Lot 64: BARTRAM, JOHN. 1699-1777. Observations on the Inhabitants, Climate, Soil, Rivers, Productions, Animals, and other matters worthy of Notice ... in his Travels from Pensilvania to Onondago, Oswego and the Lake Ontario, in Canada. To which is annex'd a

Observations on the Inhabitants, Climate, Soil, Rivers, Productions, Animals, and other matters worthy of Notice ... in his Travels from Pensilvania to Onondago, Oswego and the Lake Ontario, in Canada. To which is annex'd a curious Account of the Cataracts at Niagara. By Mr. Peter Kalm.... London: J. Whiston and B. White, 1751.
[2], viii, [9]-94 pp. Folding engraved frontispiece plan of the town of Oswego. 8vo (201 x 115 mm). Period half calf and plain boards, rebacked. Lacking final blank, pale browning to frontispiece, some marginalia, removed bookplate, corners worn and boards darkened.

FIRST EDITION OF THIS IMPORTANT ACCOUNT OF AN EXPEDITION TO VISIT THE CENTRAL COUNCIL FIRE OF THE SIX NATIONS. The frontispiece depicts a plan of the Long House, a structure specific to these tribes. "This is a very reliable work by two of the most eminent observers and naturalists of their day. Bartram made this trip in 1743 with Conrad Weiser, an agent of Pennsylvania, sent to hold a friendly conference with the Iroquois. His principal object in making the trip was to study the flora of the country. He was an expert botanist, and acquired such a reputation that he attracted the attention of Linnæus. His book throws considerable light upon the manners and thoughts of the people with whom he came in contact" (Church). Church further notes that the inclusion of Kalm's account gives us the first scientific description in English of Niagara Falls. There are some early marginalia of interest, including an endorsement of Bartram's character on the preface leaf.
Provenance: early marginalia signed "T.C."; few instances of later marginalia, ownership signature of Frank N. Spencer dated 1955; letterpress bookplate of Eugene & Sadye Power.
Acquisition: Christie's East, Feb 22, 1995, lot 242, $4,025.