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Massachusetts Items...

For additional items please see our many other pages as well. 

Please see also the following pages: Cape Cod, Nantucket & Vineyard, Mass. Humane Society, Edward Rowe Snow, Souvenir China.

 

8248. Claflin, James W., LIGHTHOUSES AND LIFESAVING ALONG THE MASSACHUSETTS COAST. 1998. 228p. 200 vintage photographs. Published as part of the Images of America series by Arcadia Publishing. This is the first volume in a series of photographic histories of lighthouses and lifesaving along the coasts of the United States. Arcadia is a well known publisher of local and regional histories, including the popular Images of America series. This compact volume features over 200 early photographs dating from the 1870's through the 1940's, drawn from my and other private collections, most never before published and traces the history of these services through photos and text. (M) $21.99.

Also available from the same author:  

LIGHTHOUSES AND LIFESAVING ALONG THE MAINE & NEW HAMPSHIRE COAST

LIGHTHOUSES AND LIFESAVING ALONG THE CONNECTICUT & RHODE ISLAND COAST

 

Filled with early images, many from private collections and never before published.

Read about the heroic 1952 rescue of the crews from the SS Pendleton and SS Fort Mercer, still considered today the most heroic small-boat rescues in Coast Guard history

Read about the lightship crews and their dangerous missions, guarding the shoals and coastline of Cape Cod

Read about the Momomoy Disaster, in which seven life-savers perished while attempting to rescue the crew of the barge Wadena.

Read about Nauset’s famous “Three Sisters” lighthouses, the only such lighthouse configuration in the country, why they were built and what became of them.

Read about the Chatham lights and why they were moved so often.

Read about the Old Harbor Life-Saving Station, who’s crew rescued 34 persons in the first five years of operation.

Read about the many changes at Race Point Light Station and its renewed importance today

1443. Claflin, James W. Lighthouses and Life-Saving Along Cape Cod. Arcadia. 2014. 128p. Soft wraps. With over 200 vintage photographs, this is the fourth volume in a series of photographic histories of lighthouses and lifesaving along the coasts of the United States by the author. For centuries, heroic men and women have guarded the treacherous yet beloved Cape Cod coastlines. From Provincetown to Chatham, Sandwich to Cuttyhunk, and many towns in between, residents have relied on the Atlantic for employment and nourishment. But Cape Cod has always been plagued with a shifting coastline that consistently defies mariners’ efforts to pass through Massachusetts waters. In 1792, as shipping increased, mariners petitioned for a sorely needed lighthouse. It was not until 1797 that the first lighthouse on Cape Cod was built at the Highlands in North Truro. More lights and rescue stations would follow as the seas claimed their toll. Many lightship stations were also established from Chatham through Nantucket Sound to mark the constantly changing sandbars submerged offshore—more than in any other spot along the US coastline. Today, as sea levels change and sands continue to shift, some of these historic stations have been lost or moved, while still others are preserved only in such photographs as these. This compact volume features over 200 early photographs dating from the 1870’s through the 1960’s, drawn from the author’s and other private collections, most never before published, and traces the history of these services through photos and text. (M). $21.99. 

31029. (photo) U.S. Life Saving Station, Manomet, Mass. c.1907. Rare early photo shows the 1901 Duluth-Type life-saving station on the bluff at Manomet Point on the Massachusetts south shore east of Plymouth. View includes a good view of the homes in the surrounding area and the formidable cliffs and rocks in the area. In 1928, the Manomet station surfboat was tossed end over end (pitchpoled) with the loss of Keeper William Cashman and surfmen Griswols and Stark while attempting to rescue the crew from the “Robert E. Lee”. Photo measures 3 ½” x 5 ½” on postcard paper. Dated September 2, 1907. Overall close, detailed view, clean. Rare view. (VG+). $12.

31021. (photo) Plymouth Gurnet Lighthouse in the Fog. Lovely 8” x 10 color photograph shows the beam from Plymouth’s Gurnet Lighthouse shining out through the fog. Beautiful image on Kodak Royal paper, perfect for framing. (F). $32.

30117. (photo) Life-Saving Service Surfboat on Carriage c.1900. Rare clear, close photo shows good view of surfboat on carriage in front of the boatroom. This may be the Newburyport / Merrimack River Station on Plum Island based on the other items that accompanied it years ago. The station appears to be a Bibb #2-Type station. There were two life-saving stations on Plum Island, Newburyport (Merrimack River) on the north end and Knobbs Beach (Plum Island) on the Ipswich end. Photo is clear and close with great early details. Images measure 3 ¾’ x 4 ¾”.  (VG+). $40.

 

6524p. (souvenir creamer) “U. S. Life Saving Station, Salisbury Beach, Mass.”c.1900. An unusual, bold, bright cobalt blue commemorative creamer featuring a beautiful full color image of the “U. S. Life Saving Station, Salisbury Beach, Mass.”. This striking piece has a large 2” full color image of the tall Duluth-type station that was constructed in 1897. The detailed image shows the entire station including the porch, boat ramp and drill pole. This item is quite attractive and unusual, with deep cobalt blue color and gilded trim. Creamer measures 4” wide and is clean and bright. Marked "Tanner Souvenir Made in Germany for Wm. P. Phillips, Salisbury Beach, Mass." A very detailed, striking piece for your display. (VG+). $48.

3013. (albumen photo) Butler Flats Light Station, New Bedford, Mass c. 1898. 7 ½” x 9 ½”. Extremely rare albumen photo by unknown photographer shows great detail of the lighthouse as the Keeper stands at the rail looking on. Butler Flats Light replaced the old Clark's Point Light, which had been active since 1804. The structure was a fairly typical "sparkplug" style lighthouse of the period, built at a cost of $34,000 on a cylindrical cast-iron caisson 35 feet in diameter, which was put into place after five feet of mud was dredged. The cylinder was filled with stone and concrete, then the brick lighthouse was built on top. The 54-foot lighthouse has a storeroom and cistern in the basement, topped by four levels including a keeper's office and two levels of living quarters. The lantern was fitted with a fifth-order Fresnel lens. The tower was painted red for a time, but it was changed to white in 1899, dating this view prior to 1899. Superb close view, clear and crisp. It is extremely difficult to find such early views and this view is certainly one of the larger, better ones. (VG+). $68.

(image not included)

14199a. (document) U.S. Light-House Establishment Repair Voucher, Painting Piles & Braces Narrows (Bug) Light House, Boston Harbor c.1860. Early pre- civil war document details items purchased and delivered to Lieut. C. N. Trumbull, Light House Engineer, for painting the piles and braces of the Boston Narrows Light Station. Items listed include scrapers, etc. at a cost of $2.20. Dated October 5, 1860. Document is signed by Light House Engineer Charles N. Turnbull. Built in 1856, Bug Light stood, until destroyed by fire in 1929, to warn mariners of the dreaded Harding’s Ledge, four miles to the southeast. The lighthouse constructed was a screw-pile type on iron “legs” (thus its nickname "Bug Light"), with a hexagonal wooden dwelling with galvanized metal roof and lantern perched on top. This lighthouse design was quite unusual at the time and was the first such design constructed in New England . Document is good condition, with original folds, some edge wear to top and bottom. . Measures 8 ½” x 14”. (VG). $64.

14199b. (document) U.S. Light-House Establishment Repair Voucher, Painting Piles & Braces Narrows (Bug) Light House, Boston Harbor c.1860. Early pre- civil war document details items purchased and delivered to Lieut. C. N. Trumbull, Light House Engineer, for painting the piles and braces of the Boston Narrows Light Station. Items listed include 1 gallon paraffine varnish, etc. at a cost of $1.25. Dated October 6, 1860. Document is signed by Light House Engineer Charles N. Turnbull. Built in 1856, Bug Light stood, until destroyed by fire in 1929, to warn mariners of the dreaded Harding’s Ledge, four miles to the southeast. The lighthouse constructed was a screw-pile type on iron “legs” (thus its nickname "Bug Light"), with a hexagonal wooden dwelling with galvanized metal roof and lantern perched on top. This lighthouse design was quite unusual at the time and was the first such design constructed in New England . Document is good condition, with original folds, some edge wear to top and bottom. . Measures 8 ½” x 14”. (VG). $64.

16146. (document) Congress of the United States. House of Representatives, Congressman Robert F. Drinan c.1974. Typed letter signed in hand by Congressman Robert F. Drinan to James A. Alford of Watertown, Mass., provides lengthy commentary with regards to proposed provisions to Tax Reform Ammendments that would result in taxation of veterans compensation and military retirement disability pay. Clean, signed in hand, with two original folds. (VG+). $22.

 

1921. (early mounted photo) Dumpling Rock Light Station, Dartmouth, Mass. c.1860-1870 by T.E.M. White Photographer, New Bedford, Mass. Very early image shows the first two-story, stone dwelling with a lantern on its roof perched on Dumpling Rock. The town of Dartmouth, on the south coast of Massachusetts, grew as a center for shipbuilding and whaling in the early nineteenth century. A lighthouse was needed to help guide local shipping traffic, and Dumpling Rock, a few hundred yards offshore from Round Hill Point, was an ideal location. In 1828 a sum was appropriated for a lighthouse. The initial structure consisted of a two-story, stone dwelling with a lantern on its roof. It was first lighted on October 19, 1828. The lantern held a system of ten lamps with 14-inch reflectors, exhibiting a fixed white light visible for 10 nautical miles. In the early 19th century a kind of semaphore system, seen here in the upper right, was employed by the keeper here to announce to New Bedford when a ship was approaching. The merchants of New Bedford, upon seeing the signal, would prepare to sell their goods to the incoming mariners. In 1888, the Lighthouse Board announced that the dwelling was in such bad condition that it would have been a "waste of money to give it further repair." Instead, a new wood-frame dwelling with an attached square light tower was built on the old foundation in 1890, thus dating this photo to before 1890. The image measures about 7” by 9 ½” on 10 ¾” by 13 ¾” mount. The detail is quite good. Notice the Keeper perched in the fog bell tower looking to sea with his telescope. Overall good condition, a few ink spots and some light moisture staining and spotting, primarily to mount but the few on the photo do not detract. A rare early view, will be quite nice framed. (VG-). $210.

24157c. (photo) Point Allerton Life Saving Station c.1890. Early view, clear, close. 4 ¾” x 7” on 6 ½” x 8 ½” original mat. Superb view includes station crew and keeper posing on the front stoop with their station horse. Point Allerton Lifesaving Station was opened on October 15th, 1889 at Hull, southeast of Boston and "west one mile of Point Allerton" with with renown lifesaver Captain Joshua James being appointed as its first keeper at age 62.  Keeper James served until his death "in the line of duty" on March 19th, 1902. Just a bit light, little if any soiling or foxing. (VG). $225. (x)

29370. (copy photo) LIFE SAVER JOSHUA JAMES WITH CREW, Hull, Massachusetts c.1915. 8” x 10”. Superb, crystal clear image shows renown life-saver Joshua James posing with his crew in front of their surfboat. Keeper Joshua James, from the Hull , Mass. Life-Saving Station, was one of the most famous life-savers in Coast Guard history. Joshua James was associated with the Massachusetts Humane Society from his early youth until he was made keeper of the Hull station of the Life-Saving Service. His sixty years of rescues and the medals that he and his crews earned were never equaled by any other keeper or crew. Amazingly clear, perfect for framing. $24.95 each. (x)

 

28430c. [Victorian commemorative Mauchlineware stamp box) c.1900. Superb, rare wooden Victorian covered wooden stamp box features a beautiful b/w lithograph image of the "U.S. Life Saving Station, Salisbury Beach, Mass.” A beautiful little piece box is of hardwood, varnished and measures 1 ¾” x 2 ½” x 1” high with hinged cover. The pretty image shows the Duluth-type station and adjacent lookout tower as well as the crew and surfboat on the station ramp. The cover removes to expose a sloped space for stamps. The wood divider is missing. Such wooden Victorian era commemorative pieces, known as Mauchlineware, are exceptionally difficult to find and are beautiful for display. Clean, very little wear, a beautiful piece. Collecting stamp boxes has become a growing hobby. A most unusual form. (VG+). Quite Rare! $88.

 

18106. (souvenir Mauchlineware napkin  ring) Bakers Island Twin Lights, Beverly, Mass c.1900. Superb, rare wooden Victorian napkin ring features a beautiful b/w lithograph of the two light towers and attached keeper’s dwelling in Salem,Mass. A pretty little piece, the circular napkin ring is of hardwood, varnished and measures 1 ¼” wide x 2” diameter. The pretty, detailed image measures about 1 ¾” oval and is quite nice. The original lights on Baker’s Island went into service on January 3, 1798. The two towers were located on top of a two-story keeper's house, about 40 feet apart at either end of the building. In 1816, one of Baker's Island's twin lights was extinguished and the smaller one was rebuilt, with the new stone tower being three feet shorter than the original lower light. Mariners claimed this made it difficult to distinguish the light from Boston Light, a fact that was proven by an increased number of wrecks. In 1820, the two lights were restored. A new 47-foot tower was built alongside the shorter 1816 tower. Such wooden Victorian era commemorative pieces, known as Mauchlineware, are exceptionally difficult to find and are quite pretty for display. Clean, only very light if any wear. Most Rare! (VG+) $148.

 

28225b. (cabinet photo) Marblehead Neck Lighthouse, Mass. c.1883-1896 by A.G. Van Nostrand, Boston Camera Club. The first lighthouse was built in the part of Marblehead Neck known as Point O'Neck, at the entrance to the harbor. This white brick tower 20 feet high was constructed and first lighted on October 10, 1835. However, the area was growing in popularity as a summer resort, and large cottages began springing up all around the lighthouse. By 1880, the first light was obscured by houses and could not be seen at sea. In 1883 a temporary lantern was put at the top of a 100-foot mast near the lighthouse. This sufficed for a while, but by 1895 it was decided that a new lighthouse was in order. The second Marblehead Light was finished by the following year and was first lighted on April 20, 1896. The guy cables for the temporary mast can still be seen in this photo, this dating it to 1883-1896. Note the curtains in the lantern room. Cabinet photo measures 7” x 9”. Photos of this early light are extremely rare, particularly during this change-over period. Close, clear sepia view, only light staining to margins and a bit of foxing. (VG). $74.

2939c. (stereoview) Marblehead Neck Lighthouse, Mass. c.1870’s by Perkins & Lefavour Photographers, Salem, Mass. The first lighthouse was built in the part of Marblehead Neck known as Point O'Neck, at the entrance to the harbor. A white brick tower 20 feet high was constructed and first lighted on October 10, 1835. However, the area was growing in popularity as a summer resort, and large cottages began springing up all around the lighthouse. By 1880, the first light was obscured by houses and could not be seen at sea. In 1883 a temporary lantern was put at the top of a 100-foot mast near the lighthouse. This sufficed for a while, but by 1895 it was decided that a new lighthouse was in order. The second Marblehead Light was finished by the following year and was first lighted on April 20, 1896. The temporary mast is not to be seen in this photo, this dating it before 1883. Rare early view, a bit light, one slight spot, otherwise quite clean. Photos of this early light are extremely rare. (VG+). $58.

2939d. (stereoview) Marblehead Neck Lighthouse, Mass. c.1870’s by J.L. LeFavour, Salem, Mass. The first lighthouse was built in the part of Marblehead Neck known as Point O'Neck, at the entrance to the harbor. A white brick tower 20 feet high was constructed and first lighted on October 10, 1835. However, the area was growing in popularity as a summer resort, and large cottages began springing up all around the lighthouse. By 1880, the first light was obscured by houses and could not be seen at sea. In 1883 a temporary lantern was put at the top of a 100-foot mast near the lighthouse. This sufficed for a while, but by 1895 it was decided that a new lighthouse was in order. The second Marblehead Light was finished by the following year and was first lighted on April 20, 1896. The temporary mast is not to be seen in this photo, this dating it before 1883. Rare early view, occasional light foxing, light edge wear. Photos of this early light are extremely rare. (VG). $38.

28225c. (boudoir size cabinet photo) Marblehead Neck Lighthouse, Mass. c.1880 by Merrill H Graves, Marblehead Neck. The first lighthouse was built in the part of Marblehead Neck known as Point O'Neck, at the entrance to the harbor. This white brick tower 20 feet high was constructed and first lighted on October 10, 1835. However, the area was growing in popularity as a summer resort, and large cottages began springing up all around the lighthouse. By 1880, the first light was obscured by houses and could not be seen at sea. In 1883 a temporary lantern was put at the top of a 100-foot mast near the lighthouse. This sufficed for a while, but by 1895 it was decided that a new lighthouse was in order. The second Marblehead Light was finished by the following year and was first lighted on April 20, 1896. The temporary light is not in this photo, thus dating it to prior to 1883. Cabinet photo measures 5 ¼” x 8 3/8”. Photos of this early light are extremely rare. Close, clear sepia view, quite clean and crisp, with original photographer’s label on back. (F-). $84.

