day store at 6. Back to store at 6: 45 and wrote until 8 then back home. Wrote letter to Minnie retired at 10: 00. Edd came at 10: 20 so I got up and chatted until 12 & then to bed . Weather cool" [Mar 6, 1891], [NOTE: Attached to this entry is a newspaper clipping entitled A BIG MERCANTILE DEAL – Mammoth Dry Goods Establishment of J. F. Wild Sold to Malott, Long & Co of Kokomo. This clipping describes the size and extent of his business and marks the change in business direction from dry goods merchant to bond trader / financier]. On Aug 3rd, he notes the sale of his stock: “Sold stock of my dry goods to Black & Thalman for $12,500…” [Aug 3, 1891]“In Chicago all day. At 8 P. M. Was married to Miss Minnie Hannah 89 Evergreen Ave. By Rev. Ziegler. Remained at Hannah’s all night. Retired at 1 A. M. ” [Sept 9, 1891]. The 1897 diary is equally packed with Wild’s notes about his daily life and accompanying ephemera. Some excerpts follow: “Anderson all day. Uptown all morning. Sold our house to Dr. Heath this morning. At home all afternoon. Took care of Frances while Minnie and John went to the “Sousa Band” concert. After supper went up to store. There until 11: 45 then home. Len and Lena at our house all night. Sleighing fine” [Jan 30, 1897]. “Up at 5: 50. Went to Anderson on 6: 35 A. M. Train. Went after horse and carriage. Drove back. Left Anderson 9: 15 A. M. Arrived Indianapolis 6 P. M. Stopped at Ingall’s 1 hour, fed. Lena and Mrs. Donner came down from Anderson today and are at our house. Lena, Mrs. Donner and Minnie went to theatre this evening to see Nat Goodwin in “An American Citizen. ” Home at 12. Retired at 12: 30” [Mar 17, 1897]. “Went to Lebanon on 7: 10 A. M. Train to examine W. Main St. Indianapolis before buying the bonds. At Lou’s for dinner. Home on 1: 49 P. M. Train. At office balance of morning. Minnie and I went to “Shrine” party at Scottish Rite Cathedral, 8: 30 to 11: 45 P. M. Then home” [May 7, 1897]. “Went to Tipton on 7 A. M. Train. Then Mr. Porter and I drove across to Windfall to examine property in regard to some street improvements. I went to Anderson on 3: 36 P. M. Train. At Anderson all evening until 9: 50 P. M. Train then home (collected some delinquent Anderson bonds). Lottie Wild came down from Noblesville this evening to see us in regard to working for us. Minnie employed her and she will come as soon as we return from Winona. We talked until train time. I went down to station with her and she went home on 12: 45 train. Then home and retired” [May 15, 1897]. “43 Woodruff Place Indianapolis Ind. Up at 7. Minnie’s “water broke” at 7: 30 A. M. I then telephone for Dr. Kimberlin who came right out. Made an examination and said Minnie would not be sick until afternoon or evening. Pains began to come regular at 2 P. M. At 3: 30 we telephoned Dr. And he came at once. A fine baby boy was born at 6: 58 P. M. Minnie got along very well. Rose Wisehan is nurse. Retired at 12: 30” [Sept 26, 1897]. As well as the multiple newspaper clippings that relate to his daily entries that Wild has included, other pieces of ephemera are ribbons from the Masonic Order (Scottish Rite) as well as a photocopy of a picture of Wild and an article detailing the sale of his bank building in 2008. For a historian, these two diaries paint a fine picture of the daily life of a quite successful businessman and financier. The newspaper clippings that are attached flesh out the social side of life in this mid-west state. For genealogists, the detailed lists of people who attended the various social events highlighted in the press provide and excellent source of information about people and relationships in that area a century ago. Both diaries have leather covers and measure 5.75x3.5 inches. They both have 365 pages and are both 100% complete. Overall G. ; Manuscripts; 24mo 5" - 6" tall. Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012238

