The History of Virginia, from Its First Settlement to the Present Day, Volumes I-II (2 volumes)
Petersburg, Virginia: Dickson & Pescud, 1804. 2 Volume Set. 348 pp. + 335 pp. + Appendix. Hardover in marbled paper boards and leather spine with gilt title on spine label. Professionally rebound with raised bands on spine. Some foxing and and browning. Some loss to title page and preceding page in Volume 1. Previous owner signature and inscriptions in both volumes.
An Irish emigre, Burk took up journalism upon arrival in this country, settling in Boston. An anti-Federalist tirade resulted in threatened persecution under the Alien and Sedition Act, and Burk (with the promised protection of Thomas Jefferson) settled in Virginia, in the little town of Petersburg, a hotbed of Republicanism. Burk was an enthusiastic supporter of Jefferson, and was tapped to deliver the official oration on Jefferson's election. His The History of Virginia is dedicated to Jefferson in Volume I, and shows his Republican fervor, and lauds the joy "of the people of America, who feel and acknowledge the practical blessings of liberty under your administration." A secure and attractive copy. (Howes B971; Sabin 9273; Haynes 2499). Very Good binding. Not Ex-Lib. Item #100202
Price: $1,500.00