 

1803. (glass negative) Lighthouse and Fog Signal Trumpet, Massachusetts c.1900. Original 4” x 5" antique glass plate negative shows marvelous detail of the unusual sound director mounted on the fog signal trumpet at Massachusetts Light Station. In some areas fog signals had difficulty penetrating so-called “ghost walk” areas, or such baffles may have been used to shelter the area behind the signal from the penetrating horn’s blast. This may be at Boston’s Long Island Head Light, or one of the cast iron lights on Cape Cod or Martha’s Vineyard, etc. This glass negative is an original from the collection of Boston globe photographer W.J. Berry and was taken for the press during the early 20th century. Image is clear and close and will make wonderful prints. Glass plate negative has been scanned as a positive to show image detail. (VG+). $88. 

 

17156. Boonisar, Richard M. Gurnet Point: A Small Remote Summer Community with a Fascinating History. West Barnstable Press. 2017. 112p. Soft wraps. Gurnet Point is on a point of land at the tip of Duxbury Beach, that extends out from Duxbury and protects Plymouth from the fierce gales. Its first lighthouse was built there in 1768, and in 1806 two Huts of Refuge were erected along the beach by the Massachusetts Humane Society. The first life-saving station was erected at the Gurnet in 1874 following the wreck of Brig “Regulator”. The author has spent summers on the Gurnet since 1939 and brings to this work a wealth of knowledge about the area gleaned from years of research, as well as over 160 early photos from his private collection, nearly all never before published. Includes two wonderfully detailed chapters covering the history of the lighthouses and life-saving stations there. Wonderful reading, well done. (M). $28. 

1819. Brigham, Chester. Ten Pound Island: Where the Coast Guard Earned Its Wings. 2018. Whale’s Jaw Pub. 142p. Soft wraps. It was the 1920s, and flapper-age fervor was in high gear in Gloucester, Massachusetts, fueled by illegal booze flowing into every cove and beach from rum row vessels off-shore. Here are tales of the police chief who dressed as a flapper to infiltrate bootleg circles, and of the convicted bootleggers who, after their stay in a federal penitentiary, were welcomed back to town with a reception at the train station, complete with brass band. With local law enforcement outmatched, the Coast Guard set up a cutter station to combat the rum runners. In charge was young Lieutenant Commander C.C. Von Paulsen. This experienced ship's officer did his best with the pursuit boats under his command, but was frustrated that so many fast rum boats still got by. He knew a better way. Not only a seasoned mariner, Von Paulsen was an aviator - one of the first Coast Guard pilots. With encouragement from higher ups but no funding, he scrambled together a makeshift seaplane base in Gloucester harbor, sharing a tiny island with a lighthouse, the lighthouse keeper's family, and a government fish hatchery. He borrowed a bi-wing seaplane from the Navy and, along with Ensign Leonard Melka, they flew a relentless schedule of patrols that year, scanning thousands of miles of coastal waters to spot rum ships and radio his patrol boats to take up the chase. The results convinced hardened sea officers and Washington politicians alike that there was a role for the Coast Guard in the air. Von Paulsen was granted funding and more planes to expand his shoestring operation on Ten Pound Island into the Coast Guard's first permanent air station. Although bootleg whiskey still found its way into Gloucester, the sea lanes were largely cleared of mob-financed hooch delivery ships. The aircraft on the island were then free to concentrate on search and rescue, and on supporting early efforts, daring and sometimes tragic, to fly across the Atlantic. (M). $22.95.

 

Special Purchase

26114. (Fine art print) The Point Allerton Life Saving Station at Hull, Massachusetts by Donna Elias. 8” x 20”. New, ready to frame print by acclaimed maritime artist Donna Elias presents a wonderful water color-like view of the Bibb #2-Type station built in 1890 on the beach at Nantasket , Massachusetts . Artist Donna Elias began painting for lighthouse prints since the 1980’s. Donna’s lighthouse work continues and today she has completed an astonishing 250 paintings. To accompany her lighthouse collection, she has created “Heroes of the American Coast ”, a series of paintings celebrating the US Lifesaving Service, the forerunner of the Coast Guard, and the sister service of the lighthouse service. Only a hundred or so of these historic structures survive today and the stories of the heroic lifesavers that worked these stations are fascinating. All are in brand new excellent condition. These superb prints regularly retails for up to $15.00 each!  Our price $6.95. (wholesale quantities available)

 

1855. D’Entremont, Jeremy. Wave-Swept Lighthouses of New England. Arcadia. 2018. 128p. Soft wraps. With over 200 vintage photographs. The lighthouse is a pervasive icon in our culture, often used to symbolize positive qualities like faith, guidance, strength, and steadfastness. No structures embody these qualities more than wave-swept lighthouses, which were built to withstand the most extreme forces of wind and ocean waves, often in isolated, rocky locations far offshore. In the United States, the earliest attempts to build wave-swept lighthouses in the 1830s led to several masterpieces of engineering, a few of which are in the New England region. This book primarily focuses on six such structures: Whaleback (Maine), Saddleback Ledge (Maine), Minot’s Ledge (Massachusetts), Halfway Rock (Maine), Graves Ledge (Massachusetts), and Ram Island Ledge (Maine). All of these wave-swept lighthouses stand in rugged testimony to the people who designed and built them, and they also serve to remind us of the struggles and sacrifices of the lighthouse keepers who “kept a good light” for so many years before automation. This compact volume features numerous early photographs dating from the 1880’s to the present, drawn from the author’s and other private collections, most never before published. Filled with early views. (M). $21.99.

 

1790. (glass plate negative) Baker’s Island Twin Lights, Salem, Mass. c.1890. Wonderful large 5” x 7” glass plate negative provides great detail of the two light towers and attached keeper’s dwelling in Salem, Mass. The original lights on Baker’s Island went into service on January 3, 1798. The two towers were located on top of a two-story keeper's house, about 40 feet apart at either end of the building. In 1816, one of Baker's Island's twin lights was extinguished and the smaller one was rebuilt, with the new stone tower being three feet shorter than the original lower light. Mariners claimed this made it difficult to distinguish the light from Boston Light, a fact that was proven by an increased number of wrecks. In 1820, the two lights were restored. A new 47-foot tower was built alongside the shorter 1816 tower. Image is clear and close and will make wonderful prints. (VG+). $76.

1755. (photo) Ipswich Rear Range Lighthouse, Mass c.1937. By Sanborn Studios, Lynn, Mass. In 1881 this 45-foot cast iron tower was erected in the dunes of Crane’s Beach to replace the aged rear light. During its history the sand drifted around the tower, sometimes blocking the entrance and forcing the Keeper to access the tower through a window. In 1939, the cast-iron lighthouse was floated by barge to Edgartown on Martha's Vineyard to replace the light there that had been damaged in the hurricane of 1938. Stamped with the photographer’s stamp and dated November 2, 1937. 2 ¾” x 4 ½”. Clear, close view. (VG+). $22.

17123. (photo) U.S. Life Saving Station, Newburyport / Merrimack River Station on Plum Island c.1905. Close photo provides a good view of the station with a surfman holding a horse in front. There were two life-saving stations on Plum Island, Newburyport (Merrimack River) on the north end and Knobbs Beach (Plum Island) on the Ipswich end. Photo itself is clear and close. Great early detail, on postcard paper. 3 ½” x 5 ½”. (VG+). $46.

1746. (photo) North Scituate Life-Saving Station, Minot, Mass. c.1905. Wonderful rare early image of the early 1887 Bibb #2 Type life saving station on the beach at North Scituate, Massachusetts. Crews from this station worked some of the same rescues as Joshua James’ crew. Measures 3 ½” x 7” on postcard paper. With only mailing address on back. (VG+). $32.

 

1751. (souvenir dish) U.S. Life-Saving Station, Dolliver’s Neck, Gloucester, Mass. c.1900. Most unusual and attractive dish features the Gloucester Life-Saving Station on the West side harbor on a bold 6” dish. This early piece is quite striking and enhanced by a decorative wide teal green/blue edge with gilt decoration. Marked on back “MW Co. Made in Germany for W. G. Brown & Co. Gloucester, Mass.” Dish is clean, bright, clear with detailed image of the Duluth-type station at Dollivers Neck built in 1900. Only light wear to rim. Measures 7” wide overall. An unusually bright, bold piece for display and an exceptionally rare form. (VG-). $48.

1735. Hendrickson, Dyke. Nautical Newburyport: A History of Captains, Clipper Ships and the Coast Guard. 2017. The History Press. 144p. Soft wraps. With 56 Black And White images. Newburyport was once the most dangerous harbor on the East Coast and one of its most prosperous. Local captains and sailors led the nation to battle during the American Revolution and founded the U.S. Coast Guard. They sent vessels to Bombay, the gold rush and the farthest reaches of the world. Author Dyke Hendrickson explores the perfection of the clipper ship, the city’s famous Federalist mansions and the bold adventures from the Age of Sail. Follow the men and women of Newburyport into battle, into gales and into fortune—or ruin. Great reading. (M). $21.99.

 

 

16151. (topographic maps)  Sheet. Atlas Of Massachusetts 1884-1890. Topographical Survey Commission ~ U.S. Geological Survey - Commissioners of the Commonwealth. Francis A. Walker, Henry L. Whiting, N.S. Shaler~ Commissioners. Size 18” x 24” each. From early Atlas of Massachusetts. Beautiful, early, multi-color topographic maps show the important contours and features of the area including the Lighthouses and Life-Saving Stations, light vessels, as well as roads and important town buildings, etc. Each map includes the town mentioned with surrounding towns or portions thereof. Also includes all roads, railway lines, shoals and bars, lakes, rivers and other topographic features, and much more. Maps are quite desirable for framing and are as original. Pick your hometown or favorite area. Unusually clean and crisp. These early coastal and area maps are most desirable for display and bring a premium, particularly on the Cape and the islands. (VG+). 

The 54 Atlas Sheets available individually include: 1. Berlin Sheet.  $12; (2). Pittsfield Sheet. $12; (3). Sheffield Sheet. $12; (5). Becket Sheet. $12; (7). Hawley Sheet. $12; (8). Chesterfield Sheet. $12; (9). Granville Sheet. $12; (10). Greenfield Sheet. $12; (11). Northampton Sheet. $12; (13). Warwick Sheet. $12; (14). Belchertown Sheet. $12; (15). Palmer Sheet. $12; (16). Winchendon Sheet. $12; (17). Barre Sheet. $12; (18). Brookfield Sheet. $12; (19). Fitchburg Sheet. $12; (20). Worcester Sheet. $12; (21). Webster Sheet. $12; (22). Groton Sheet. $12; (24). Blackstone Sheet. $12; (25). Lowell Sheet. $12; (26). Framingham Sheet. $12; (27). Franklin Sheet. $12; (28). Providence Sheet. $12; (29). Haverhill Sheet. $12; (30). Lawrence Sheet. $12; (32). Dedham Sheet. $12; (33). Taunton Sheet. $12; (34). Fall River Sheet. $12; (35). Sakonnet Sheet. $12; (39). Abington Sheet. $12; (40). Middleborough Sheet. $12; (41). New Bedford Sheet.  $18; (49). Muskeget Sheet. $12; (53). Nantucket Sheet. $48;  

15191. (photo) U.S. Life-Saving Station, Manomet Point , Mass. c.1905.  Rare photo shows the 1901 Duluth-Type life-saving station on the bluff at Manomet Point on the Massachusetts south shore. View includes a good view of the beach erosion too as it nears the buildings. In 1928, the Manomet station surfboat was tossed end over end with the loss of Keeper William Cashman and surfmen Griswols and Stark while attempting to rescue the crew from the “Robert E. Lee”. Photos measure 3 ½” x 5 ½” on postcard paper, postmarked 1905. Both sides have notations but otherwise overall clean. Rare view. (VG). $14.

15166. (photo) Eastern Point Light Station, Gloucester, Mass. c.1940-50’s. Good close view of the many buildinga at this well known light station on Massachusetts’ Cape Ann. Note the bell fog signal building. Measures 3 ¼” x 5 ¼” overall. Clean, crisp. $24.

 

1687. (topographic map) Massachusetts, Boston and Vicinity Quadrangle, October 1903 edition, reprinted July 1908. Geological Survey. 19 ¼” x 30” +. Scale 1:62,500, 1” = 1 mile. Contour lines at 20-foot intervals. Double page plate from early atlas. Beautiful, early, three color topographic map shows the important contours and features of the area including the lighthouses and range lights, Life-Saving Stations, as well as roads, railroads, harbor, the many islands and important features. This map includes the area from Marblehead south to Cohasset and Minot’s Ledge Lighthouse, west to Waltham and east to Boston Lightship, including the many islands in Boston Harbor and east to the Boston Lightship. Detailed map includes harbors, shoals and bars, as well as lighthouses, US Life-Saving Stations, military forts, roads, railroads, individual houses and other buildings and much more. Named railroads include the Boston& Albany; the New York, New Haven & Hartford; the Boston & Maine; and the narrow-gauge Boston, Revere Beach & Lynn. This map is in very good condition, bright and clean, with no marks, rips, or tears save one slight wrinkle at vertical center fold, as issued. Plate is quite desirable for framing, a beautiful piece. These early coastal maps are most desirable for display and bring a premium, particularly of this area. Near fine. (VG+) $174. 

 

2438b. (photo) Schooner Helena, Wrecked off Fourth Cliff, Scituate, Mass. c.1909. Fine clear image features the Schooner Helena, wrecked off Fourth Cliff, Scituate, Mass. c.1909. The Schooner Helena washed up on Humarock Beach in a storm on January 31, 1909. just south of the main opening.  It was sailing from Fernandia to Boston laden with lumber, and was a total loss. Unusually good view, great early detail, very close, on postcard paper. (VG+). $38.

15143a,b,c. (photos) Baker’s Island Light Station, Salem, Mass. c.1950’s by Crocker and Company Photographers, Boston. 55-acre Baker’s Island lies about three miles east of the entrance to Salem’s harbor. The first pair of lighthouses here were constructed in 1798. Included here are three professional photographs, all 8” x 10” in a mat finish. Includes two views of the station and th email lighthouse, probably in the 1950’s or 60’s showing good detail of the light tower and the station. The third view is a copy photograph of a pre 1926 photo showing both light towers and the large horn for the fog signal siren, out buildings and more. Nice views, clear, clean, only one ½” edge tear. (VG+). Lot 3 photos $158 or $58 each. 

14295b. (photo) Stranded freighter Etrusco Aground at Scituate, Mass. c.1956. Press photo measures 7” x 9” and provides great detail of the stranded freighter Etrusco on Cedar Point in Scituate, Massachusetts during the Saint Patrick’s Eve Blizzard of 1956. Despite the gale blowing eighty and the wind-whipped waves and snow, the crew of thirty were rescued by the Coast Guard using the breeches buoy apparatus. Close, clear, with great detail. Photo is b/w and includes date on back. Dated March 19, 1956. (VG+). $38.

 

15218. Richmond, Arthur P. Massachusetts Lighthouses and Lightships. Schiffer. 2015. 256p. DJ. A must-have book for the lighthouse enthusiast, maritime buff, and anyone who is interested in Massachusetts history. Massachusetts Lighthouses and Lightships includes more than 850 images, many never before published. Also include historic plans that describe the details of these aids to navigation, and archival and contemporary photos that trace through their history. The book covers all the lighthouses and lightships that marked the shores (exclusive of Cape Cod and the Islands) and guided mariners through the challenging waters surrounding Massachusetts. This volume also explores the interiors of towers, shows the lantern rooms of rarely-visited lighthouses and gives fascinating facts about these beacons over their 200-year history. More than 876 images in color and b/w, some more than 130 years old, show the original towers and stations. (M). $44.99.

 

Available once again:

 

  20209d. Webber, Bernard C., CHATHAM “The Lifeboatmen”. Orleans , Mass. 1985. 1st. 128p. Illustrated with numerous photographs. Late in February 1952, a northeaster swept New England with bitter cold, snow and gale force winds. East of Chatham 70-knot winds and 60-foot seas battered merchant vessels as the tankers SS Fort Mercer and SS Pendleton met the full force of the storm. They both broke in two on the morning of February 19th with 84 half-frozen men marooned on the battered hulks. The story of how these men were rescued is retold even today. In the days following the ordeal, twenty-one Coast Guardsmen would be decorated. The men who ventured into 60-foot seas in the little 36-foot CG36500 motor lifeboat to rescue the tanker crews showed what heroism really is. How this all came about, and the story of life at Cape Cod small boat stations in the 1950’s, is a tale well worth reading and a tribute to Coast Guardsmen everywhere.  Wonderful reading. (M).  $44.95.

Special numbered edition with actual wood piece from MLB CG-36500.  $59.95. 

