Catalog Archive
Auction 112, Lot 798

"Travels in North-America, in the Years 1780, 1781, and 1782, Volume I and II", Chastellux, Francois Jean, Marquis de

Subject: Exploration and Travel Books

Period: 1777 (published)

Publication:

Color: Black & White

Size:
5.3 x 8.5 inches
13.5 x 21.6 cm
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This work, translated from French into English, provides a first-hand perspective of the American Revolution and is one of the great contemporary Revolutionary War accounts. The Marquis de Chastellux was one of the forty members of the French Academy and a Major General in the French army in the late 1700's. He served under the Count de Rochambeau and joined forces with General Washington in the famous march on Yorktown that led to Cornwalis' surrender. These volumes are compiled from the journals of Chastellux's travels in America during this pivotal time in American history. They contain a wealth of information on both military and civilian life in the regions he visited, and his personal impressions of the character and philosophy of many of the Revolution's most important figures such as General Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Samuel Adams, Thomas Paine and General La Fayette. He also gives detailed accounts about his personal involvement with several landmark battles.

Complete with 3 engraved plates of the natural bridge in Virginia and two maps of the regions visited, all folding and tipped in at the back of the volumes. 8vo, contemporary calf, spines extensively tooled and lettered in gilt, board edges tooled in gilt. xv, 462; xii, 432.

References: Howes C-324.

Condition: B

Light foxing to endpapers, title pages, plates and maps - text generally clean. Front cover detached on volume I. Covers loose on volume II. Bindings rubbed with some insect damage.

Estimate: $750 - $850

Sold for: $700

Closed on 9/28/2005

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