Beschreibung:

The History of the Origin, Progress, and Termination of the American War.
London: Printed for the Author, 1794. 2 volumes, 4to (280 x 225 mm). 15 engraved maps (11 folding, overslip to the plan of Bunker Hill as issued). Half-titles in each volume. Original boards, manuscript title on spines, uncut. Housed in cloth chemises and a morocco-backed slipcase. Condition : foxing, some offsetting to the maps as usual, small patch to Yorktown map, volume one inner hinge split; some discoloration to the white paper spines, small portion of upper spine of volume two perished. Overall, in remarkable condition for a set in boards. first edition of a cornerstone work in the historiography of the american revolution. Stedman (1753-1812) was born in Philadelphia and as a staunch Loyalist served throughout the war on the British side, including as an officer under Lord Percy at Lexington and Concord, under General Howe in the New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania campaigns, and with Cornwallis in the South. Stedman here describes all the major theatres of war as well as many individual battles, in many cases from first-hand knowledge. The accurate and finely engraved maps and plans depict the sieges of Savannah and Charlestown, and the battles of Bunker Hill, Yorktown, Saratoga, Camden, Guilford and Hobkirk's Hill and others. “Generally considered the best contemporary account of the Revolution written from the British side” (Sabin). very rare in original boards . Only the Park copy has appeared at auction in recent years in the original boards, and that set rebacked and with other condition issues. Howes S914; Sabin 91057.