Lot 734
Thomas, Isaiah (1749-1831) One of the most important and influential colonial printers, Thomas began publishing in 1770 "The Massachusetts Spy", which was anti-British. On April 16, 1775, he moved his press from Boston and three days later fought at Lexington and Concord. He published an eyewitness account of the battle. After the war, his business prospered and he began printing books, including the first "Mother Goose" in 1786.
Scarce Autograph Letter Signed "Isaiah Thomas," 6½ x 8¼ in., Worcester, 3 February 1792. Integral leaf franked "Free. I. Thomas" and addressed by him to "Rev. Jedediah Morse / Charlestown." In part: "? Are we likely to agree respecting printing your Geography? Or ? Is all we have done about it to no purpose? I think if you do not wish the work to be done cheaper then it can be afforded for the Printer to make less than a reasonable price for his labour, that an agreement can easily take place betwixt us. There are two gentlemen with whom I have had considerable conversation respecting a large Geography – if the work should go on they will be in connexion; but all depends seemingly on my being concerned in the Copyright…Have you done anything more respecting a Gazetteer?…." Seal hole in left blank margin. On laid paper. Fine condition. Jedidiah Morse, known as the "Father of American Geography," was the father of telegraph inventor Samuel F.B. Morse.
Estimated Value $1,600 - 1,800.
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| Realized $1,524 |
