A Fine Collection of American Literature and History

Stedman's Authoratative History of the American Revolution

London: Printed for the Author; and Sold by J. Murray, J. Debrett, and J. Kerby, 1794. In two volumes. First edition. 4to. xv, (i), 399; xv, (i), 449, (14) pp.; including half-titles in each volume, and index at rear of second volume. Illustrated with 15 magnificently engraved maps and plans (11 folding) depicting various battles and military positions; the first plan of Bunker Hill with original engraved overlay. Contemporary full tree calf, red and green morocco spine labels, stamped in gilt, front and rear joints and extremities of each volume rubbed, lower front joint of first volume splitting, spine labels variously chipped; all edges trimmed; light offsetting and scattered foxing in plates; closed tear in title of large folding map facing p. 214 in first volume. Howes S-914; Sabin 91057; Reese, The Revolutionary Hundred, 89; Nebenzahl, Battle Plans of the American Revolution, 29, 55, 57, 76, 87, 90-93, 101, 113, 116, 139, 184, 202

A handsome copy of Charles Stedman's comprehensive history of the American Revolution, "generally considered the best contemporary account of the Revolution written from the British side." (Sabin) Featuring 15 fantastic maps and plans illustrating important battles and military positions during the war, considered "the finest collection of plans assembled by an eyewitness." (Reese). These include depictions of Bunker Hill, Saratoga, the sieges of Savannah and Charleston, the Battle of Camden, and the Battle of Yorktown. Although born in Philadelphia and educated at William and Mary, Stedman (1753-1812) was a staunch Loyalist and served as Commissary of Prisoners under General Howe and then as a commander of a rifle corps of German-speaking soldiers. Twice captured, he escaped each time, and following the war was appointed to examine and settle the claims of American Loyalists under the terms of the Treaty of Paris that ended the conflict. British General Sir Henry Clinton, who served as Commander-in-Chief of British forces in North America, during the conflict, published in the same year his Observations on Mr. Stedman's History of the American War (see lot 6), critically commenting on many aspects of Stedman's account.

A fundamental and scarce work on the American Revolution.