Astoria, Or Anecdotes Of An Enterprise Beyond The Rocky Mountains.

WASHINGTON IRVING

Publication: Carey, Lea & Blanchard, 1836, Philadelphia

First Edition. First Issue (copyright notice on verso of title page of Vol. 1, garbled footnote on page 239 of Vol. 2, folding map in front of Vol. 2). 2 Volumes. Original dark blue pebbled cloth, gilt imprint on spines, 285 pp. + 279 pp. + 8 pages of advertisement at rear of Vol. 2. Large folding Map. "This is one of the best-known works of Western Americana, written by the leading American writer of the day....The author's reputation as the foremost American literary figure of his time, and the interest of the subject, made this a widely read book...the American edition preceded the British version."--Bill Reese, The Best Of The West 67. At the request of John Jacob Astor, Washington Irving agreed to write the story of Astor's ill-fated attempt to control the lucrative fur trade of the Pacific Northwest by establishing a fort at the mouth of the Columbia River in 1811. Irving was given access to Astor's huge collection of manuscript material, and in the Introduction, Irving also acknowledges the use of some information from previously published works: "I have, therefore, availed myself occasionally of collateral lights supplied by the published journals of other travelers who have visited the scenes described: such as Messers. Lewis and Clarke (SIC), Bradbury, Breckenridge, Franchere, and Ross Cox, and make a general acknowledgement of aid received from these quarters." "Classic account of the first American attempt at settlement on the Pacific coast, 1811--initial action towards substantiating our claim to Oregon--including the earliest extended relation of Wilson P. Hunt's overland expedition from St. Louis to that settlement."--Wright Howes. The important map of the overland routes of Robert Stuart and Wilson P. Hunt is found here in near fine condition. Of this map, Carl Wheat gives high praise, "an important milestone in western mapping." "Irving's book is indispensable to the student of early western history..."--George Tweney. Through the combination of Astor's manuscript material and Irving's literary skill, Astoria is a work of historical importance and is truly a pleasure to read. An exceptionally nice set, with some rubbing, damp-staining, and light soiling to original cloth. Previous owner's name in upper corner of front endpapers in both volumes. Some very light foxing scattered throughout both volumes. Some minor, uniform sunning to spines. Lower fore-corner of rear free-endpaper of Volume II is missing. This set is protected in a finely-crafted, half-leather, custom clamshell box. Beautiful rounded, leather spine with raised bands; and bright gilt imprint of title, author, and year of publication.