Folio (324 x 197 mm). (Lacking map but in facsimile at end, and lacking ads; title-page trimmed at upper margin, scattered stains and spotting to first few leaves.) Early paneled calf, central supralibros gilt on both covers, spine in 6 compartments with 5 raised bands, citrus morocco lettering-pieces gilt in second (splitting to front joint, covers a bit rubbed). Provenance: Society of Writers to the Signet (supralibros, inscription on front free endpaper dated 1812).

FIRST EDITION of the greatest history of New England, a landmark in New England religion and American literature, "the most famous American book of colonial times and the indispensable source for colonial social history" (Streeter). The seven books within give accounts of the settlement and religious development of New England, and include an account of the lives of its governors and magistrates, biographies of sixty famous divines, the founding and history of Harvard College, a history of the Congregational Church of New England, and an account of the "Wars of the Lord", regarding dissident religious sects. Also included is Mather's description of the Salem Witch Trials and the escape of Hannah Dustin, one the most well-known captivity narratives. Church 806; Grolier American 6; Howes M-391; Sabin 46392; Streeter 658; ESTC T79039.

[With:] MATHER. The Wonders of the Invisible World. Being an Account of the Tryals of Several Witches Lately Executed in New-England. London: John Russell Smith, 1862. 8vo. Engraved frontispiece. Original dark plum cloth gilt.