 

15208. Lawrence, Matthew, John Galluzzo and Deborah Marx. Shipwrecks of Stellwagen Bank: Disaster in New England's National Marine Sanctuary. 2015. History Press. 144p. Soft wraps. Beneath the churning surface of Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary rest the bones of shipwrecks and sailors alike. Massachusetts’ ports connected its citizens to the world, and the number of merchant and fishing vessels grew alongside the nation’s development. Hundreds of ships sank on the trade routes and fishing grounds between Cape Cod and Cape Ann. Their stories are waiting to be uncovered—from the ill-fated steamship Portland to collided schooners Frank A. Palmer and Louise B. Crary and the burned dragger Joffre. Join historian John Galluzzo and maritime archaeologists Matthew Lawrence and Deborah Marx as they dive in to investigate the sunken vessels and captivating history of New England’s only national marine sanctuary. Illustrated with over 50 b/w photos. (M). $21.99. (x)

 

(photo not included)

14324. Brown, Edward R. Guardian of the Flame: The Story of Hospital Point Lighthouse Keeper Joseph Henry. Beverly Historical Society. 2009. 32p. Soft wraps. For decades, Beverly, Massachusetts, boasted an active fishing and trading port, but it took the maritime commerce in adjacent Salem to motivate The Lighthouse Board to establish a lighthouse at Hospital Point. Joseph Henry Herrick served as Hospital Point Light Keeper for the 43 years between 1873 and 1917. A native of Beverly and a Civil War veteran, he had worked as a shoemaker in his hometown before he became Hospital Point Light Keeper. Joseph Henry Herrick never received a pay raise from the Lighthouse Service and he never missed a day of work while he kept the light and raised his family in the keeper’s house. When he retired in 1917, he noted that his salary had stayed the same as it had been when he started in 1874, except for a small food allowance. The Beverly Historical Society has preserved several of Joseph Henry Herrick’s lighthouse journals which, besides routine weather entries, contain notes about life at sea and in his home town. Keeper Herrick entered the names of nearly everyone who visited the lighthouse, but he didn’t write his own name in his journal even once. Interesting account. (F). $26.

 

4349e. (stereoview) Annisquam Lighthouse, Cape Ann , Mass. c.1900 by Proctor Brothers, Gloucester. Rare view of the tall white light tower and attached walkway on the rocky shore as Victorian visitors picnic in the foreground. This extremely rare view shows good detail of the tower with the curtains drawn and the walkway arrangement. View is clear with only very light soiling, light wear. (VG). $44. 

1565. (photo) Hospital Point Lighthouse, Beverly, Mass. c.1906. Close early photo of the light tower and keeper’s house at Hospital Point. For decades, Beverly, Massachusetts, boasted an active fishing and trading port, but it took the maritime commerce in adjacent Salem to motivate The Lighthouse Board to establish a lighthouse at Hospital Point. Joseph Henry Herrick served as Hospital Point Light Keeper for the 43 years between 1873 and 1917. This photo was taken during Keeper Herrick’s tenure. Keeper Herrick never received a pay raise from the Lighthouse Service and he never missed a day of work while he kept the light and raised his family in the keeper’s house. Photo remains clear and sharp and measures 3 ½” x 5 ½” on postcard paper. Postmarked April 16, 1906. (VG+). $24.

14169. (photo) Plum Island Life Saving Station Crew, Newburyport, Mass. c.1880-1900 view. Clear, close original 8” x 10” photo printed from original glass plate negative by Peabody Essex Museum, shows great detail as the crew launches their surfboat into the breakers for training. Nice view of the surfboat and crew. Clear, great for framing or research. (VG+). $26.

13462d. (photo) Schooner Nancy Aground on Nantasket Beach, February 20, 1927. Rare close photo shows the five masted schooner aground on the beach. The Nancy, a five masted schooner, was dragged anchor and was wrecked on Nantasket Beach during the storm of February 20, 1927. Built 1918 at Portland, OR., she was 259 ft long. The Nancy remained on Nantasket Beach for years and became a major tourist attraction. Until she was salvaged, dynamited and burned to the sand, thousands visited the scene. Eventually the hull was burned and the keel disappeared under the sand. Today only the keel remains - buried under the sand. Measures 3 ½” x 5 ½” on postcard paper. Clean, clear, very nice view. Rare. (VG+). $64. 

14275. (photo) New Barracks at Coast Guard Air Station Salem, Mass. c.1937. Clear, close original 8” x 10” press photo shows great detail of the new barracks building at Coast Guard Air Station Salem. With little room to expand at Gloucester, a new air station was established at Salem in 1935. Salem CGAS as it became to be known was built with a barracks, shown here, hangar, a tarmac, and a ramp. In 1950, Air Detachment Quonset Point, Rhode Island was established as a sub unit of Air Station Salem. During the 1950s, helicopters were introduced with a great deal of success as a rescue platform. With the development of the HH-52A, an amphibious helicopter, the need for a flying boat was lessened. Therefore, air stations having only water landing capabilities, such as Salem, were phased out. It was eventually replaced by Coast Guard Air Station Cape Cod in 1970. Photo is b/w and includes date and description on back. Clear and close view. Dated June 2, 1937. (VG+). $42.

 

2054d. [paperweight] Heavy glass paperweight featuring an early c.1910 photograph of the ”Crew Life-Saving Station, Salisbury Beach, Mass.” This rare item features a superb detailed image of the life-saving station boatroom as the crew poses on the ramp with their surfboat. Excellent early Life-Saving Service image, clear, crisp, unusually bright. Paperweight measures 2 ½” x 4” x 1”. May be by Pyro Photo, New York. (F-). $155.

13462a. (photo) Schooner Nancy Aground on Nantasket Beach, February 20, 1927. Rare close photo shows the five masted schooner aground on the beach. The Nancy, a five masted schooner, was dragged anchor and was wrecked on Nantasket Beach during the storm of February 20, 1927. Built 1918 at Portland, OR., she was 259 ft long. The Nancy remained on Nantasket Beach for years and became a major tourist attraction. Until she was salvaged, dynamited and burned to the sand, thousands visited the scene. Eventually the hull was burned and the keel disappeared under the sand. Today only the keel remains - buried under the sand. Photo measures 3” x 4 ½” Clear, close, a few spots, light wear. (VG-). $32.

1432. (photo) U. S. Life Saving Station, Salisbury Beach, Mass c.1897. Early cyanotype photo provides clear close view of the tall Duluth-Type station located just south of the New Hampshire state line in 1897, the year of its construction. The detailed image shows the entire station including the porch, boat ramp and drill pole. Image is circular 3 ¼” in diameter, still mounted on a portion of early album page. Labeled in pencil October 30, 1897. Overall 4 ½” x 6”. Attractive, good view. Light wear. (VG). $24.

 

12164. (mounted photo) Butler Flats Light Station, New Bedford, Mass c. 1898. 6 ½” x 8 ½”. Extremely rare mounted photo by unknown photographer shows great detail of the lighthouse, probably while nearing completion of construction before it was painted. Butler Flats Light replaced the old Clark's Point Light, which had been active since 1804. The structure was a fairly typical "sparkplug" style lighthouse of the period, built on a cylindrical cast-iron caisson 35 feet in diameter, which was put into place after five feet of mud was dredged. The cylinder was filled with stone and concrete, then the brick lighthouse was built on top. The 54-foot lighthouse has a storeroom and cistern in the basement, topped by four levels including a keeper's office and two levels of living quarters. The lantern was fitted with a fifth-order Fresnel lens. The tower was painted red for a time, but it was changed to white in 1899. Superb close view, clear and only light wear to mount. It is extremely difficult to find such early views and this view is certainly one of the larger, better ones. Measures 8 ” x 10” overall. (VG+). $110.

12165. (mounted photo) Butler Flats Light Station, New Bedford, Mass c. 1897. 6 ½” x 8 ½”. Rare mounted photo by unknown photographer shows great detail of the lighthouse a few years after completion of construction. View includes the surrounding harbor including a gas lighted buoy in the foreground. Superb clear view, only light wear to mount. It is extremely difficult to find such early views and this view is certainly one of the larger, better ones. Dated October 1897. (VG+). $68.

13210. (souvenir Mauchlineware napkin  ring) Hospital Point Light House, Beverly, Mass c.1900. Superb, rare wooden Victorian napkin ring features a beautiful b/w lithograph of the lovely Victorian light tower at Hospital Point on the Massachusetts North Shore. A pretty little piece, the circular napkin ring is of hardwood, varnished and measures 1 ¼” wide x 2” diameter. The pretty, detailed image measures about 1 ½” oval and cuts off the lantern room a bit but still a nice image. Such wooden Victorian era commemorative pieces, known as Mauchlineware, are exceptionally difficult to find and are quite pretty for display. Clean, light wear, a few slight chips. Most Rare! $74.

13106. Krensky, Stephen. Illustrated by Stacey Schuett. SISTERS OF SCITUATE LIGHT. Penguin. 2008. 32p. When the British threaten their town during the War of 1812, two patriotic sisters outwit the marauding redcoats in this true story. In September of 1814, the British have recently invaded Washington and burned the White House. Rebecca and Abbie Bates live with their family in a house next to the Scituate Light in Scituate, Mass., where, as lighthouse keeper, their father Simeon prevents approaching ships from running aground. When Simeon goes away on a short trip, he leaves 21-year-old Rebecca and 17-year-old Abbie behind to watch the lighthouse. While Simeon’s away, the British return, eager to attack the town again, but the vigilant Bates sisters see the invading sailors and cleverly use their Yankee ingenuity to trick the British and save Scituate. Relying on a dramatic use of light and color, Schuett’s illustrations intensify the suspense in this little-known historical incident with real-life heroines whose quick-witted defense of their town is sure to inspire. (Picture book. 6-10) (M). $12.

 

13257. Lawrence, Edward A. A Discourse Delivered at Marblehead, December, 1846, on the Disasters at Sea, Sept. 19, 1846. Marblehead. 1848. 20p. Soft  wraps. On September 19, 1846, while the Marblehead fleet prepared to haul its catch of cod from the Grand Banks of Newfoundland, a massive storm with hurricane-force gales caught the fleet by surprise. The crippled ships limped back to Marblehead, missing at least eleven vessels. Edward Lawrence describes the scene: “Death, ghastly, terrible death, stood frightfully before them; screeching winds howled dismally around them….” Left were 43 widows and 155 children. This discourse was presented by the author at a number of churches at the time in sad commemoration of the incident and the many lives lost. Includes many details of the losses and of those remaining in Marblehead to mourn the loss. Includes listing of vessels and crews lost. Wraps are intact, only light wear to edges and a bit of very light foxing. Contents clean and tight. Most interesting reading and an invaluable reference. (VG). $126.

 

13342. Galluzzo, John. Looking Back at South Shore History: From Plymouth Rock to Quincy Granite. History Press. 2013. 176p. Soft wraps. From Plymouth Rock to Quincy granite, the South Shore of Boston has been a place of revolution, relaxation and revelation. Artists have gained inspiration from the meeting of sea and shore, enemy navies have targeted its strategic ports and, in better days, merrymakers have sought its warming sun, cooling breezes, amusement parks and historic and natural landmarks. The Toll House Cookie, the song "When the Red, Red Robin (Comes Bob, Bob, Bobbin' Along)" and the U.S. Navy's rallying cry "Don't give up the ship!" all were South Shore born. John Galluzzo, author of The North River: Scenic Waterway of the South Shore and When Hull Freezes Over, gathers the best of his "Look Back" column in this compilation of historic vignettes from South Shore Living magazine. Includes chapter on The First Keepers of Scituate Light and more. (M). $19.99. (x)

 

6524o. (souvenir creamer) c.1900. An unusual, bold, bright cobalt blue commemorative creamer featuring a beautiful full color image of the “U. S. Life Saving Station, Salisbury Beach, Mass.”. This striking piece has a large 2” full color image of the tall Duluth-type station that was constructed in 1897. The detailed image shows the entire station including the porch, boat ramp and drill pole. This item is quite attractive and unusual, with deep cobalt blue color and gilded trim. Creamer measures 4” wide and is clean and bright. A very detailed, striking piece for your display. (VG+). $74.

2073. Snowman, Sally R. PH.D., and James G. Thomson. BOSTON LIGHT, A HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE. Plymouth, Mass. 1999. 280p. Soft wraps. Well illustrated with over 120 photographs (80 in color) and illustrations. This is one of the few books ever book to detail the entire history of America’s first light station and what life was like on Little Brewster Island since 1611. Boston Light Station, established in 1716, is America’s first lighthouse and the only station still staffed by Coast Guard personnel. This most interesting volume presents 283 years of history and is the result of over five years of intensive research. The authors, Sally R. Snowman, PH.D. and James G. Thomson have painstakingly provided the reader with a wealth of information on one of the most historic sites in America. Well supplemented with numerous documents, photographs, floor plans, diagrams and more. Included is a lengthy chronological listing of events relating to the station, listing of keepers, detailed bibliographical notes, and more. Great reading and a most useful reference. Out of print. (M). $55.

 

13244. St. Germain, Paul. Lighthouses and Lifesaving Stations on Cape Ann. Arcadia. 2013. 128p. Soft wraps. 180 vintage photographs. The maritime history of Cape Ann, on the northern coast of Massachusetts, is filled with stories of heroism, adventure, and human endeavor. The lighthouses and life-saving stations surrounding Cape Ann since the late 18th century have served to protect and safeguard the area’s mariners and major industries. Fishing, shipbuilding, and granite quarrying businesses all flourished under their watchful eyes. They provided artists with spectacular subject matter and attracted tourists from around the world to visit them. This book highlights the heroism and dedication of the lighthouse keepers and life-saving surfmen who served. This interesting volume draws images from public and private collections, most never before published. Superb photographs of the station, keepers, equipment  and more, well worth it. (M). $21.99. (x)

 

 

13189. Richmond, Arthur P. Massachusetts Lighthouses: Past & Present. Schiffer. 2013. 160p. DJ. A must-have book for the lighthouse enthusiast, maritime buff, and anyone who is interested in Massachusetts history, Massachusetts Lighthouses Past and Present describes the more than sixty lighthouse stations that have been found along the coast from Fall River in the south to Salisbury in the north, near the New Hampshire border. The lighthouse station locations are identified using navigational charts and their characteristics, including date established, tower structure, optics, fog signals, and many more significant topics are presented in a straightforward table format. A dozen or so lighthouses that no longer exist, and probably are not as well known, are also discussed. More than four hundred images, some more than 130 years old, show the original towers and stations and are accompanied by present-day photographs of these beacons. Numerous images show the insides of towers and lantern rooms not only in those open to the public for tours, but also in restricted or rarely visited lighthouses. (M). Published at $34.99. Our Price $31.50. (x)

 

12455b. [photo] Merrimack River Coast Guard Station, Plum Island, Newburyport, Massachusetts c.1969. Official Coast Guard photo provides four good views of the closed 1930’s station building and later lookout tower as the seas began to encroach on the building foundation. The original station, first called Plum Island (later Newburyport) was built c.1873-1877. At some point during the Coast Guard years it was renamed as Station Merrimac. The station's buildings were rebuilt a number of times and its location shifted due to beach erosion when a new station was built in the late 1960s. Photo is clear and crisp, dated December 29, 1969. (VG+). $46.

  

12479. (mounted photo) Captain Thomas J. Maddock and Crew, Merrimack River Life-Saving Station, Plum Island, Newburyport, Massachusetts c.1900-1910. Close clear mounted photo provides a good view of the crew posing at the Bibb #2 station with the boatroom doors open and beach cart on the ramp. Captain Maddock is leaning on the beach cart wheel, with his dog laying in front. His five-man crew are posing in the beach-cart pulling ropes. Photo itself is quite clear and crisp, on original grey mount. Mount has one missing corner 2”, a few stains to margins. Will mat and frame nicely. Great early detail. 4” x 5 ½” on 7 ½” x 9”. (VG). $185.

 

  

4521h. (stereoview) Thacher’s Island South Lighthouse, Cape Ann, Mass. c.1900 by Cook and Friend, Gloucester, Mass. Close, clear view shows great detail of the tall south light tower connected by a long enclosed walkway to the 1 ½-story keeper’s house. View us unusually clear, clean and close. (VG+). $98.

  

12320. (newspaper page) Two Hundred Lives Were Lost… Conservative Estimate of the Storm’s Victims Along New England Coast… Bodies of Luckless Voyagers are Strewn Along the Rocky Beach…. The Philadelphia Inquirer. December 1, 1898. Full front page includes lengthy ¾ column article on the loss of the SS Portland and loss of life along the New England coast. Excellent reference and reading. Full page has been encased in plastic for protection. (VG). $44.

 

1297b. [glass projection slide] Plum Island Lighthouse, Newburyport, Mass. c.1900.  Excellent  b/w glass projection slide by Dr. A. H. Gilson, Stereopticons and Supplies, Boston, features a close, clear view of the replacement 1898 Plum Island light tower and surrounding area. Plum Island, a nine-mile long barrier island off the northern coast of Massachusetts. During its nineteenth-century heyday as a resort, steamships and a trolley line serviced Plum Island. The present Plum Island Lighthouse was first lighted on September 20, 1898, probably the third or fourth lighthouse on this site. This image was likely taken shortly after the station was rebuilt, with a new light tower. The glass slide is large 3 ¼” x 4” and would provide a large clear view. Fine, clear image, close, quite detailed, rare. (VG+). $48.

  

6641. Wood, Vincent L., PLUM ISLAND RECOLLECTIONS - Views and Reminiscences of Plum Island c.1900 Recounting the Deeds of Capt. Thomas J. Maddock and the Crew of the U. S. Merrimack River Life-Saving Station, Plum Island, Massachusetts. Newburyport . 1995. 81p. Soft wraps. Signed by the author. Whatever your interest, you are sure to enjoy this readable account of every day life at a station of the U. S. Life-Saving Service. This wonderful account of life as Keeper of the Merrimack River Life-Saving Station brings together over 80 never before published vintage photographs made from the family’s archives of glass plate negatives. Taken by Mr. Wood’s grandfather, these negatives provide unusually clear, crisp views which have been faithfully reproduced in a high quality format. Using these views, along with personal notes and family memories, Mr. Wood presents a rare portrait of station life and training in 1910. This interesting account is only available here and is priced unusually low considering the rare accounts and quality photographs, well worth the retail price. A wonderful addition to your library. (M).  $24.95.

