1822 · New Haven
by Clarke, Rev. C. C.
New Haven: Babcock, J., 1822. 16mo. 32 pp. Illustrated with eight plates, each bearing two engravings by Alexander Anderson. This is the first part of an abridged version of Hundred Wonders of the World, also published by Babcock, and for which an advertisement appears on the title-page verso. The text here deals with the dramatic elements of the natural world—volcanoes, geysers, and caves—with illustrations for each. The author pays particular attention to volanoes, citing specifically the 1812 eruptin of Souffrier Mountain on the island of St. Vincent. The description of the incident narrates the explosion and its aftermath, recounting the fear among the animals and people, including Black slaves, whom the author treats with racist disdain. In publisher's printed wrappers that show some soiling, spine perished but stitching holding well. Even foxing throughout. Very good.
(Inventory #: 29988)