Catalogue: 19th Century Diary

WILLIAM WENTWORTH-FITZWILLIAM, 4TH EARL FITZWILLIAM

1823 Envelope Cover Bearing the Signature of William Wentworth-Fitzwilliam, 4th Earl Fitzwilliam

England, 1823. Ephemera. On offer is a signed envelope front, bearing the signature of William Wentworth-Fitzwilliam, 4th Earl Fitzwilliam (1748-1833). Signed Wentworth Fitzwilliam on the front left of the envelope bottom. It is dated 1823. The text written on the envelope cover reads: To Mr. Wilkinson, Mrs Walker's, Factory Lane, Doncaster. William Wentworth-Fitzwilliam, 4th Earl Fitzwilliam styled Viscount Milton until 1756, was a British Whig statesman of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. In 1782 he inherited his uncle Charles Watson Wentworth's estates, making him one of the richest people in Britain. He played a leading part in Whig politics until the 1820s. The envelope cover measures 9 x 6-1/2 inches flat size. Paper in good condition however, there are two sections outside of envelope front panel torn away with no hand writing affected. Age toning present. Writing is legible. Overall Fair.; Manuscripts; 8vo 8" - 9" tall; 1 pages; Signed by Author. Fair with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012317

Catalogue: 19th Century Manuscript

Keywords: Autograph Nobility

WILLIAM B. KINNEAR, CHARLOTTE SMITH

1868 Canadian Legal Manuscript Power of Attorney Document Signed by New Brunswick Politician William B. Kinnear and Widow of Henry Bowyer Smith

Canada, 1868. Non-Book. On offer is an 1868 legal manuscript document relating to the appointment of Power of Attorney for the recently widowed New Brunswick, Canada resident, Ms. Charlotte LeBaron (Hazen) Smith (1809-1893). Charlotte Smith, widow of Henry Bowyer Smith (1800-1868) , appoints Herries, Farquhar & Co. (Sir Walter Rockcliff Farquhar (1810-1900) and others) as Power of Attorney. Smith signs the document beside an affixed seal. There is a handwritten note by New Brunswick lawyer, judge and politician William B. Kinnear, who died about a month later. Kinnear notarizes the document, writing that he is "a Public Notary in and for the Province of New Brunswick by lawful authority...do hereby certify that I was present and did see Charlotte LeBaron Smith sign seal and deliver the aforgoing instrument..." The primary focus of the contract is dealing with a policy from The Standard Life Assurance Company of Edinburgh. Quite interesting early Canadian legal document from a well to do family in New Brunswick. BIO NOTES: Charlotte LeBaron Hazen was the widow of Henry Bowyer Smith, Collector of Customs, St. John, New Brunswick, who was the son of Charles Douglass Smith, the colonial governor and administrator. They had one child, Sarah Elizabeth Smith (1829-1884) who married. Rev. Charles Lee (1826- 1873). Manuscript signed document, four pages, flat 8 x 12-1/2 inches, folded to 8 x 6-1/4 inches, dated 14th January 1868.; Manuscripts; 8vo 8" - 9" tall; 4 pages; Signed by Author. Good+ with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012350

