Stedman, Charles | Charles Stedman's fundamental firsthand account of the Revolution

Stedman, Charles

The History of the Origin, Progress, and Termination of the American War. London: Printed for the Author and sold by J. Murray; J. Debrett; and J. Kerby, 1794

2 volumes, 4to (261 x 204 mm). Half-titles in both volumes, 15 engraved maps (11 folding, 1 with overlay); Occasional foxing, particularly to preliminaries, some offsetting to maps, two-inch closed tear to margin of Fort Clinton & Montgomery map, a few other short marginal tears to maps. Modern three-quarter calf over marbled boards, spines ruled in gilt, morocco lettering- and numbering-pieces, plain endpapers; front hinge vol. 1 starting, tape residue on flyleaf of vol. 1.  

First edition, "considered the best contemporary account of the Revolution written from the British side" (Sabin) and that "remains worthy of study" (Alden, American Revolution, p. 278). the maps accompanying this work illustrate actions at Bunker Hill, Long Island, New Jersey, Saratoga, Charleston, Camden, Guilford Court House, Yorktown, and other battle sites. They count among the finest collection of plans depicting important military engagements assembled by an eyewitness. 

REFERENCE

ESTC T114190; Howes S914; JCB II:372; Revolutionary Hundred 89; Sabin 91057