 

      

1255. (stereoview) Ten Pound Island Light Station, Gloucester, Massachusetts c.1870 by Proctor Brothers, Gloucester, Mass. Extremely rare, early view shows the early stone dwelling and light tower as visitors enjoy the rocks below. To help mariners find their way into Gloucester's inner harbor, and to help them avoid a dangerous ledge to the southwest of the island, Congress appropriated funds for a light station on Ten Pound Island in May 1820. A 20-foot conical stone lighthouse tower shown was built, along with a stone dwelling. The light was in service by October 1821. By 1842, the light keeper, Amos Story, complained that the tower and dwelling were both poorly constructed, saying, "The leaks around the windows of the dwelling-house are so bad that we are obliged to set a tub to catch the water whenever it rains hard. The wood work, frames, &c, of the windows, are rotten." A few years after this image was taken, in 1881, a new 30-foot cast-iron lighthouse tower, lined with brick and painted brown, was built along with a new wood frame keeper's house. On the rocks can be seen some visitors, posing for the camera. Clear, close image, only light occasional foxing and very light edge wear, a few spots. Extremely difficult to find early views of this lesser known offshore light station. (VG). $124.

  

12211. Wood, Allan. New England Lighthouses: Famous Shipwrecks, Rescues, & Other Tales. Schiffer. 2012. 160p. Soft wraps. Immerse yourself in New England s maritime history through tales of historic shipwrecks and heroic rescues. From Connecticut to Maine, meet the special individuals who helped those in peril. Learn about the disasters that led to the pioneering of travel safety. As told by the people who witnessed these incredible and often life-changing events, stories tell also of the Flying Santa, miracle baby rescues, and paranormal activity. Amusing accounts from one of the last surviving lighthouse keepers also provide an indelible look at life in and around the lighthouses. With an appendix of lighthouses that can be viewed by boat and a glossary of Mariner terms, this is a great resource for historians, maritime enthusiasts, and a guide for tourists and local residents alike. There s something for everyone in this photographic look at New England s lighthouses. (M). $29.99. 

  

12268. Sammarco, Anthony Michael. Boston's Harbor Islands. Arcadia. 1998. 128p. Soft wraps. 180 vintage photographs. First discovered in 1630, the many harbor islands have come to play an integral part in the history and development of the city. Boston’s Harbor Islands uncovers the fascinating stories of such places as Long Wharf, Castle Island, Minot’s Light, Marine Park, and the Boston Floating Hospital, to name but a few. View the rare photographs of Governor’s Island, and much more. Through a wealth of vintage photographs and descriptive text, the author reveals the history and lore of this historic area. Superb photographs, well worth it for the photos alone. (M). $21.99.

 

1027a,b. Ball, David. To The Point - The Story of Cedar Point. Self published. 1994. 93p. Spiral bound. Nicely done history of Cedar Point in Scituate , with particular emphasis on the history of the lighthouse there,  Coast Guard station, shipwrecks and more. Wonderful accounts of the summer life at this shore community over tha last two centuries. Well done, great reading. Illustrated with vintage photos, maps, documents and more. (VG+). $44.

4521e. (stereoview) Thacher’s Island North Lighthouse, Cape Ann, Mass. c.1900 by C. A. Beckford, Salem, Mass. Close, clear view shows great detail of the tall north light tower connected by a long enclosed walkway to the 1 ½-story keeper’s house. View us unusually clear, clean and close, only very light edge wear. (F-). $128.

10100.  (glass negative) Palmer Island Lighthouse, New Bedford, Mass. c.1900. Large, clear glass plate negative captures nicely the early 1849 Palmer Island lighthouse in New Bedford. Six-acre Palmer's Island is located in the Acushnet River on the west side of the entrance to New Bedford Harbor. The lighthouse on the northern point of Palmer's Island was first lighted on August 30, 1849 by William Sherman, the first keeper. The 24-foot tower was built of rubblestone, with wooden windows and floors. A walkway connected the lighthouse to the higher part of the island. This early light tower remains today. Glass plate negative is unusually large, measuring 8” x 10”. Some deterioration to margins but image clear and close. Would make very good print. (G+). $64.

6634z. Snow, Edward Rowe. THE ISLANDS OF BOSTON HARBOR . Their History and Romance 1626-1935. Andover . July 1936. 2nd. ed. 367p. DJ.  Illustrated with photos and drawings. Second edition of one of Mr. Snow’s first volumes, this title is much sought after by collectors and historians alike. In what became his usual entertaining style, Mr. Snow tells of the countless lighthouses, islands and forts of the area. Facts and unusual stories of the Boston Bay area fill this interesting account of each and every island and ledge in this historic bay. Included are Fort Warren , with its dungeons, its reverberating tunnel under the harbor and its mysterious Lady in Black. Boston Light, a story that begins in 1701 with the suggestion that a lighthouse would be "of great benefit to Mariners coming to these Coasts." Castle island, visited by over 70,000 people in spite of its curse on all who dare. Nix's Mate and Bird Islands , which have long stood for tragedy and terror. And a wealth of other islands and lighthouses with marvelous names, each of which has made its contribution to our history: Governor's Apple and Snake Islands ; Rainsford's, Gallop's and Lovell's; Noddles and Hog; Bumpkin, Grape, Sheep, Slate and Raccoon; and many more. Big and small, here they all are, the islands of Boston Harbor . Expected wear and sunning to dust wrap, contents overall clean, tight, owner’s bookplate. (VG). $94.

  

20333k. Snow, Edward Rowe. BOSTON BAY MYSTERIES AND OTHER TALES. New York .. 1977. 272p. 1st. DJ. Autographed by Mr. Snow, with laid in Christmas photo showing Mr. Snow dressed as Santa and the family posing in the living room. On the back of the photo is a note from wife Anna Myrle noting that “Ed is doing well after his slight stroke….” and other family news. This title is quite scarce - another wonderful collection of 32 stories of the area. Includes the Chesapeake and the Shannon, the Battle of Shirley Gut, Murder on Muddle Brewster Island , Maritime Ben Franklin, the Royal George, the Brig Regulator, Trolly Car Disaster, George Minot’s Favorite Tale, Cape Cod Mysteries, Bunker Hill Powder, Lizzie Bordon, and many more. Clean, crisp, near fine copy. (F-). $54.

5512vv. Snow, Edward Rowe. FAMOUS LIGHTHOUSES OF NEW ENGLAND . Yankee Publishing Co. Boston . 1945. First Edition. 457pp. 64 b/w plates. With laid in map of First Coast Guard District. Stories of building the primary and secondary lighthouses in New England with accounts of the keepers, their family’s and the storms which they weathered. Based on books, records and journals of the keepers. Certainly one of the earlier and most readable books on the subject, Famous Lighthouses of New England was the impetus from which today’s interest and preservation efforts were derived. A wonderful, readable book by this well known story teller. Clean, tight, nice copy. Becoming difficult to find in good condition. (VG-) $34.

4522b. (stereoview) Hospital Point Lighthouse, Beverly c.1870’s. Close, clear view on yellow mount shows great detail of the ornately decorated Hospital Point Lighthouse in Beverly on Boston's North Shore. Beverly was an active port for both trade and fishing and by May of 1872 a temporary light was exhibited at Hospital Point. By the following year, a 45-foot- square brick lighthouse and adjacent two-story keeper's house were complete, exhibiting a rare 3 1/2-order Fresnel lens. The balconies shown in this view were removed about 1890. A nicely detailed view, only very light soiling. Rare view. (VG). $68.

4522c. (stereoview) Hospital Point Lighthouse, Beverly c.1870’s by John B. Hill, Beverly, Mass.  Close, clear view on large 4” yellow mount shows great detail of the ornately decorated Hospital Point Lighthouse in Beverly on Boston's North Shore. Beverly was an active port for both trade and fishing and by May of 1872 a temporary light was exhibited at Hospital Point. By the following year, a 45-foot- square brick lighthouse and adjacent two-story keeper's house were complete, exhibiting a rare 3 1/2-order Fresnel lens. The balconies shown in this view were removed about 1890. A nicely detailed view, with light-moderate foxing. With photographer’s listing on published views on back. Rare view. (VG). $58.

29146b. (mounted photo) Eastern Point Lighthouse at Gloucester, Massachusetts c.1900. Superb silver print of the Eastern Point Lighthouse at Gloucester, Massachusetts. The East Point Lighthouse has a long history with the first stone lighthouse being erected in 1832, a second larger version built in 1848 and the final structure as known today in 1890.  Based on the structures shown in this photo it is estimated the photograph was made about 1900 or possibly earlier placing it within the time period that lighthouse keeper George E. Bailey (1892-1926) maintained the facility.  There is a great view of a line of schooners passing the point behind the light station. Unusually large image measures 7 ½” x 9 ½” on original 11” x 14” mount. Mount has been punched for inclusion in an album. Beautiful clean, clear image, just a hint of foxing and light edge wear to mount. (VG+) $128.

2996. (hand colored photograph) Eastern Point Light Station, Gloucester, Mass. c.1940-1950’s. Beautiful hand colored photograph taken from the drive of the often painted Eastern Point Light Station. Great view includes the keeper’s dwellings, light tower, fog signal building, radio towers and more. Coloring is superb, mounted on original board, perfect for framing. Photo size is 8” x 10”. (VG+). $74.

2995. (mounted photo) Eastern Point Lighthouse at Gloucester, Massachusetts c.1900. Published by Procter Brothers, Gloucester. c.1900. Excellent view of the Eastern Point Lighthouse at Gloucester, Massachusetts.  Also prominent is the “Mother Ann” rock formation to the left of the image.  The East Point Lighthouse has a long history with the first stone lighthouse being erected in 1832, a second larger version built in 1848 and the final structure as known today in 1890.  Based on the structures shown in this photo it is estimated the photograph was made about 1900 or possibly earlier placing it within the time period that lighthouse keeper George E. Bailey (1892-1926) maintained the facility.  There is a great double line of cloths hanging in front of the building giving it a very ‘lived in’ feel. Procter Brothers, Francis and George, were the sons of a sea captain and natives of Gloucester.  Francis opened the Old Corner Book Store in 1850 in Gloucester.  In 1855 he partnered with George to do business as Procter Brothers publishing newspapers, pamphlets, books, photographs, postcards and stationary.  Both brothers were active members of the community and in 1903 they incorporated as Procter Brothers Company continuing on in the field of publishing.  The label on the verso of this photograph reads, “From Procter Brothers, ‘Old Corner’ Book and Stationery Store, 108 Main St., …Gloucester, Mass.  Eastern Point Light.”   The 108 Main Street address shows up from around 1882 through about 1909 in city directories. Image measures 4 ¾” x 6 ¾” on original 10” x 12” mount. Beautiful clean, clear image, just a hint of foxing, light edge wear to mount. (VG) $148.

 

2054. [paperweight] Heavy glass paperweight featuring an early c.1890 photograph of "Life-Saving Station, Salisbury Beach, Mass." This rare item features a nice detailed sepia photo image of the Keeper and crew posed on the boat-ramp with their beach apparatus cart and surfboat. The crew is poised with the pull ropes over their shoulder while their pet dog sits faithfully at their feet. Quite rare early Life-Saving Service image and collectible, clear, crisp. Paperweight measures 4" x 2 ¾" x 1"h. (VG+). $168 net.

10354.  (glass negative) Plum Island Lighthouse, Newburyport, Mass. c.1900. Clear glass plate negative captures nicely the replacement 1898 Plum Island light tower in the background as a group of finely dressed Victorian visitors pose on the sand. Plum Island, a nine-mile long barrier island off the northern coast of Massachusetts. During its nineteenth-century heyday as a resort, steamships and a trolley line serviced Plum Island. The present Plum Island Lighthouse was first lighted on September 20, 1898, probably the third or fourth lighthouse on this site. This photo was likely taken shortly after the station was rebuilt, with a new light tower. Large image measures 5” x 7” and is clear and close. Would provide a clear image. (VG). $42.

N. L. Stebbins was a Boston , Massachusetts , commercial photographer during the last decade of the 19th Century and the first few decades of the 20th. During this time he took thousands of superb fine views of yachts, lightships, U.S. Navy ships, lighthouses, coastal scenes and more. Among the more noteworthy pioneer American marine and yachting photographers were men like N. L. Stebbins, also David Mason Little, Henry G. Peabody and others. These noted photographers ranged the New England coast from New York to Massachusetts capturing on glass-plate negatives the great yachts and other coastal scenes and events of the last quarter of the nineteenth century. During their career they shot thousands of views, a great many of which appeared periodically in numerous yachting publications. Stebbins, himself, during the period 1891 through 1910 published his illustrated coast pilots which still today endure as a prime reference work.

These original albumen prints are by Stebbins and are blindstamped “N.L. Stebbins Photo, Boston , Mass. ” or are attributed to him. Perfect for framing.

27294. Steamship South Shore, Nantasket beach Steamship Company. #17073, blind stamped N. L. Stebbins, Boston, Mass.  $325.

 

27293. Steamship Bay State #5510, blind stamped N. L. Stebbins, Boston, Mass. $295

  

7153L. (commemorative plate) c.1900. Superb bright white souvenir plate, featuring a close and detailed image of “Old Scituate Light, Scituate , Mass. Plate features a large, detailed b/w image of the old abandoned light attached to the Keeper’s dwelling in the center, surrounded by a decorative rim enhanced by gilt borders. Labeled “Scituate Light, Home of Rebecca and Abigail Bates Heroines of the War of 1812.” Back marked “Made in Germany for Chas. W. Frye, Scituate , MA .” This large collectible measures 7 5/8” in diameter and would enhance any display. Unusually bright, clean, a beautiful piece. (F). $178 net.

 23532. (souvenir plate) “Historical House, Ipswich , Mass. c.1900. Large 6” commemorative plate features a large b/w image of an unknown historical house (probably the Saltonstall House which was built in 1635). The large 3” detailed image has  excellent detail and on the bright white china with gilded colored border make a good contrast on this rare item. Marked “Made in Germany (for) A. H. Plouff, Ipswich , Mass. ”. Quite clean, bright, a beautiful and distinctive display piece. Clean, only light  wear. Does have some closed age cracks but these are almost indistinguishable. (G+). $24 net.

Lighthouse & Lightship Trade Cards

Beautiful multi colored trade cards c. 1880’s showing a very nice, close, multi colored images of lighthouses, light-vessels or buoys. These fantastic cards were issued by the Duke Tobacco Co. as an insert premium in their brands of HONEST LONG CUT  and G. W. GAIL & AX’S Tobacco and Cigarettes during 1889. These cards are from a fairly rare series of 25 cards entitled , " LIGHTHOUSES", and are designated as N119 in Burdick’s American Card Catalogue. The front of each card features a colorful die cut image of a particular lighthouse, light-vessel or buoy, while the back features advertising for Duke Tobacco. The lithography for the cards is exceptional, full of vibrant color and detail and was done by the Giles Co of New York . Labeled “Smoke and Chew Honest Long Cut Tobacco” or G. W. Gail & Ax’s Navy on the obverse. Trade cards were used as are our present day advertising or business cards. Nice images, die cut to shape of lighthouse, vessel or buoy. Each approx. 4”w x 2½”h. A very pretty set to collect and display. Extremely difficult to find and a most valuable collector’s item.

  

#605 

ww. Sandy Hook Lightship. (VG+). $78.

p. Sandy Hook Lightship. (Fine). $78.

c. Bartlett Reef Lightship. (VG-). $68.

eee. Vineyard Sound Lightship. (VG-). $68.

ii. Minot’s Ledge Lighthouse. (VG). $58.

mm. Stratford Shoal Lighthouse. Two folds to base. (VG). $38.

LL. Sanibel Island Lighthouse, Florida . (Fine). $68.

c3. Bell Buoy. (VG+). $54.

nn. Bell Buoy. One fold. (G). $34.  

  22297e. [ Massachusetts Humane Society] THE LATE DISASTROUS STORM ON THE MASSACHUSETTS COAST – SCENES AND INCIDENTS. Frank Leslie’s Illustrated Newspaper. December 8, 1888 . 1 page 10 ½´x 16” . Beautiful, bright, hand colored, this is certainly one of the best views that I have yet found and one of only a few depicting the men and equipment o f the Massachusetts Humane Society. Large full page illustration includes the Humane Society surfboat and beach apparatus cart in front of the boathouse at Marblehead , Mass. A sign above the boathouse door reads “Massachusetts Humane Society”. Additional illustrations include the Hunt gun and projectile, a vessel ashore on Nantasket Beach , and a view of the last remaining survivor of the Higginson preparing to leap from the rigging. Additional large illustrations include bodies ashore at Scituate after the disastrous 1888 storm, a similar scene of the destruction near the Highland Station on the New Jersey coast. Includes a ¼ - page article describing the ferocious “Portland Gale” and the havoc wrought.  Extremely difficult to find and would be superb matted and framed. Beautiful coloring and wonderful for display. Clean, crisp, only light age toning to margins. (VG+) $84.