Catalogue: 19th Century Manuscript

Keywords: Maritimes

WILLIAM LEIGH, 2ND BARON LEIGH OF STONELEIGH ABBEY AND MICHAEL ANTHONY BIDDULPH

1900 Two Handwritten and Signed Letters Connected to William Leigh, 2nd Baron Leigh of Stoneleigh Abbey

England, 1900. Non-Book. On offer are two letters connected to William Leigh, 2nd Baron Leigh of Stoneleigh Abbey (1824-1905). The first is a two-page letter dated Stoneleigh Abbey Jan 28, 1900, handwritten and signed by Leigh to Murray Browne requesting admission for “a Lady to the House of Lords next Tuesday to hear the debate on the Queen’s speech when the war in S. Africa is to be discussed…. ”. The second letter is written to Leigh, handwritten and signed by general and colonel commandant royal artillery, Michael Anthony Biddulph (1823-1904). In this letter, dated January 27, 1900, Biddulph declines Lord Leith’s request for a pass to the House of Commons. The first letter measures 7 x 8-3/4 flat, folded to 7 x 4-3/8 inches. It has three pages of writing. The second letter is a single page measuring 7 x 4-3/8 inches. Both VG+ condition. BIO NOTES: William Leigh, 2nd Baron Leigh of Stoneleigh Abbey. He succeeded to the title of 2nd Baron Leigh of Stoneleigh, co. Warwick [U. K, 1839] on 27 September 1850. An advocate of British imperialism and opponent of women's suffrage. He held the office of Lord-Lieutenant of Warwickshire between 1856 and 1905. He held the office of High Steward of Sutton Coldfield between 1859 and 1892.1 He held the office of High Steward of Sutton Coldfield between 1859 and 1892.1 He held the office of Justice of the Peace (J. P. ) for Gloucestershire.1 He gained the rank of Colonel in the service of the 3rd Battalion, Warwicks Regiment. He was awarded the honorary degree of Doctor of Law (LL. D. ) by Cambridge University, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, England.1 He was invested as a Privy Counsellor (P. C. ) in 1895.1 In 1895 he unsuccessfully stood for North Warwickshire as a Free Trader in the General Election. Quoted from The Peerage online. ; Manuscripts; 12mo 7" - 7½" tall; 4 pages; Signed by Author. Very Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012316

Catalogue: 19th Century Manuscript

Keywords: Nobility History 20th Britain

RICHARD EVERARD WILLIAMS

1924 Diary of a Cornell University Agriculture Student Travelling Through Europe and Studying at the University in Grenoble

Cornell University, Grenoble, London, Paris, Italy, 1924. Hardcover. On offer is a terrific journal covering the travel and studies abroad of an American college student who would go on to graduate from Cornell University, open up a dairy farm, and die before his 40th birthday. The journal belonged to Richard Everard Williams (1902-1937) of New York. Williams was born to Captain Edward Peet Williams (1839-1910) and Laura Carroll (Dennis) Williams (1862-1938). His mother was an accomplished musician who had studied and worked in London in her younger years, and went on to be active in the Liberal party in Washington. His father served two years in the Civil War as a Captain and married Laura following the death of his first wife, Abby Townley. William graduated from Cornell University, Class of 1927, with a BS in Agriculture. He then purchased a large farm in New York and began a dairy farm. In 1927, just before graduation, he married Carolyn May Brooks (1903-1983). They had a son, David Brooks Williams in (1932-1988). Williams’ journal covers a three month period in 1924 during which he crossed the Atlantic to France on the SS Voendam. In France he attended university, and then visited Switzerland and Italy before returning to the United States. He was accompanied by his mother and Aunt Ann Dennis Bursch (1870-1932). This trip is not the first time had been to Europe as he mentions a visit in 1914 [Aug 12]. Williams is an excellent, poetic writer, engaging without meaning to be: “In the evening Adelaide Hooker and I slipped under the rope bearing a “No Admission” sign and tiptoed out onto the bow where we sat for nearly an hour. Every few moments the ship would run into schools of fish which would dart away gleaming with phosphorescence as they swam. The spray which broke from the bow, likewise had a phosphorescent glow. Later, just before I got into my birth an orb having all the appearance of a yellow harvest moon rose up out of the sea and cast its golden light across the gently tossing waters” [June 20]. Williams stopped in London, Paris and Lyon before reaching his initial destination, Grenoble where he enrolled in the University as a student (likely the Gernoble Alpes University) on July 1st. He discusses the lectures he attends and the professors M. Morillot, M. Chevallier, M. Bergson M. Galland, and M. Mengin. When not in classes, Williams and his family visit neighbouring communities, and he discusses his experiences both as a student and tourist, naming his fellow students, parties he attends and places he visits with and without his family: “About 8: 20 this morning, I started out with my lunch for a snowfield just east of Peyron d’Amout ( or d’Amour) , a rocky peak of which the rounded head rises a little northeast of La Meije. My way led up thru lovely alpine meadows and across Chalvachere – a roaring torrent fed my the melting snows of the Glacier de la Meiji. Heated by climbing it was most refreshing to stand on the bridge above it fanned by the cooling breath of air which rose from its icy waters. Far above towered the beautiful and majestic Meiji…” [July 6]. “We left Avignon in 3 auto buses about 8: 30. Our route led through a region which prof Metzger said was typical of the Midi – gently rolling country with rather sparse vegetation suggestive of a hot climate, sprinkled here and there with olive groves, almond groves and vineyards... The sky was a light blue with white clouds here and there, and altho the sun was intensely brilliant, the mistral was blowing sufficiently to make me very glad to wear an overcoat while motoring…” [July 27]. “...At Fontainbleau, we lunched ta the Restaurant de l’Aiglon. Afterward we visited the Chateau which looks like a barracks from the outside but contains much that is stunning. Mention must also be made of the gardens which are refreshing in being much simpler than those of Versailles and of the famous and crowded carp pond…” [Sep 14]. This is not your typical travel diary. It is fascinating to read about the experience of an exchange student with significant resources and accompanied by family, as he is able to see and do so much more than the average 22-year-old. For a geographer or travel buff, this journal paints a wonderful, first-hand view of glimpses of life across Europe in that seemingly golden time following the devastating World War 2. For a genealogist, this journal demonstrates neat connections between Americans and Europeans. This journal covers June 14, the first day of sailing, and concludes on September 28th, when Williams docks in New York. It measures 10x6.5 inches and contains 188 pages. It is about 70% complete. The hardboard covers and the binding are in good condition as are the pages. The spine is securely taped and is in good condition.. There is some slight staining on the covers due to age. The handwriting is quite legible. ; Manuscripts; 8vo 8" - 9" tall; 188 pages; Signed by Author. Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012211

