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 reddish (plum?) pebbled cloth, gilt imprint on spine, 285 pp. + 279 pp. + 8 pages of advertisement at rear of Vol. 2. Large folding map. 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 fine condition, with 1 minor closed tear only affecting the blank margin. 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. Uniform sunning to spine and edges of both volumes. Some soiling to cloth and light edgewear. Light foxing throughout. Previous owner's name and bookplate. Bright gilt on spine. An exceptionally attractive set of a work often found rebound or in poor condition. Highly recommended. .

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