V-01. [print] Large 17 ½” x 21 ½” b/w print taken from original lithograph of Minot’s Ledge Light House, Massachusetts Bay near Cohasset c.1860. Taken from the original, this superb rendition is perfect for framing. Detailed views include full elevation and sectional view of entire light tower, with sectional plan views through various elevations. Legend includes numerous statistics on the tower construction and dimensions. Printed on a beautiful buff woven stock, this would look wonderful framed for a display or wall decoration. (M).  $15.95 each.  

21403c. [Massachusetts Humane Society] THE LIFE-SAVING SERVICE ON THE MASSACHUSETTS COAST – THE NIGHT ALARM: RUNNING OUT THE LIFEBOAT. Frank Leslie’s Illustrated Newspaper. February 16, 1889. This is certainly one of the best views that I have yet found and one of only a few depicting the men and equipment o f the Massachusetts Humane Society. I will let the image speak for itself, save to note that the engraved sign above the boathouse door reads "Massachusetts Humane Society" as does the bow of their surfboat. Extremely difficult to find and would be superb matted and framed. Clean, crisp, with one light original fold. A perfect companion to the December 8, 1888 issue THE LATE DISASTROUS STORM ON THE MASSACHUSETTS COAST – SCENES AND INCIDENTS . (VG+). $144 net.

  

Marblehead Light-House , Mass. April 29, 1841.

Rare letter regarding replacement of the Light Keeper.:

[document – office copy – written in hand. 8” x 9 ¾”. 1 page.].

“[to] Hon. F. W. Choate, April 29, 1841

Sir: Your letter of the 21st inst. Recommending Capt Jw S Worcester as Keeper of the Marblehead Light House says nothing about the present keeper’s official conduct; and as nothing has yet been presented me to justify his removal, I will be thankful to you for information upon this point. The only papers upon file in reference to this Light House are in favor of retaining the present Keeper, Mr Darling, and amongst them a petition with 531 signatures. To justify removal, the incumbent must be unfit for the office – a man of bad character or bad habits – or appointed under circumstances in themselves vicious or improper – (as for example: upon the resignation of an objectionable incumbent after the result of an election was known) or have been guilty of misconduct in office. Misconduct of any kind – such as interference in elections – may be satisfactorily shown by the statement of respectable men (in writing) that such a general and public interference was a matter of public notoriety, or by their statement of special cause of interference. Until such evidence is forwarded to the Department, there can be no action in the case.  Very respectfully, Your Obt Servent, [signed] T [Thomas] Ewing. [Secy of the Treasury].”

Signature: Thomas Ewing, Sr. (December 28, 1789– October 26, 1871) was a National Republican and Whig politician from Ohio. He served in the U.S. Senate as well as serving as the Secretary of the Treasury (1841 under Presidents William Henry Harrison and John Tyler) and the first Secretary of the Interior.

Keeper Ezekiel Darling (1835-1860): Apparently Mr. Choate was unsuccessful in having Keeper Darling removed, for he would serve in that capacity until 1860. The first lighthouse at Marblehead, a 23-foot white tower and a keeper's cottage attached to the tower by a covered walkway, were built near a small fort on Marblehead Neck in 1835. The first keeper-at $400 yearly‚was Ezekiel Darling, a native of Duxbury, Massachusetts, and former chief gunner on the U.S.S. Constitution. He had first gone to sea at the age of eight or nine, and he was wounded in the War of 1812. It was reported that Darling did not receive a pension because he was considered "disfigured”, but not disabled. Darling was in charge when the engineer I. W. P. Lewis examined the station. The keeper provided a statement for Lewis's report to Congress in 1843: "The tower is leaky about the window casing, there being no recess in the brick for the window frames. The lantern sweats considerably, and formerly I wiped up large quantities of water accumulating from this cause. I now admit as much air as the state of the weather will permit, which in some degree remedies this evil. The dwelling-house is very damp, and the water comes through the walls. The chimneys are all smoky." Lewis praised Darling in his report. "Perfect order, cleanliness, and apparent comfort," he wrote, "reign throughout the whole establishment, much to the credit of the keeper." By 1860, Keeper Darling was about 70 and almost blind, and soon retired after 25 years as keeper. Jane C. Martin, a Marblehead native, replaced Keeper Darling. She was said to be the only woman lighthouse keeper on the East Coast at the time she was appointed. #715. $225.

  

4255L. Stebbins, N. L., THE ILLUSTRATED COAST PILOT WITH SAILING DIRECTIONS. THE ATLANTIC AND GULF COASTS OF THE UNITED STATES INCLUDING BAYS AND HARBORS. New York. 1902. 225p. Extremely difficult to find. Illustrated with over 320 superb recognition photographic views of lighthouses and light vessels along the coast during the period. Includes sailing directions and description of lights along the coast, identifies approaches, lights, ledges and other coastal features. Much use is made of Stebbins’s photographs, and this work presents an excellent view of the entire east coast from Maine to Texas, as it appeared at the turn of the century. Cloth covers with unusually little wear save some expected staining, front hinge worn, two frontis advertising pages present but loose,  contents overall clean and tight. Well worth it for the lighthouse and light vessel views alone. (VG-). $135.

  

2818. (photo lot) Baker’s Island Light Station, Salem, Massachusetts c.1920. Nice lot of 23 snapshots and mounted photos are of the Baker’s Island area including the light station, keeper and more. Included in the lot are two images (3 ½” x 4 ½”) of the entire light station, one taken during the day and one at night with the lights lit. A third image is a close view of the1st Assistant Keeper posing. The original lights on Baker’s Island went into service on January 3, 1798. The two towers were located on top of a two-story keeper's house, about 40 feet apart at either end of the building. In 1816, one of Baker's Island's twin lights was extinguished and the smaller one was rebuilt, with the new stone tower being three feet shorter than the original lower light. Mariners claimed this made it difficult to distinguish the light from Boston Light, a fact that was proven by an increased number of wrecks. In 1820, the two lights were restored. A new 47-foot tower was built alongside the shorter 1816 tower. Additional photos include area cottages, sailboat in the bay, pleasure yacht, and various individuals. Nice lot, all clear, clean, various formats. (VG). $168. 

     

27454. (photo album) Plum Island and Newburyport , Massachusetts c.1890’s. Vintage 1890s Newburyport , Massachusetts photograph album. This great little album measures 7 ½” by 5 ½” inches and contains 44 photos, many well done. Included is a lovely close photo of the white octagonal Plum Island Lighthouse. In 1838 the original twin octagonal lighthouses on this spot were replaced by a new pair of octagonal towers built on moveable foundations. In 1856 one of the lighthouses was destroyed by fire and it was decided not to rebuild. The surviving lighthouse received a fourth order Fresnel lens and remains today. In addition, a second photo provides a close view of the Bibb #2 Type station on Plum Island at the Merrimack Ri ver . Other images include beach scenes, a nice view of salt marsh hay stacks, a beach cottage labeled "Hardy's, river scene with early ship (may be in the Merrimack River), New England church, colonial homes, family scenes, etc. Sizes vary, the average being about 4 x 3 ½” inches. About a dozen or so photos show fading or lightness from exposure problems, others are clear and sharp. (VG-). $168.

27331a. (cabinet photo) Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department Firefighter c.1880. Superb clear, close portrait photograph of young mustachioed firefighter of the Worcester Fire Department. Taken by Critcherson Photographer, 326 Main Street, Worcester, Mass. Photo is clean and clear, a fine early view. (VG+). $54

27331b. (cabinet photo) Worcester, Massachusetts Fire Department Firefighter c.1880. Superb clear, close portrait photograph of a mature  mustachioed firefighter of the Worcester Fire Department. Taken by Davis Photographer, Main & Park Streets, Worcester, Mass. Photo is clean and clear, a fine early view. (F-). $64

Other similar firefighter view available for Waltham. 

28434. (stereoview) Eastern Point Lighthouse, Cape Ann, Massachusetts c.1870. Rare early view shows the earlier fog signal tower, and nearby the lighthouse tower and long walkway attached to the small keeper’s house. Early view, clear and quite clean. (VG). $34.

    

2885. (photo) Pilot Boat, "Columbia" , wrecked Nov. 17, 1898, Scituate, Mass. 3 ½” x 3 ½” b/w. (VG-). $22.

CP-01. (print) Historic Lighthouses Cape Cod. The Historic Lighthouse series of prints uses rare photos from the 1800’s showing American Lighthouses in their turn-of-the-century splendor. Using sophisticated twentieth century computer enhancement, these specialized prints are produced on quality 80lb. bright white paper stock. Each print shows beautiful clear 1800’s views from original period photographs. These prints measure 18" wide by 24" high and, because of the fine quality, these make wonderful candidates for framing and decorating. Watch also for future prints featuring vintage photographs and architectural plans of other locations. (Actual size 18"w x 24"h, shipped rolled.). Historic Lighthouses - Cape Cod. Retail priced at $19.95. Dealer and wholesale pricing available. Similar postcards also available at wholesale prices.

2685. (glass mounted slide set, Massachusetts & East Coast) Set of 98 early large format 2 ¾” x 2 ¾” glass mounted projection slides in metal mounts, complete with fine Brumberger metal storage case. Case is filled with 98 large glass slides from 1951. Subjects include Nantucket Island including Sankaty LH, Brant Point, Main Street, windmill, harbor scenes, Nauset LH, Chatham LH, Truro, Provincetown, Hartford Ct,  Ocean City Md., family views, Boston views and more. (VG). $36.

21134b. LAUNCHING OF THE LIFE-BOAT. Harper’s Weekly. April 19, 1902. Wonderful full page b/w artist’s rendition shows surfmen of the Life-Saving Service working to push their surfboat carriage across the soft sand of Cape Cod’s outer beach toward a wreck in the background. Illustration was published to commemorate the Life-Saving Service Monomoy disaster off Cape Cod, Massachusetts just a few weeks prior, where all but one of the boat’s crew was lost in an attempt to save others in distress. The caption notes that "…over forty thousand dollars had already been raised for the families of the brave men, which shows the appreciation the people have for the brave men…." (VG+). $58 net.

8481. [4 woodcut engravings] HIGHLAND LIGHT, TRURO, MASS., RACE POINT LIGHT, WINDMILL NEAR HIGHLAND LIGHT, TRURO BEACH. Approx. 4" x 5" each. From Ballou’s Pictorial Drawing Room Companion. c.1970’s. Beautiful, clear hand colored, detailed engraving with wonderful early details of Highland (Cape Cod) Light Station and Race Point Light Station, along with two additional Cape Cod Truro views. In addition to the tower and dwelling, engraving includes surrounding buildings with cattle grazing, tourists and more. Beautiful views of the early towers on these sites, a colorful item for framing. Scarce early engraving, one of the cleanest I’ve had. (VG). $42.

9314. SUMMER LIFE AT NANTUCKET. Frank Leslie’s Illustrated Newspaper. September 13, 1879. Full two pages, with six large detailed engravings detail the life and work on the island of Nantucket. Wonderful engravings include Sancota [Sankaty] Head Lighthouse… off Siasconset, View of Nantucket [Brant Point Lighthouse] from the Bell Beacon, Oldest House, Soldier’s Monument, Cleaning Up, and a large full-page illustration of Driving the Blackfish Ashore. A wonderful set of engravings, particularly nice for framing. Full issue with nice illustration, and with numerous articles of the day. (VG-). $48.

4548c. [cabinet photo] Cape Cod [Highland] Lighthouse, Truro, Massachusetts. c.1888 by I. L. Rosenthal, Provincetown. Large, early cabinet style photograph measures 4 ½" x 7" and provides an extremely rare view of the tall masonry lighthouse and keeper’s dwellings high on the clay pounds at Truro on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. This is a striking early view and shows good detail of the tall white light tower flanked by two keeper’s dwellings, fog signal building and more atop the high clay pounds. The photo, taken from the cliff’s edge, is large and quite clear and crisp, with little or no foxing and only light soiling. There is a 1" scratch to the image on the cliff but this does not seriously detract. This is an exceptionally rare lighthouse view and would be quite nice matted and framed. (VG). $56 net.

 22448. [photograph] Italian freighter Etrusco aground near Scituate lighthouse. In a blizzard on March 16, 1956, the 441-foot Italian freighter Etrusco ran aground near the lighthouse at Scituate, Mass. The Coast Guard used breeches buoy to bring ashore the 30-man crew, one of the last times that the breeches buoy would be used in a rescue. The ship remained at Cedar Point until the following December, when it was floated off at high tide after much of the rock around it was blasted away. Many thousands of people would visit Scituate Light that year to see the enormous wreck and watch the removal efforts. Photo is an original sepia print, 8" x 10" and provides an extremely clear, close view of the entire vessel taken from the beach off the starboard bow. As waves crash against the port side crewmen can be seen on the bridge and on the stone breakwater. (F-). $26.

4446e. [stereoview] Highland Lighthouse, Cape Cod. (c.1870’s). By G. H. Nickerson, Provincetown. Rare view of the tall white stone light tower and 1 ½-story keeper’s dwellings, out buildings and fence. Located on a high bluff, cape Cod or Highland Light was a focal point for Victorian visitors and parked in front can be seen a large buggy packed with visitors. This extremely rare view shows good detail of the tower and dwelling though somewhat distant. View is clean but with moderate foxing. View was folded at center line but does not affect images. (G-). $24.

 21158. [Limited edition print] First Light [NANTUCKET LIGHTSHIP] by Art Pressman. Fine limited edition color print was created from an original watercolor painting by Nantucket artist Art Pressman. The large print is signed and numbered of 500 copies by the artist and is printed on heavy card stock ready for framing. The print depicts the Nantucket Light Vessel No. 112 on station, where its mournful fog horn and light marked the treacherous Nantucket Shoals. This bright colorful print measures 19" x 24" including a 2 ½" border and shows a detailed view of the port side of the vessel. Mr. Pressman has been painting maritime subjects since the early 1970’s, with his work appearing in museums across the country. This would be a beautiful addition for the lighthouse and lightship enthusiast. Shipped rolled. Numbers available: Artist Proof #18/40 @ $78.

 9367. [stereo view] Sankaty Head Lighthouse, Nantucket. (c.1870’s). By J. Freeman, Nantucket. Rare view of the 1850 red and white brick light tower and 1 ½-story keeper’s dwelling and barn. Located on a high bluff on the east coast of the island, the light tower was 60 feet high and contained a second order Fresnel lens. This extremely rare view shows the tower and dwelling, with the keepers on the lantern walkway and a woman at the house below. Also fisible is the Fresnel lens within the lantern above. View is extremely clean and crisp, one of the nicest that I have had of this light. (VG+). $64.

5180b. [stereo view] Gay Head Light. Somewhat distant view of the tall brick lighthouse tower and double keeper’s dwelling, up on the tall and cliffs. Light foxing, and a bit underexposed. A good inexpensive view. (G) $18

  

4116b. [stereo view] Eastern Point Light and Fog Bell, Cape Ann, MA. (c. 1860-70) by Proctor Brothers, Gloucester, MA. Beautiful early view showing old (1832) tower, walkway, and bell tower. Clear, close image. A very nice view. (VG) $56.

4116f. [stereo view] [shown] Eastern Point Light and Fog Bell, Cape Ann, MA. (c. 1860-70) by Hervey Friend, Gloucester, MA. Beautiful early view showing old (1832) tower, walkway, and bell tower. Clear, close image, slight fold one corner of mount only. A nice view. (G+) .

5180. [stereo view] [shown] Gay Head Light. Clear, relatively close view of light and dwelling, with man on walkway looking through telescope. Moderate foxing and soiling. (FR) .

5299. [stereo view] Annisquam Light, Cape Ann. MA. (c. 1870) by E. G. Rollins. Nice early view shows the 1801 tower and walkway before they were re-built in 1897. Very slight stain, overall G+. $52.

6284. Eastern Point Light and Fog Bell, Cape Ann, MA. (c. 1860-70) by Cook & Friend, Gloucester, MA. Beautiful, unusually clean, early view showing old (1832) tower, walkway, and bell tower. Clear, close image, one of the nicest.. (VG) $62.

305. Eastern Point Light, Cape Ann, MA. (c. 1860-70) by G. K. Proctor, Salem, MA. Nice early view showing old (1832) tower, walkway, bell tower and dwelling. Slightly distant but nice, clear image. (VG) $56.

724. [photo] Eastern Point Light, Cape Ann. Artistic and clear 4" x 6" view of light station with fog bell tower. Clear, nice detail, on mat. A nice crisp view for framing. (VG). $10.

4116d. Eastern Point Light and Fog Bell, Cape Ann, MA. (c. 1860-70) by Charles A. Beckford, Salem, MA. Beautiful early view showing old (1832) tower, walkway, and bell tower. Clear, close image, slight soil spot, few small ink spots but still a nice view. (G) $38.