Keywords: Farmer

MAJOR ARTHUR WELLESLEY WILLIAMS

19th Century Manuscript Letters from Major Arthur Wellesley Williams, Once Captain of the 12 Regiment of Light Dragoons

England. Non-Book. On offer are two Autographed Signed Letters (ASL) of Major Arthur Wellesley Williams (1817-1891) regarding business dealings. The letters addressed from Northampton Barracks and one dated August 16th, no year. The second is simply dated "Tuesday". Both letters are addressed only to a "Sir" and both discuss making arrangements for the receipt of books. Arthur Wellesley Williams was a Major in the army, 10th Hussars when he died in 1891. Born on 1817 to Robert Williams and Anne Hughes. Arthur married Rose Stoddart and they had 7 children. Williams was appointed Captain, without purchase, in 1853 in the 12 Regiment of Light Dragoons. Two autograph letters signed. Each; one hand written page of 4 pages; folded to 7-1/4 x 4-1/2 inches. There is an X marked on both letters below heading. Both pieces have a hole in the centre approximately 1/4 inch affecting one word on one page of each letter. Age toned paper with minor soiling. Overall condition otherwise is good. ; Manuscripts; 12mo 7" - 7½" tall; 4 pages; Signed by Author. Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012326

Catalogue: 19th Century Manuscript

Keywords: British Nobility

CAROLINE FRY AKA CAROLINE WILSON

1839 Original, Likely Unpublished Manuscript Poem on the Death of a Young Person by Christian Writer Caroline Fry Aka Caroline Wilson

England, 1839. Non-Book. On offer is a very special handwritten original (possibly unpublished) poem by theologian, writer, poet and Christian educator, Ms. Caroline Fry [Mrs. Caroline Wilson] (1787-1846). The poem on offer is a draft titled "Ex Gx [or EG]...died aged 18 years". It is dated February 7, 1839 and is written and signed in fountain pen. Fry has autographed her poem "Caroline Wilson". The poem is a meditation on the changing seasons and on loss. BIO NOTES: Caroline Fry, later Mrs. Caroline Wilson can rightfully be considered a church theologian, a writer, a poet and a Christian educator. Fry has produced an impressive list of publications over her life. She began her professional writing career in 1823 by writing a monthly periodical called the Assistant of Education, Religious and Literary, which she intended for the education of children. In addition to writing church theology, she wrote devotional meditations, prayers, poetry and recounted moral lessons one might learn from the life stories of people she encountered in her travels throughout the English countryside published in two volumes entitled, The Listener. The manuscript measures 9-1/8 x 7-1/4 inches. One page. A previous owner of the poem has made some notes in light pencil about the author, which does not interfere with the poem itself. The poem is neatly sewn, at the left edge, to 1/2 inch album page flap, small red was seal at top left half covered by this strip, otherwise very good condition.; Manuscripts; 8vo 8" - 9" tall; 1 pages; Signed by Author. Very Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012331

