PBA Galleries

[10], 252 [i.e. 256], 261-319 pp. (folio) 31.2x18.5 cm. (12¼x7¼"), late 19th/early 20th century half morocco & cloth, spine lettered in gilt, raised bands.

Rare compilation of legislative acts and laws of the Colony of New York in the late 17th and early 18th century. Printed by William Bradford (1663-1752), sometimes referred to as "the pioneer printer of the Middle colonies," was the head of a family that included leading publishers for 140 years. Bradford established his press in 1695 after emigrating from England to Philadelphia. After troubles with Pennsylvania authorities regarding freedom of the press, Bradford moved to New York in 1693, becoming the official printer of the colony, and in 1725 began printing the New York Gazette, the first newspaper published in the state. Only one copy of the 1726 printing of the Acts has sold at public auction since 1975, according to American Book Prices Current, in 1985. The present copy of the Acts has the first 5 leaves (the title and index) in facsimile, also in facsimile are pp. 125-128 (signature Ll, missigned Kk), and the final leaf, comprising p. 319, with the verso blank. Pp. 279-288 are shorter than the others and the paper slightly thinner, likely supplied from another copy. Sold as is. Evans 2785. Rubberstamp of the Western Reserve Law School to front pastedown and the (facsimile) title-page. Several ownership signatures on p.1, two crossed out, others being Caleb Riggs and Sam. R. Betts, with dates 1800 and 1827.