The Sketch Book of Geoffrey Crayon, 1848 (Antique Book, HB)

The Sketch Book of Geoffrey Crayon: Antique 1848 Edition

This brown hardback edition of The Sketch Book of Geoffrey Crayon, Gent., written by Washington Irving, was published in 1848 by William L. Allison Co. It offers a tangible piece of American literary history. This complete one-volume collection brings together 34 essays and short stories. Irving originally published these works serially between 1819 and 1820. Notably, the book contains two of Irving’s most famous stories: “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” and “Rip Van Winkle.” This edition also features Irving’s first use of the pseudonym Geoffrey Crayon.

A Landmark in American Literature

The Sketch Book was among the first American literary works to achieve wide readership in Britain and Europe. Consequently, it helped advance the reputation of American writers. Indeed, this book introduced international audiences to American voices.

Contents of This Edition

This particular edition includes all original stories. For instance, it features “The Author’s Account of Himself” and “The Voyage.” Other notable entries are “Roscoe,” “The Wife,” and “English Writers on America.” You will find “Rural Life in England” and “The Broken Heart.” Moreover, it contains “The Art of Bookmaking” and “A Royal Poet.” “The Country Church” and “The Widow and Her Son” are present. Readers can enjoy “A Sunday in London” and “The Boar’s Head Tavern, East Cheap.” Furthermore, “The Mutability of Literature” and “Rural Funerals” are included. In addition, “The Inn Kitchen” and “The Spectre Bridegroom” make an appearance. “Westminster Abbey” and a series of Christmas stories (“Christmas,” “The Stage-Coach,” “Christmas Eve,” “Christmas Day,” and “The Christmas Dinner”) are part of the collection. “London Antiques,” “Little Britain,” and “Stratford-on-Avon” offer insights into England. Finally, “Traits of Indian Character,” “Philip of Pokanoket,” “John Bull,” “The Pride of the Village,” “The Angler,” and the concluding “L’Envoy” complete the volume.

Condition and Historical Value

This pre-owned book is in poor condition. For example, the cover is almost completely disconnected from the spine. Some pages are disconnected and loose. You will find significant chipping on brittle, browned pages. Both the cover and spine show wear and tears. There is also foxing and other signs of aging. Although the book is fragile, its historical value remains significant. Thus, it provides an original example for anyone seeking a true 1848 edition.

Support a Worthy Cause

By purchasing this item, you’re supporting Father Joe’s Villages’ mission to prevent and end homelessness in San Diego.

Author: Washington Irving
Publisher: William L. Allison Company
Year: No date, c. 1848
Condition: Pre-owned, poor, brittle brown pages, significant chipping, cover almost disconnected (see photos)