 

557a, 3166. Giambarba, Paul. SURFMEN AND LIFESAVERS. Centerville . 1967. 1st. 123p. DJ. Written for young people, this illustrated volume presents a history of the operations and heroes of the Massachusetts Humane Society and the U. S. Life-Saving Service from its inception on into the Coast Guard years. Profusely illustrated with detailed diagrams and illustrations by the author. (VG). 18.

1197. Bergan, William M. Old Nantasket. Hull. 1968. 1991 reprint. 154p. Soft wraps. Dr. William M. Bergan's classic book provided a unique glimpse into the history of Hull, Mass. and brings to life the people and places that made the Town of Hull and Nantasket Beach famous in the early 20th century. "Old Nantasket" allows readers to experience the grandeur of the huge hotels, the majesty of Paragon Park and the luxury of the side-paddle steamboats that shuttled visitors to and from Boston. Life in "Old Nantasket" had its share of corruption, con men and shady politics, and Doc Bergan doesn't shy away from describing those aspects in detail. A former Hull selectman, he provides fascinating insights into the inner workings of the local government, including the rise and fall of the political machine known as the "Old Ring." (F-). $8.

3164i,s. Kobbe', Gustav. "LIFE ON THE ( Nantucket ) SOUTH SHOAL LIGHT-SHIP". 11pp. Century Magazine, Vol. XLII. August 1891. This often quoted article is one of the very few ever written describing the life on these early light vessels, based on the author’s visit in 1891. One “old whaling captain told me that the loneliest thing he had ever seen at sea was a polar bear floating on a piece of ice in the Arctic Ocean; the next loneliest object to that had been the South Shoal Lightship….and it pitched and rolled such that even an old whaleman… felt ‘squamish’.” Excellent descriptions of the crews and the life on board. Includes nine very nice engravings. Disbound, without wraps. Clean, crisp.     $26. 

20533b. Parsons, Eleanor C., THATCHERS – Island of the Twin Lights. Canaan. 1985.  149p. Soft wraps. A comprehensive and enjoyable text relates the authentic history of a most interesting island off Caoe Ann , Massachusetts . Thatchers island and the twin lighthouses there have long been a landmark for anyone who has visited the area. Here, Eleanor Parsons tells the story of the island’s history from 1635, sharing the many events that took place there. Included, of course, is the story of how the two famous light towers were constructed, rebuile, repaired; the frequent bureaucratic bungling which threatened the lights; and the devotion of the keepers and their families who kept the beacons burning in spite of storms, danger and discouragement. A wonderful and interesting account. (VG+). $24.

L-181. Schallehn, Bernie  and John J. Galluzzo. SANTA OF THE LIGHTHOUSES. Burnaby . 2002. 180 p. Soft wraps. Signed by the author. Even as a youth, Edward Rowe Snow grabbed hold of life with both hands. After graduating from Harvard, he throws himself into a career as a history teacher, taking every opportunity to coax history to life for his students and acquaintances on Boston 's richly historical coast. Over time, he was intrigued by the history of the local lighthouses, and became acquainted with the lighthouse keepers and their families and wrote of their amazing stories. It isn't by chance that he met a student, Bill Wincapaw, whose father, Captain Wincapaw gave Ed the chance of a lifetime, the chance to make history himself. The captain invited Ed to ride along while they drop Christmas packages from a plane--to the excited lighthouse keepers and their families below. Though Ed, Anna Myrle and the lighthouse keepers are gone now, the legacy of The Flying Santa lives on to this day, bringing hope when it's needed most. Written for young adults, this is the story of Edward Rowe Snow and his family’s marvelous work. (VG+). $12.

 

 

  

5461. Lombard, Asa Cobb Paine. EAST OF CAPE COD . Cuttyhunk. 1976. 157 pp. The author tells the stories of ships and shipwrecks and particularly of the Life-Savers of this dangerous area. The author incorporated into this account numerous photographs and records of his grandfather, United States Life-Saving Service Warrant Officer  [1885-1921] Edward Everett Lombard who was stationed at the Cahoon’s Hollow station.  Extremely well illustrated with over 80 wonderful early photographs, one of the better accounts of the Life-Saving Service. The glass slides from which the pictures are reproduced were made from 1885 to 1900. Lombard, along with his Cahoon’s Hollow companion, Eugene Young, gave lectures at the time in the eastern part of  Massachusetts describing the wrecks that occurred on Cape Cod from Monomoy to  Provincetown , explaining how rescue attempts were made, and the operations of the United States Life Saving Service. The proceeds from the lectures were used to buy Station personnel the necessary extras needed to perform their duties — equipment not provided by the government. Chapters include the Wreck of the Jason, History of the Life-Saving Service, the Lifesaver’s Tools, Lifeboat Drill, Communications, Smuggler, Restoring the Apparently Drowned, Shipwrecks, the Way of the Wreckers, and more. Becoming scarce, this has always been one of the two best on  Cape Cod ’s life-savers but so far has not received proper recognition. Clean, tight, light sunning to wraps. (VG+).  $48 net.

W-06. Ryder, Richard G. OLD HARBOR STATION CAPE COD . Norwich . 1990. 1st. 128 p. Soft wraps. Extremely rare and worthwhile account of the life-savers at the Old Harbor Life Saving Station in Chatham , Mass. This detailed work is a one of a kind, chronicling not only much of the wrecks and work of the life savers, but particularly looking at each and every item and piece of equipment issued to such a station at the time. Includes a complete listing of inventory items with description and many photographs, wreck accounts, life at the station in 1904, moving the station and much more. A most important and interesting chronicle, quite valuable for museums of if restoring a station and very difficult to find. (F-). $54.    

2806. Cavallaro, Lenny and Lou Cook, Bob Jannoni. SOLVED: The Mystery of the General Arnold. Carver. 2007. 112 p. Soft wraps. In 1778, the brigantine General Arnold went aground on the White Flat off Plymouth, Massachusetts. More than 70 men froze to death in one of the most horrible naval disasters of the Revolutionary War. Almost two centuries later, the skeletal remains emerged from the waters. Was this the Arnold? The debate lasted for many years. Finally, in this work, the authors solve this mystery and relate the tale of this stricken vessel. (M). $8.95.

 6744 [Topographic Maps]. U.S. Geological Survey. 1940 – 1953 edition. Massachusetts Coastline. Sizes from 16 ½” x 21” to 22” x 27”. The scale of the maps are 1:31,680 to 1:24,000, with contour lines at 10-foot intervals. Beautiful, early, three color topographic maps show the important contours and features of the area including the Lighthouses and Life-Saving Stations, Lightships and more, as well as roads and important town buildings, etc. Also includes all roads, railway lines, shoals and bars, and much more. Maps are quite desirable for framing and are overall clean. Include stamp on field of “Library Dept of Geology”. Would be wonderful framed to show the area in great detail. These early coastal maps are most desirable for display and bring a premium, particularly on the Cape and the islands. (VG).

qq-6. Sagamore Quadrangle. Includes most of Plymouth, Cape Cod Canal, part of Bourne, Sandwich, Cape Cod Bay. 1951. 22” x 27”. $24.

qq-9. Hyannis Quadrangle. Includes most of Barnstable of Centerville, Yarmouth, part of Sandy Neck, Barnstable Harbor, Hyannis Barbor, Nantucket Sound, Cape Cod Bay. 1950. 22” x 27”. $24.

qq-12. Plymouth Quadrangle. Includes most of Plymouth, part of Kingston, Plymouth Bay, Saquish Head. 1950. 22” x 27”. $24.

6744r,v,gg. [Topographic Plate]. COAST LINES: PART OF MARTHA'S VINEYARD MASS. US Geological Survey. c.1908. Size 10”h x 16”. Double page plate from early report. Beautiful, early, three color topographic map shows the important contours and features of the area including the Lighthouses and Life-Saving Stations, as well as roads, harbor and important features. This map includes most of the island, from Chilmark Pond and Lamberts Cove east to Oak Bluffs to the northeast and Cape Pogue to the east.  Lighthouses include Cape Pogue Light and  Edgartown Light. Also includes harbors, shoals and bars, and much more. Plate is quite desirable for framing. Unusually clean and crisp, a beautiful piece. These early coastal maps are most desirable for display and bring a premium, particularly on the Cape and the islands. (F).   $118 net.

6744s,ii. [Topographic Plate]. COAST LINES: PARTS OF PROVINCETOWN AND WELLFLEET MASS. US Geological Survey. c.1908. Size 10”h x 16”. Double page plate from early report. Beautiful, early, three color topographic map shows the important contours and features of the area including the Lighthouses and Life-Saving Stations, as well as roads, harbor and important features. This map includes all of the outer Cape from Provincetown to Bound Brook Island and Gull Pond in Wellfleet. U. S. Life-Saving Stations include Race Point, Peaked Hill Bar, High Head, Highland and Pamet River . Lighthouses include Long Point, Wood End, Race Point, and Highland Light. Also includes harbors, shoals and bars, and much more. Plate is quite desirable for framing. Unusually clean and crisp, a beautiful piece. These early coastal maps are most desirable for display and bring a premium, particularly on the Cape and the islands. (F).  $88 net.

Additional areas and locations available in same 1908 series including: Boothbay, Maine, Deer Isle, Maine, Morro Bay, Ca., Great South Bay, NY., Atlantic City, NJ., Sandy Hook, NJ., Presque Isle Bay, PA., San Francisco Bay, Ca., Bolinas Bay, Ca., Sodus Bay, NY., Cape Blanco, Or., Oceanside, Ca., Chesapeake Bay, Md., Buzzards Bay, Ma., Niagara Falls, NY., East Delta, La., Williamston, NC., St. Louis, Mo., Yosemite Valley, Ca., Yellowstone Canyon, and more. Pricing $44 - $78 each. 

 

6744r,v,gg. [Topographic Plate]. COAST LINES: PART OF MARTHA'S VINEYARD MASS. US Geological Survey. c.1908. Size 10”h x 16”. Double page plate from early report. Beautiful, early, three color topographic map shows the important contours and features of the area including the Lighthouses and Life-Saving Stations, as well as roads, harbor and important features. This map includes most of the island, from Chilmark Pond and Lamberts Cove east to Oak Bluffs to the northeast and Cape Pogue to the east.  Lighthouses include Cape Pogue Light and  Edgartown Light. Also includes harbors, shoals and bars, and much more. Plate is quite desirable for framing. Unusually clean and crisp, a beautiful piece. These early coastal maps are most desirable for display and bring a premium, particularly on the Cape and the islands. (F).   $118 net.  

6744a,k. [Topographic Map]. CAPE COD FROM PROVINCETOWN TO EASTHAM INCLUDING TRURO, WELLFLEET AND EASTHAM. Walker Lithographers & Publishers, Boston. c.1900. Size 20"h x 28 ½".From early Atlas of Massachusetts. Beautiful, early, three color topographic maps show the important contours and features of the area including the Lighthouses and Life-Saving Stations, light vessels, as well as roads and important town buildings, etc. This map includes the complete towns of Provincetown, Truro, Wellfleet and MUCH OF Eastham. U. S. Life-Saving Stations include Race Point, Peaked Hill Bar, High Head, Highland, Pamet River, Cahoon Hollow and Nauset. Lighthouses include Long Point, Wood End, Race Point, Highland, Nauset Beach Lights, Mayo’s Beach Light and Billingsgate. Also includes Marconi Wireless Station, all roads, railway lines, shoals and bars, and much more. Map is quite desirable for framing and is new old stock. Unusually clean and crisp save, never used. These early coastal maps are most desirable for display and bring a premium, particularly on the Cape and the islands. (VG+). $118 net.

6744p,i. [Topographic Map]. CAPE COD FROM TRURO TO BREWSTER INCLUDING ORLEANS, EASTHAM AND WELLFLEET. U.S. Geological Survey. September 1893 edition, reprinted 1923, from surveys done in 1887. Size 16 ½"w x 20"h. The scale of the map is 1:62,500, with contour lines at 20-foot intervals. Beautiful, early, three color topographic maps show the important contours and features of the area including the Lighthouses and Life-Saving Stations, as well as roads and important town buildings, etc. This map includes the complete towns of Orleans, Wellfleet, Eastham, part of Brewster and Truro. U. S. Life-Saving Stations include Pamet River, Cahoon’s Hollow, Nauset, and Orleans. Lighthouses include Billingsgate, Mayo’s Beach, Nauset Beach Beacons. Also includes all roads, railway lines, shoals and bars, and much more. Map is quite desirable for framing and is clean and crisp as original. Unusually clean and crisp, would be wonderful framed. These early coastal maps are most desirable for display and bring a premium, particularly on the Cape and the islands. (VG+). $138 net. 

Other Cape areas available - please inquire.

 Wig-Wam Point Light-House , Gloucester, Mass.

Rare, Early, Letterpress Copies of Hand-Written Letters from the Secretary of the Treasury regarding Keeper Appointments, Dismissals, and other Business of the Day. 1840’s

Letterpress copy was a method in use fairly early in the neneteemth century for producing one file copy of a hand-written ink document; Thomas Jefferson made extensive use of it. The process involved dampening the surface of a freshly written original letter of document, placing over it a thin sheet of paper, and pressing this sandwich in a special press. Enough ink from the original would be absorbed by the thin paper for a copy of the letter to be made. It was possible to produce an excellent reference copy using this method. Signatures as well as the text are transferred in this method, producing one copy that is difficult to distinguish from the original. Since only one copy can be produced from an original using this method, one can be fairly certain that no other copies and possibly not even some of the originals exist today.

 Wig-Wam Point Light-House , Gloucester, Mass. November 11, 1841.

 Rare letter regarding appointment of the Light Keeper: [document - letterpress copy. 8” x 11”. 1 page.]. “[to] Hon. L. Saltonstall, Salem, Mass. November 11, 1841. Sir:             I have to acknowledge the receipt this day, of  your letter of the 8th inst with enclosures of papers favorable to the appointment of Mr. Lane as Keeper of Wig – Wam Point Light House, Mass.; all of which shall receive my most respectful consideration when a change is deemed expedient. Very respectfully, Your Obt Servent,  [signed] W [Walter J] Forward. Secy of the Trea.” #6385.   $185.

 Also:

 

[map copy]. United States Life Saving Service. SECOND LIFE SAVING DISTRICT. COAST OF MASSACHUSETTS. 1876. Large 14 ¾" x 26" map shows the 14 life-saving stations that existed at the time along the mainland coast and on Nantucket. Stations are nicely marked with a silhouette of an early station style with the appropriate station number noted. Map details the coastline nicely as well as the major railroad lines at the time. Scale 1" = 5 nautical miles. Map is from the original, issued by the U.S. Life Saving Service in 1876 and would be quite desirable for reference or for framing. C95111A. 20 lb. Black on white bond paper 14 ¾" x 26". Ideal for reference. $18.

JOURNAL OF LIGHT STATION LOVELL’S ISLAND RANGE LIGHT, Boston Harbor.

   Keeper Jennings stands next to the lighthouse. 

D-03. U. S. Lighthouse Service. JOURNAL OF LIGHT STATION FOR THE LIGHT STATION AT LOVELL’S ISLAND RANGE LIGHT, BOSTON HARBOR, MASSACHUSETTS July 1, 1911 to November 30, 1919.  Lovell’s Island Range Lights were erected in 1902 for the accommodation o f mariners coming up the South Channel of Broad Sound, Boston Harbor. The lights were placed in the charge of Keeper Alfred G. Eisener [shown in photo standing at base of tower- photo not included. Known as a poet and a writer, Keeper Eisner is best known for his book Dan, or the Gale of ‘73. In 1919 Eisener was succeeded by Charles H. Jennings, who later transferred to Boston Light. The light was extinguished in 1939 and subsequently torn down. This historic log records the careers of both keepers of this important light station. “….June 30, 1919….This page closes my Light-House life, consisting of 35 years of service, beginning at Cape Ann, ending at Lovell’s Island, Mass. Alfred G. Eisener [Keeper]….” SUPERB Original intact standard issue Light-House Journal: Hard bound folio with half-calf spine and corners. Spine is labeled in gilt embossed letters “306 – Journal of Light Station – Light-House Establishment – Department of Commerce and labor”. Volume measures 14” high by 8 ½” wide and contains 202 form pages completed in the hand of Keepers Alfred G. Eisener, and Charles Harold Jennings, covering the period from July 1, 1911 to November 30, 1919.  This type of record was kept at all stations and contained daily listings of important events, bad weather and other special notes. Each page is signed in the hand of the Keeper. Some of the special notes include Sept. 30, 1918 when the light was extinguished for the duration of the Great War, November 11, 1918 Great War practically ended today – Armistice signed, and sadly: “This page closes my light-house life, consisting of 35 years of service, beginning at Cape Ann, ending at Lovell’s Island, Mass.” signed Keeper Alfred G. Eisener. Also noted are the signatures of the District Inspector after inspection of the station with dates of inspection and various notes. Back endpapers used by keepers to record period of absences during the years. Pages are in good condition, generally clean and tight. Binding lightly soiled, with expected light wear. Hinges are worn, front wrap present but detached, back intact but worn. Spine intact and legible. Spine is clearly gilt embossed: “306 – Journal of Light Station – Light-House Establishment – Department of Commerce and labor” (VG). Reduced to $945.

