Description:

RICHARD STOCKTON
(1730 - 1781) Signer of the Declaration of Independence from New Jersey and member of the Continental Congress. A very rare book from Stockton's library with his bookplate and signed by him on the title page in 1748. The volume is 'Memoirs of the Royal Society; Being a New Abridgement of the Philosophical Transactions', Vol. IX [London: G. Smith], 1741. 541pp. 8vo. with 11 plates. Edited by Benjamin Baddam (c. 1693-1740), a printer and compiler of the Memoirs of the Royal Society. His compilation of the Royal Society's Philosophical Transactions was printed between 1738 and 1744 by Godfrey Smith in ten volumes, with 131 folding plates drawn by G. Smith and engraved by James Hulett. At the head of the title page, Stockton has placed his ownership signature: 'R'd Stockton's 1748' in red ink. Additionally, the front pastedown bears Stockton's very rare armorial bookplate bearing his name printed at bottom. A vain previous owner of the volume placed an ink stamp of his name near both Stockton's signature and at the top of the bookplate, though a conservator could remove both. In the original full leather binding, spine with gilt title and raised hubs though front cover is loosening, spine ends are chipped, and covers are generally worn. Contents are tight and, but for a few very scattered stains, in excellent condition. Books from Stockton's library are especially rare. Betrayed by Tories in 1776, Stockton was arrested and dragged naked through the streets. His home was occupied by British Gen. Charles Cornwallis and his officers who burned his famous library, slashed the wall portraits with bayonets, and destroyed the furniture and all personal property. When Stockton returned to his ruined home, he became disheartened and physically weakened. He withdrew from public life and passed away at the young age of 51.

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April 2, 2025 10:00 AM EDT
Elkton, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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