Beschreibung:

An Historical and Geographical Account of the Province and Country of Pensilvania; and of West-New-Jersey in America.
London: Printed for and sold by A. Baldwin, 1698. 2 parts in 1 volume, 8vo (168 x 105 mm). Small folding engraved map by Philip Lea titled Pennsylvania and West Jersey. Section title to the second part. Contemporary ruled sheep, with 8 leaves of original printed binder’s waste sheets (probably Wing G61). Housed in a cloth chemise and morocco-backed slipcase. Condition: hinges a bit tender; minor wear along the front joint. Provenance: Frank T. Siebert (Sotheby’s New York, 21 May 1999, lot 122). first edition. the superb siebert copy of a promotional tract for early settlement in pennsylvania and west jersey. “Thomas’s book is a classic promotional tract, a specific plea to the poor and indigent classes, suggesting emigration, so that they ‘may live plentifully and happily’ in the New World. The first part of the work deals with Pennsylvania, the second part with western New Jersey. Thomas was one of William Penn’s first company of settlers; arriving in 1681. According to his account he remained for fifteen years. In that time he familiarized himself with the local Indians, and the fauna and the flora of the area” (Siebert Sale). Describing the region as a place of health and fertility, in the Preface the author writes: “Nor is there the least question or doubt to be made, but this Noble Spot of Earth will thrive exceedingly.” Alden & Landis 698/214; Burden 728; Church 778; Howes T167; Sabin 95395; Siebert Sale 122 (this copy); Wing T964.