11423. (souvenir dish) c.1900. An unusual, bright, decorated commemorative dish featuring a beautiful full color image of the “U. S. Life Saving Station, Salisbury Beach, Mass.”. This extremely large and rare piece is quite attractive and bears a fine, close, full color image of the Duluth-Type station located just south of the New Hampshire state line. The dish is quite bright and distinctive, and measures 7” wide, and is enhanced by a decorative gilt trim on a chocolate brown oval rim. Labeled “Made in Germany for M. F. Farwell, Amesbury, Mass.” Clean, a very detailed, pretty piece for your display with nice detail and coloration. (VG+). $48.

 

6524n. (souvenir creamer) c.1900. An unusual, bold, bright cobalt blue commemorative creamer featuring a beautiful full color image of the “U. S. Life Saving Station, Salisbury Beach, Mass.”. This fairly large piece has a large 2 3/8” full color image of the tall Duluth-type station that was constructed in 1897. The detailed image shows the entire station including the porch, boat ramp and drill pole. This item is quite attractive and unusual, with deep cobalt blue color and gilded trim. Creamer measures 3 ½” high and is clean, only light wear to gilding. A very detailed, striking piece for your display. (VG+). $88.

 

   

10121. St. Germain, Paul. Twin Lights of Thacher Island, Cape Ann. Arcadia. 2010. 128p. Soft wraps. 180 vintage photographs. Thacher Island was named for Anthony Thacher who, in 1635, lost his four children and other family members in a shipwreck during the most severe storm to ever hit the Massachusetts coast. Some time later beacons were established on the island to warn mariners away. In later times, the lighthouses there have played an important role in several wars, including the Revolutionary War and World Wars I and II, when the navy established a radio compass station and lookouts to protect the coast from enemy submarines. A ship bearing a U.S. president almost wrecked on Thacher Island, and the island was used as a witness protection site for a Mafia criminal. Twin Lights of Thacher Island, Cape Ann captures the history, adventures, and intimate stories from over 200 years of lighthouse keepers living on the island, including how the two towers were built and how scientific discoveries were applied to improve the lights over the years. This interesting volume draws images from public and private collections, most never before published. Superb photographs of the station, keepers, equipment  and more, well worth it. (M). $21.99. 

 

6697. Thompson, Frederic L., THE LIGHTSHIPS OF CAPE COD. 1996. 2nd printing. 112 pp. Soft wraps. Signed by the author. Illustrated with over 93 beautifully detailed photographs. Much sought after, this scarce volume chronicles the history of the lightships in this vital area. Wonderfully detailed b/w photographs enhance the author's vivid description of the history and life aboard these vessels. One of the only volumes ever written exclusively on this subject, this fine work will make a fine addition to any library (M). $14.95. (Wholesale discounts available)

29313. Ryder, Richard G. Seashore Sentinel: The Old Harbor Lifesaving Station on Cape Cod. West Barnstable. 2009. 120p. Soft wraps. This latest account of the history and life at Cape Cod’s Old Harbor Life-Saving Station updates his older work - OLD HARBOR STATION CAPE COD – now long out of print but still in demand. This extremely worthwhile account of the life-savers at the Old Harbor Life Saving Station in Chatham , Mass., is a one of a kind, chronicling not only much of the wrecks and work of the life savers, but particularly looking at the equipment issued to such a station at the time and the lives of the men living and working there. Includes many photographs, wreck accounts, life at the station, moving the station and much more. A most interesting chronicle. (M). $12.95.

24400. na. MASSACHUSETTS ON THE SEA 1630 – 1930. Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. 1931. Second Edition. 10 ½” x 7 7/8".  32 p. Stiff wraps. Number 261 (number is stamped in red) of a Second Edition Authorized by The Commonwealth of Massachusetts and issued "In commemoration of the enterprise of the seaman of the MASSACHUSETTS BAY COLONY and in recognition of the maritime accomplishments of their descendants.". Rare title includes a number of accounts including: Colonial Enterprise, Independence and the Far East, The Ice Trade and Whaling, The Clipper Ship Era, Since the Civil War, The Humane Society of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts,  Exhibits, U.S.S. Constitution. Photo plates include: Boston in 1768, A shipwreck - Ship ULYSSES of Salem, A Famous Privateer of Salem, an engraving of four ships at sea, long boat in the foreground, whale tail, Donald McKay's "Sovereign of the Seas", A Gloucester Fisherman, A Seven-Masted Ship; "Thomas W. Lawson; 5,200 tons built at Fore River, 1902,  Airplane Carrier "Lexington" , The Shipwrecked Barque "Salute",  "Charles M. Morgan", Now permanently preserved as "Whaling Enshrined" at South Dartmouth,  (1) U.S.S. Constitution,  (2) U.S.S. Constitution,  View of the action between the U.S. Frigate Constitution and the British Ship Levant J. Ayers, A Naval Engagement of 1812. Contents clean and tight, covers light soiling. Endpapers are clean, with a two page pictorial green and cream-colored map of "Massachusetts On the Sea", the Legend shows Motor Highways and Life-Saving Stations. (VG).  $48. 

 CLEARANCE PRICED at Only $7.95 each:

Roberts, Bruce and Ray Jones. Over 80 color and b/w photographs. Soft wraps. Scarce early editions of this author’s earlier works covers the lighthouses along the coasts of the United States . The superb narrative and exquisite photography have made this lighthouse series repeated best sellers. Many signed by the author. (M).  

NORTHERN LIGHTHOUSES. New Brunswick to the Jersey Shore . 1990. 127p. (1)

772. NEW ENGLAND LIGHTHOUSES. Bay of Fundy to Long Island Sound. 1996. 101p. (3)

2488. Kobbe, Gustav. HEROES OF PEACE – A Series of Authentic Instances of Heroism in Every-Day Life. Babylon. c.1920. Inscribed to “Gustak Kobbie 2nd from his Grandmother 1924”. Special work, self published by the author, which includes  five of his past works published in The Century Magazine: HEROISM IN THE LIGHTHOUSE SERVICE. A Description of Life on Matinicus Rock. The Century Magazine. 1897. 12p. Illustrated with 12 very nice engravings, this article describes the life of Abby Burgess and her family at the Matinicus Rock Light Station including her heroism in the winter gale of 1856. Later Abby married Captain Grant and continued her service at Matinicus and later at White Head Light. Most interesting. Illustrations include Keeper Frederick T. Hatch, the only recipient of the Gold Bar for Heroism, Abby Burgess, and more; HEROES OF THE LIFE-SAVING SERVICE"  The Century Magazine. c.1898. 8p. Excellent descriptions of the life of the life-savers and the work that they perform at various stations across the country. With a nice full-page plate of “The Life Line” by Winslow Homer; EVERY-DAY HEROISM. 7 p.; HEROES OF THE RAILWAY SERVICE. 7 p.; HEROES OF PEACE – Volunteer Life-Savers. 7 p. Includes the volunteer life-savers of the Massachusetts Humane Society, Life Saving Service crews, and more. A most interesting piece especially bound by the author himself. Some wear, slightly brittle, one plate loose. (G+).      $164.  

 

Nominated for the 2008 Foundation for Coast Guard History book award:

27268. Claflin, James W. HISTORIC NANTUCKET: SURFSIDE LIFE-SAVING STATION - A History of Nantucket’s Life-Saving Stations. Volume I. Worcester. 2007. 79 p. Soft wraps. Special edition, signed and numbered of 500, includes pasted in wood chip from Surfside Life-Saving Station. Historic Nantucket: Surfside Life-Saving Station is one of a continuing series of booklets that tell the story of historic lighthouses, lightships and life-saving stations along the New England Coast . The Nantucket coastline has long been one of the most dangerous areas along the New England coast. Over the years four life-saving stations and eight Massachusetts Humane Society stations stood guard over the island’s shores, standing ready to combat the seas in an effort to rescue shipwrecked mariners in their time of need. With thousands of vessels plying the dangerous waters, the chance of a shipping disaster was always great. Hundreds of shipwrecks did indeed occur off the coast with startling losses. Using descriptive text and a variety of vintage images from private as well as museum collections, we get a rare glimpse into the history of the area and the lives of these dedicated government men and women. Author James Claflin combines an extensively researched text with his exquisite collection of vintage photographs, many previously unpublished, to tell the story of this important piece of history. (M). $8.95.

28114. Drew, Bernard A., The Berkshire Photo Album – Historic Images 1870’s – 1990’s. Pittsfield. 1999. 128p. A wonderful collection of some 440 images from The Berkshire Eagle’s extensive archive, this book provides a look at life, love, and labor during the last century and a half in the two cities and thirty towns of Massachusetts’ western-most county. Many of the views are published here for the first time and feature people, places and events both well remembered and long-forgotten. Excellent New England reading. (M). $16.95

    

2789. THEY HAD TO GO OUT – True Stories of America’s Coastal Life Savers From The Pages of “Wreck & Rescue Journal”. Gwinn. 2007. Forward by Fred Stonehouse. 208p. Soft wraps. They Had to Go Out represents an unprecedented gathering works of talented historians working in the field of Life Saving Service history, taken from the pages of Wreck & Rescue Journal. Included are the writings of Ralph Shanks, Fred Stonehouse, Dennis L. Noble, Maurice Gibbs, and John Galluzzo.The stories reach from Massachusetts to Michigan to Washington, covering some of the accounts of bravado and selflessness of the men of the U. S. Life Saving Service, shedding more light on perhaps the most exciting aspect of America’s maritime history. (M). Published at $16.95. Our price $15.95.

Special Purchase!  We recently purchased the author’s remaining stock and can pass on the savings to you:

20230. Farson, Robert H., TWELVE MEN DOWN – Massachusetts Sea Rescues. Yarmouth Port.2000. 246p. 191 photos and illustrations. In Colonial Days Massachusetts turned to the sea for her livelihood. With the growth of coastal and deepwater fleets, many trips ended in disaster. The loss of life was so great that in the late 1700’s the Massachusetts Humane Society was formed. Their work up to World War II, and the work of its successor the U. S. Life-Saving Service, are detailed in this wonderful new work. From Martha’s Vineyard and Cuttyhunk, to Nantucket, Cape Cod and up the coast to  Salisbury Beach, there were small stations with surfboats and breeches buoy apparatus. This is a book about rescues near the coast by men who rowed small boats into mountainous waves, many in bitterly cold weather. Thousands of sailors were saved by these intrepid men and their story of selfless dedication comes alive in Mr. Farson’s work. Nicely illustrated with numerous vintage photographs. (M). (Published at $36.)  Special Purchase Price. $19.95. 

 

2338b. Grant, John. STAYING AT A LIGHTHOUSE - America's Most Romantic Lighthouse Inns. Guilford. 2005. 104 p. Soft wraps. New Updated edition. Whether they were abandoned long ago or still stand as beacons in the fog, hundreds of lighthouses decorate the beautiful shores of North America. But only a few invite people to stay the night. Staying at a Lighthouse visits these unique overnight havens, offering a personal tour of the most sought-after landmarks in the country. A few of them operate as grand bed-and-breakfast inns. Others provide a more rustic experience, offering guests a retreat from the hustle and bustle of their daily lives. Still others allow visitors to assume the role of lighthouse keeper for a short time. But they all provide an experience that is romantic, renewing, and above all, memorable. Readers can step back in time at these and many other coastal towers: • Heceta Head Lighthouse, Oregon • East Brother Light Station, California • Sand Hills Lighthouse Inn, Michigan • Rose Island Lighthouse, Rhode Island • Saugerties Lighthouse, New York • Race Point Lighthouse, Massachusetts • Monomoy Point Lighthouse, Massachusetts • The Keeper's House Inn, Maine Information provided in each profile includes history of the lighthouse and the area, background of the present-day keepers, and a description of the accommodations and the guest experience, plus all pertinent practical contact details. (M). $11.95.  

28129. Galluzzo, John. Lifesavers of the South Shore – A History of Rescue and Loss. History Press. 2008. DJ. 128p. However cruelly the rocks of Massachusetts 's South Shore have treated storm-driven sailors, there can be no questioning the selflessness and courage of the keepers and surfmen who played host to the no man's land between frozen beach and gale-tossed sea. Read John Galluzzo's enthralling account of the Life-Saving Service and meet legends like Joshua James, whose surfboat, Nantasket, once saved twenty-nine men from six boats in a grueling thirty-six hours. Chart a course through the service's history, from its humble beginning in the refuge huts built after the American Revolution until its absorption into the U.S. Coast Guard in the twentieth century. (M). $19.99.

2074. Clifford, J. Candace and Mary Louise Clifford. NINETEENTH-CENTURY LIGHTS Historic Images of American Lighthouses. Alexandria, Va. 2000. 295p. If you only purchase one book this year, this one should be your choice. For the first time these renown authors bring together hundreds of large, detailed images of early American light stations from the files of the National Archives. Superbly arranged and printed, this is a beautiful volume and well worth the publisher's list price. Hard cover $34.95. Soft cover $24.95.  

We have bought out the author/ publisher’s remaining stock, only 22 Left! Wholesale pricing available:

20148. Hathaway, Charles B. FROM HIGHLAND TO HAMMERHEAD: THE COAST GUARD AND CAPE COD. Chatham, Mass: Self Published, 2000. 256pp, including a 10 page index. Wraps. Fine 1st Edition. Signed by Author. 8vo - over 7¾" - 9¾". Black and white photos. This is a brand new book written by a retired Coast Guard captain who served 30 years on 6 Coast Guard cutters. The book covers over 200 years, from the establishment of Highland Light in 1797 to the present. There is information on lightships, lighthouses, Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Life-Saving Service, individual cutters and more. The author has researched the topic quite extensively and includes a nice bibliography, as well as extensive list of individuals he has interviewed or corresponded with. Highly recommended by Ken Black of Shore Village Museum, who notes "…outstanding work….one of the best I have personally owned and strongly recommend…." Only 1000 copies of this book were printed. (M). $13.95

23113. Theriault, Albert A. and Elizabeth A. Theriault, NED'S POINT LIGHTHOUSE, MATTAPOISETT, MASSACHUSETTS: A CHRONICLE AND RELATED INFORMATION. Ned's Point Publishing, 2002. 39 p. Spiral bound. The lighthouse at Ned's (or Ned ) Point, at the northeast side of the entrance to Mattapoisett Harbor on Buzzard's Bay, was built in 1837 using rubblestone from a nearby beach. Its 11 lamps and reflectors displayed a fixed white light 41 feet above sea level. In 1923 the keeper's house was removed, loaded on a barge and floated across Buzzards Bay to Wing's Neck Light in Bourne, where it remains today. This thoroughly presented history covers both the station from its beginning, its keepers and the Lighthouse Establishment and some of its equipment. Nicely done, worth reading. Thoroughly illustrated with photos and diagrams. (M). $19.95.

22510. Marcus, John. LIGHTHOUSES OF NEW ENGLAND – Your Guide to Lighthouses of Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut and Long Island. Stillwater. 2001. 160 p. A Pictorial Discovery Guide. DJ. A fresh look at the history and technological evolution of lighthouses in the area, the development of apparatus, architecture, construction and maintenance on their remote sites, the daily life of the keepers and much more. The author presents an exciting history illustrated with stunning photographs, historical anecdotes, architectural details and local legends. Lavishly illustrated, an excellent text on the subject and guide for the area. (M). Hard Cover $29.95 Soft Cover $19.95.

20179. Freitas, Fred and Dave Ball. WARNINGS IGNORED! The Story of the Portland Gale November, 1898. Self published. 1995. 97p. Soft wraps. With numerous vintage photographs. On November 26 and 27, 1898, a storm of epic proportions struck New England and wreaked havoc all along the coastline, particularly along the South Shore and Cape Cod. For almost 100 years this gale would be the measure against which all subsequent storms would be compared. During this storm the Life-Saving Service, Humane Society and mariners all along the coast would be severely tested as countless vessels would be driven upon the rocks. In this comprehensive work the authors tell not only the story of the ill-fated steamship Portland, but also the story of all of the towns along the coast during the gale, and particularly of the life-saving efforts. Most interesting. (M). $19.95.

C24128. THE HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS . REPORT 1917-1918. Boston . 1918. 94p. Excellent report includes large fold-out map of the “Life Saving Stations of the Humane Society”. In addition, includes  of all sixty five life saving stations and boat houses with their keepers, List of Persons to Whom Awards were Granted 1916 to 1918, sample award certificates, Instructions to the Captains of the Life Saving Stations [includes apparatus drills and operation, Instructions to Seamen, Instructions for Saving Drowning Persons, Restoring Persons Apparently Drowned, General Summary of the Work of the Society, Equipment of Stations, Act of Incorporation, By Laws, List of Officers and Trustees of the Society, List of Members, a detailed List of Awards Granted 1786 – 11918. A tremendous amount of information about this important early predecessor to the Life-Saving Service. (Photocopy $20).

6744aa, ff,ii. [Topographic Plate]. COAST LINES: PART OF NANTUCKET MASS. US Geological Survey. c.1908. Size 10”h x 16”. Double page plate from early report. Beautiful, early, three color topographic map shows the important contours and features of the area including the Lighthouses and Life-Saving Stations, as well as roads, harbor and important features. This map includes most of the island, from Miacomet Pond and Reed Pond east and north and south to the extremity. U. S. Life-Saving Stations include Surfside, Muskeget, Coskata and Madaket. Lighthouses include Bug Lights, Brant Point Light, Great Point Light and Sankaty Head Light. Also includes harbor, shoals and bars, and much more. Plate is quite desirable for framing. Unusually clean and crisp, a beautiful piece. These early coastal maps are most desirable for display and bring a premium, particularly on the Cape and the islands. (F).  $144 net.