Catalogue: 19th Century Manuscript

Keywords: Woman Women 19th

FRIENDS AND FAMILY OF NANCY WITHERELL

1842-1849 Providence, Rhode Island Lady’S Autograph Album with Stunning Calligraphy and Pastoral Drawings

Providence, Rhode Island, United States. Hardcover. On offer is a beautiful mid-19th century autograph book belonging to a young Rhode Island woman named Nancy Witherell. This small autograph book, so popular in pre-Civil War America, measures 7.75 inches by 6.0 inches and contains 96 pages. It is 26% complete. The book includes 5 pretty black and white plates with line drawings illustrating idealized and pastoral scenes as well as a portrait of a young woman. The cover is worn but still intact. The binding however has come apart and the covers are barely attached. The pages are still bound to the spine and the handwriting is legible. The handwriting displays some very beautiful calligraphy. The owner of this book was a young woman named Nancy Witherell. On the inside front cover she has noted her home as Providence, Rhode Island. Our research has not uncovered any biographical information about her although the family name is extant in Rhode Island and neighbouring Massachusetts. The earliest entry is dated 1842 but there are entries as well from 1844, 1846 and 1849. An interesting entry - written in Greek, Latin and English - ends with the notation "Brown University, Aug 1846. This may suggest a connection to that prestigious institution, though Nancy Witherell does not appear to have attended the school. Some excerpts from the autograph book follow: “To Nancy…May no grief disturb thee/May the pillow of health kiss thy cheek/And when thou art tired of earthly joys/May the curtain of Death close gently around thee/And the expiring lamp of life receive no rude blast/To hasten its extinction/Rebecca Lelee, Boston Mass, June 29th 1842”“Then since the fairest form that's made/Soon withering we shall find/let not possess what never shall fade/The beauties of the mind…Written by your friend FHC xxxxxxx, Providence February 2nd, 1845”. For a historian or genealogist, this little autograph book is a treasure. With numerous signed entries, it provides an excellent map of relationships and a window into friendships in the 19th century. ; Manuscripts; 12mo 7" - 7½" tall; 96 pages; Signed by Author. Fair with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0011074

Keywords: Genealogical History 19th

JOHN WODEHOUSE

1856 Manuscript Letter from British Liberal John Wodehouse About His Upcoming Travel to Russia

England, 1856. Non-Book. On offer is an Autographed Signed Letter (ASL) of John Wodehouse, 1st Earl of Kimberley (1826-1902). Dated Foreign Office, June 2/[18]56. The letter is expressing delight that "Ker" will be in St. Petersburg when he is. Written in the days before his travel for his posting there. Signed, Wodehouse. John Wodehouse was at Petersburg, Russia, exactly two years from June 1856 until May 1858. "Ker" may refer to Henry Ker Seymer (1807-1864) ? ? Of Hanford House was the Member of Parliament for Dorset. Letter measures 7-1/4 x 9 inches. Autograph letter signed. Three pages. Good condition. John Wodehouse, 1st Earl of Kimberley was a British Liberal politician. He held office in every Liberal administration from 1852 to 1895, notably as Secretary of State for the Colonies and as Foreign Secretary. He was known as the Lord Wodehouse from 1846 to 1866. He was the only Liberal to serve in every Cabinet of the Gladstone/ Rosebery time period. He was at the colonial office when responsible government was granted to Cape Colony, and when British Columbia was added to the Dominion of Canada. He was married to Helen Isabella née Webber. ; Manuscripts; 12mo 7" - 7½" tall; 1 pages; Signed by Author. Very Good with no dust jacket .

Katz Fine ManuscriptsProfessional seller

Book number: 0012324

Catalogue: 19th Century Manuscript

Keywords: Plans