The Text-Book of the Washington Benevolent Society

Containing A Biography and Character of George Washington, His Farewell Address to the People of the United States, and the Federal Constitution, with the Amendments. 

Third edition.  Concord, NH:  George Hough, 1814 

Hardback is overall in VERY GOOD- condition.

• Contemporary boards quarter bound in calf have gilt title on spine. 
• Boards show wear, exposure, scuffing, scratches, bumps, edgewear.  Corners are worn with exposed board.  See photos.
• Spine has gilt text dimmed with chipped ends.  See photos.
• Binding is secure. 
• Pastedowns and feps have some staining, wear, writing, creasing, lower half of first fep torn away, owner's marks.  See photos.
• Frontispiece, a portrait of George Washington, is present.
• Membership Certificate for Asa Blodget is bound in with feps.  See photos.  
• Interior is age-toned, exhibits moderate foxing, some smudges, light edgewear, some page corners turned up; page 3 has closed tear across the text block.  See photos.   
• Inside pages are free of writing and intentional marks.
• Text block edges have some staining.  
• PS2025.0618

105 pages. 2 3/4 x 4 7/8 inches

A scarce original copy of this little book dating from the early days of the American Republic.  Overall in Very Good Minus condition, the boards scuffed, showing hints of original green color, and wear all around the edges.  Interior is tanned with some spotting but very legible.  A portrait of George Washington faces the title page, Membership Certificate of the Washington Benevolent Society is bound into front.

The Washington Benevolent Societies were grass-roots political clubs set up from 1808 to 1816 by the Federalist Party in the U.S. to electioneer for votes.  The first branch of the organization was established in New York City.  Washington's Farewell Address, in book format, was distributed to members of some of the societies.  This volume includes a biography of Washington and the Consititution in addition to the Farewell Address.

An interesting artefact of political organization in the early 19th century, and a piece of family and local history for Rockingham County, New Hampshire.

Bound in at front is the Membership Certificate for Mr. Asa Blodget (sic), noting his membership in the Washington Benevolent Society at Londonderry, County of Rockingham, State of New Hampshire.  Dated November 16, 1814 and signed by John Porter, President, and Wm. Redfield, Secretary pro tem.  This certificate may pertain to Asa Blodgett (1774-1851).

The front fep is inscribed Amory Woodbury.  Possibly the Amory Woodbury (1803-1877) of Bolton (Worcester County) Massachusetts.

Third edition as per the title page.  Printed by Flagg & Gould, Andover.  

Please see photos. More photos available upon request.

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