Whaling...

25184. Senate Doc. No. 12. THE DESCRIPTION OF PAPERS DEEMED NECESSARY TO BE PRIVIDED BY LAW FOR THE USE AND PROTECTION OF AMERICAN VESSELS ENGAGED IN THE WHALE FISHERIES. December 27, 1839. 16 p. Report examines information provided by Nantucket, New Bedford and other whaling captains with regard to legalities of entering ports and other issues of the day. $14.

 2012. Sanderson, Ivan T. FOLLOW THE WHALE. Boston . 1956. 423 p. DJ. (VG).  $18

2408. Chippendale, Captain H. A., SAILS AND WHALES. Boston . 1951. 232 p. DJ. (VG-). $16

2406. Whipple, A. B. C., YANKEE WHALERS IN THE SOUTH SEAS . New York . 1954. 304 p. $18

2405. Robotti , Frances Diane. WHALING AND OLD SALEM . New York . 1962. 292 p. DJ.  $16

2404. Haley, Nelson Cole [harpooner in the Charles W. Morgan 1849-1853] . WHALE HUNT – The Narrative of a Voyage. New York . 1948. 304 p. DJ.  $26

3164l. Kobbe', Gustav. "LIFE ON THE (Nantucket) SOUTH SHOAL LIGHT-SHIP". 11pp. Century Magazine, Vol. XLII. August 1891. This often quoted article is one of the very few ever written describing the life on these early light vessels, based on the author’s visit in 1891. One "old whaling captain told me that the loneliest thing he had ever seen at sea was a polar bear floating on a piece of ice in the Arctic Ocean; the next loneliest object to that had been the South Shoal Lightship….and it pitched and rolled such that even an old whaleman… felt ‘squamish’." Excellent descriptions of the crews and the life on board. Includes nine very nice engravings. Disbound, without wraps. Clean, crisp. $48 net.

  

11337. Cann, Donald J., John J. Galluzzo, Capt. W. Russell Webster, USCG (Ret.). The Coast Guard in Massachusetts. Arcadia. 2011. 128p. Soft wraps. 180 vintage photographs. The Coast Guard’s deepest roots run through Massachusetts, the ancestral home to three of the five predecessor agencies that make up the service today. The Coast Guard formed in 1915 and since that time has served the citizens of the Bay State at lifeboat stations, air stations, lighthouses, LORAN stations, and radio stations, as well as on lightships and cutters of all sizes. They have protected the Massachusetts coastline during numerous wars, performing some of the most dramatic rescues in American history—from the Pendleton to the Argo Merchant to the Etrusco and more. The story of the Coast Guard in Massachusetts is one of heroism, honor, respect, and devotion to duty. Nicely told by this trio of respected Coast Guard authors. This interesting volume draws images from public and private collections, most never before published. Superb photographs of the stations, the men, equipment  and more, well worth it for the photos alone. (M). $21.99.

27161a. Lighthouse Service. LOCAL LIGHT LIST NEW ENGLAND COAST. Maine to Massachusetts. First and Second Lighthouse District. Wash. 1928. 177- p. Soft wraps. Covers the coast and harbors from the St. Croix River, Maine south to Westport Harbor, Massachusetts. Includes descriptions of lights and light vessels, buoys, fog signals as well as other important information. Includes location, height above water, distance seen, candlepower, description of structure, and more. Overall in unusually good condition for an early list, covers nicely intact with only light wear, contents clean and tight, a very good copy. Very difficult to find these early lists and well worth the search. (VG+)     $36 net.

27161b. Lighthouse Service. LOCAL LIGHT LIST NEW ENGLAND COAST. Maine to Massachusetts. First and Second Lighthouse District. Wash. 1929. 182- p. (VG+). $36.

27161c. Lighthouse Service. LOCAL LIGHT LIST NEW ENGLAND COAST. Maine to Massachusetts. First and Second Lighthouse District. Wash. 1930. 180- p. (VG+). $36.

27161d. Lighthouse Service. LOCAL LIGHT LIST NEW ENGLAND COAST. Maine to Massachusetts. First and Second Lighthouse District. Wash. 1931. 178- p. (VG+). $36.

27161e. Lighthouse Service. LOCAL LIGHT LIST NEW ENGLAND COAST. Maine to Massachusetts. First and Second Lighthouse District. Wash. 1932. 177- p. (VG+). $36.

27161f. Lighthouse Service. LOCAL LIGHT LIST NEW ENGLAND COAST. Maine to Massachusetts. First and Second Lighthouse District. Wash. 1933. 177- p. (VG+). $36.

27161g. Lighthouse Service. LOCAL LIGHT LIST NEW ENGLAND COAST. Maine to Massachusetts. First and Second Lighthouse District. Wash. 1934. 179- p. (VG+). $36.

27161h. Lighthouse Service. LOCAL LIGHT LIST NEW ENGLAND COAST. Maine to Massachusetts. First and Second Lighthouse District. Wash. 1935. 183- p. (VG+). $36.

27161i. Lighthouse Service. LOCAL LIGHT LIST NEW ENGLAND COAST. Maine to Massachusetts. First and Second Lighthouse District. Wash. 1936. 182- p. (VG+). $36.

6332-17. Lighthouse Service. LOCAL LIGHT LIST NEW ENGLAND COAST OF THE UNITED STATES. Maine to Massachusetts . Wash. 1933. 177 p. Soft wraps. Covers the coast from Whitlocks Mill , Maine to Buzzards Bay . Includes descriptions of lights and light vessels, buoys, fog signals as well as other important information. Includes location, height above water, distance seen, candlepower, description of structure, and more. Overall in unusually good condition for an early list, covers nicely intact with only light soiling, contents clean and tight, a good copy. Very difficult to find these early lists and well worth the search. (VG+)   $48.

3142c. Lighthouse Service. LIST OF BEACONS, BUOYS, STAKES, SPINDLES AND ALL OTHER DAY MARKS IN THE SECOND LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT 1879. Wash. 1879. 64p. Soft wraps. Includes all of the coastline of the Second Lighthouse District embracing the seacoasts, bays, harbors, and rivers, from Hampton Harbor, New Hampshire, to Gooseberry Point, Massachusetts, including Nantucket and Vineyard Sounds, Buzzards Bay, and tributaries. Includes descriptions of lights and light vessels, buoys, fog signals as well as other important information. Includes location, height above water, distance seen, candlepower, description of structure, and more. Some soiling and chipping to wraps, some foxing, contents unusually clean and intact. Very difficult to find these early lists and well worth the search. Excellent resource. (VG-). $88.

SR-452. Lighthouse Service. LIST OF BEACONS, BUOYS, STAKES, SPINDLES AND ALL OTHER DAY MARKS IN THE SECOND LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT 1886. Wash. 1886. 64p. Soft wraps. Includes all of the coastline of the Second Lighthouse District embracing the seacoasts, bays, harbors, and rivers, from Hampton Harbor, New Hampshire, to Gooseberry Point, Massachusetts, including Nantucket and Vineyard Sounds, Buzzards Bay, and tributaries. Includes descriptions of lights and light vessels, buoys, fog signals as well as other important information. Includes location, height above water, distance seen, candlepower, description of structure, and more. Some soiling and chipping to wraps, some foxing, contents unusually clean and intact. Very difficult to find these early lists and well worth the search. Excellent resource. (VG-). $78.

6332-54. Lighthouse Service. LIST OF BEACONS, BUOYS AND DAYMARKS IN THE SECOND LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. 1901. Wash. 1901. 121 p. Soft wraps. Includes all of the coastline of the Second Lighthouse District from Hampton Harbor, New Hampshire to Warren Point, Rhode Island. Includes descriptions of lights and light vessels, buoys, fog signals as well as other important information. Includes location, height above water, distance seen, candlepower, description of structure, and more. Only light soiling to wraps, moderate chipping, front wrap detached, contents unusually clean and intact, tight. Very difficult to find these early lists and well worth the search. Excellent resource. (VG-). $112.

6332nn. Lighthouse Service. LOCAL [LIGHT AND] BUOY LIST [INCLUDING LIGHTS, FOG SIGNALS, BUOYS, AND DAYMARKS] MASSACHUSETTS. Wash. 1918. 68 p. Soft wraps.  Includes all of the coastline of Massachusetts. Includes descriptions of lights and light vessels, buoys, fog signals as well as other important information. Includes location, height above water, distance seen, candlepower, description of structure, and more. Overall in unusually good condition for an early list, covers nicely intact with only a few chips and some staining, contents crisp and clean, tight, a very good copy. Very difficult to find these early lists and well worth the search. (VG) $38 net.

 

4221. U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey. UNITED STATES COAST PILOT. Atlantic Coast - Section A. St. Croix River to Cape Cod . (1950) Fifth Edition. Hard cover. 410pp. Unusually good condition, clean, tight. (VG). $18.

450. U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey. UNITED STATES COAST PILOT. Atlantic Coast. Section A. St. Croix River to Cape Cod. Fifth (1950) Edition. Hard cover. 410pp. $12.

4434. U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey. UNITED STATES COAST PILOT. Atlantic Coast. Section A. St. Croix River to Cape Cod. Second Edition. 1927. 356pp. Covers soiled but tight. Includes listing of Coast Guard and Mass. Humane Society Stations, Instructions to Mariners in case of Shipwreck, etc. (G) $22.

 

Light-House Service District Maps

10345. [Light-House Service District Maps]. U. S. Light-House Service. c. June 30, 1891. A rare opportunity to obtain an official U. S. Light-House Service District charts of all district aids to navigation as bound in their Annual Reports. Normally these charts are included within the Annual Reports and we are unable to offer them separately but we have found a lot of disbound charts in good condition. These are fine for matting and framing for your wall. Charts detail the entire Light-House District in three colors, and show all lighthouses, beacons, light vessels, fog signals, lighted buoys, Light-House Depots, and more. Charts average 8 ½” x 10” in size and are overall clean, may have very light stain,  with only one light original fold, light age toning. A rare chance to obtain the chart of your District for framing. (VG).

FIRST LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. From the head of navigation on the St. Croix River , Maine to Hampton Harbor , New Hampshire . Includes all of Maine and New Hampshire .  $44.

SECOND LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. From Hampton Harbor , New Hampshire to Elisha Ledge off Warren , Rhode Island . Includes all of Cape Cod, Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard . $44.

THIRD LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. From Elisha Ledge off Warren , Rhode Island to and including a point on the coast of New Jersey opposite Shrewsbury Rocks.  $44.

PART OF THE THIRD LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. Includes all of Lake Champlain . $18.

FOURTH LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. From a point on the coast of New Jersey opposite Shrewsbury Rocks to and including Metomkin Inlet, Virginia. Includes New Jersey , Delaware , Maryland and Virginia .  $44.

FIFTH LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. From Metomkin Inlet , Virginia to and including New River Inlet , North Carolina .  $44.

SIXTH LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. From New River Inlet , North Carolina to and including Jupiter Inlet Light-Station, Florida . Includes part of North Carolina , all of South Carolina , Georgia , and Florida between the limits named. $44.

SEVENTH LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. From a point south of Jupiter Inlet Light-Station to Perdido Entrance , Florida . Includes all of the sea and Gulf Coasts of Florida .  $44.

EIGHTH LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. From Perdido Entrance , Florida to the Rio Grande, the southern boundary of Texas . Includes all of the Gulf Coast and lower Mississippi River .  $44.

NINTH LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. Includes all of Lake Michigan, Green Bay and tributary waters.   $44.

TENTH LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. Extends from the mouth of the St. Regis River , St. Lawrence River , New York to and including Grassy Island, Detroit River, Michigan. Includes the waters of Lakes Erie and Ontario , and the upper part of the St. Lawrence, the Niagara, and the lower part of the Detroit rivers.  $44.

ELEVENTH LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. Extends from the Grassy Island Light Station, Detroit River , Michigan to the head of Lake Superior including the waters of Lakes St. Clair, Huron, and Superior and the upper part of the Detroit River , the St. Clair and St. Mary’s Rivers, and part of the Straits of Mackinac.   $44.

TWELFTH LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. From the boundary between California and Mexico to the boundary between California and Oregon .   $44.

THIRTEENTH LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. From the boundary between California and Oregon to the northern boundary of the United States and includes Alaska . Includes all of Oregon and Washington , and Alaskan waters.   $44.

U. S. Light-House Service District Charts - Large Size

20178. [Light-House District Maps]. U. S. Light-House Service. c. 1900-1908. A rare opportunity to obtain an official U. S. Light-House Service District charts of all district aids to navigation as bound in their Annual Reports. Normally these charts are included within the Annual Reports and we are unable to offer them separately but we have found a lot of disbound charts in wonderful condition. These are perfect for matting and framing for your wall. Charts detail the entire Light-House District in three colors, and show all lighthouses, beacons, light vessels, fog signals, lighted buoys, Light-House Depots, and more. Charts average about 16" x 20" in size and are clean and crisp, with only light original folds. A rare chance to obtain the chart of your District, ideal for framing. (VG+).

UNITED STATES. Outline Map shows all of the United States Light-House Districts with the more important lights noted. Includes all of continental United States and Alaska. $88.

FIRST LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. From the head of navigation on the St. Croix River, Maine to Hampton Harbor, New Hampshire. Includes all of Maine and New Hampshire. $88.

SECOND LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. From Hampton Harbor, New Hampshire to Elisha Ledge off Warren, Rhode Island. Includes all of Cape Cod, Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. $88.

THIRD LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. From Elisha Ledge off Warren, Rhode Island to and including a point on the coast of New Jersey opposite Shrewsbury Rocks. $88.

PART OF THE THIRD LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. Includes all of Lake Champlain. $44.

FOURTH LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. From a point on the coast of New Jersey opposite Shrewsbury Rocks to and including Metomkin Inlet, Virginia. Includes New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland and Virginia. $88.

FIFTH LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. From Metomkin Inlet, Virginia to and including New River Inlet, North Carolina. $88.

SIXTH LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. From New River Inlet, North Carolina to and including Jupiter Inlet Light-Station, Florida. Includes part of North Carolina, all of South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida between the limits named. $88.

SEVENTH LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. From a point south of Jupiter Inlet Light-Station to Perdido Entrance, Florida. Includes all of the sea and Gulf Coasts of Florida. $88.

EIGHTH LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. From Perdido Entrance, Florida to the southern boundary of Texas. Includes all of the Gulf Coast and lower Mississippi River. $88.

NINTH LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. Includes all of Lake Michigan, Green Bay and tributary waters. $88.

TENTH LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. Extends from the mouth of the St. Regis River, St. Lawrence River, New York to the mouth of the River Rouge, Detroit River, Michigan. Includes the waters of Lakes Erie and Ontario, and the upper part of the St. Lawrence, the Niagara, and the lower part of the Detroit rivers. $78.

ELEVENTH LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. Extends from the mouth of the River Rouge, Detroit River, Michigan to the westerly end of Lake Superior including the waters of Lake St, Clair, Huron, and Superior and the upper part of the Detroit River, the St. Clair and St. Mary’s Rivers, and part of the Straits of Mackinac. $78.

TWELFTH LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. From the boundary between California and Mexico to the boundary between California and Oregon. $88.

THIRTEENTH LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. From the boundary between California and Oregon to the northern boundary of the United States and includes Alaska. Includes all of Oregon and Washington, and Alaskan waters. $88.

FOURTEENTH LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. Extends on the Ohio River from Pittsburgh, Pa., to Cairo, Ill., on the Tennessee River 255 miles, and on the Great Kanawha 73 miles. $54.

FIFTEENTH LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. Extends on the Mississippi River from the head of navigation to Cairo, Ill., and on the Missouri River to Kansas City, Mo., and on the Illinois River from LaSalle to its mouth. $54.

SIXTEENTH LIGHT-HOUSE DISTRICT. Extends on the Mississippi River from the head of navigation to Cairo, Ill., to New Orleans, La., and on the Red River. $54.

LIGHT-HOUSE CHART. Includes West Indies between the Mona and Virgin Passages comprising Puerto Rico and dependencies, and all of the Hawaiian Islands. $38.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

More items added daily. 

 

See also our recently updated Commemorative China page

Procedure to order items:

1. I suggest that you call us or email to check on availability of any item that you would like other than recent books. As items go quite quickly, please call and leave a message to reserve items that you would like. I will return your call, hold the items and await your letter or credit card information. We will also weigh the items and advise postage. 

2. You may then call or email credit card information, or forward a check in the mail.

Most items are mailed US Priority Mail or UPS. Additional information on our "Ordering Page".

Massachusetts residents must add 6.25% sales tax.

 

Page updated November 21, 2022 .

How to reach us:
Kenrick A. Claflin & Son Nautical Antiques
1227 Pleasant Street, Worcester, MA 01602 

Phone (508) 792-6627

All text and illustrations on web site Ó James W. Claflin . 11/21/2022 All rights reserved. Use prohibited without written permission.

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